BEREAVEMENT. #160

Dear Daddy,

I thought you were strict, we all thought so, my siblings and I. We secretly hated your high-handedness, we thought it was because you were a security agent. Little did we know that was your best quality, your discipline helped us through life as we navigated our ways in a world rotten with declining morals and values. We didn't cherish the values and ideals you instilled in us till after your death.

The one thing that still leaves a scar that can never heal is the fact that we were at loggerheads when you died. We disagreed on a minor issue, and we never did resolve it till you died.

Your death came as a shock, I was preparing to come and apologize before your death, my stubborn behavior was one of the many traits I inherited from you. I would have done the needful earlier.

You used to fight with us for any misbehaviors and fight harder for us when need be. I know it's okay to tear up while writing this, it just doesn't make it easier. It's been almost ten years since you died and I still can't get over it.

Perhaps I'm being selfish to think I miss you the most, my siblings do a lot, and your wife, my mother the one you planned to spend your retirement years with is lonely. She's so lonely she hasn't been the same since your death. I can't even pretend to imagine I know how she feels. You were together for many years, and it still feels shocking whenever I remember how she didn't believe it at first. You weren't sick or anything, you just slumped and that was the end. Maybe she could have at least prepared for the inevitability of death if you had been sick, but you were not.

I'm comforted by the fact that you met your grandchildren and we at least shared a lot of happy moments. You were present for my matriculation, convocation, wedding, naming ceremony of my child, and many other happy celebrations.

If there's one thing I could change, it's to reconcile with you before you die. I take solace in the fact that we love you, but God loves you more. Your legacy as a loving husband, father, and grandfather continues to live on. We still grieve your loss though. Rest in power, Alagbe Zachariah Ajani.

IMAGE CREDITS BY ME.