HER SON, ELI, CAPTURES THE REAL GLADYS!

As I reflect on Mama’s passing, so many memories flash back. Some making me smile, while others bring unbearable grief.

I recall how she and May kicked off a great relationship, even though they had not met in person. I recall how she always, always asks me “Eli, are you taking good care of your wife?” It meant so much that she always asked that question and I will never forget those words. I recall how she never forgets my birthday, even when I forget myself. I recall when I was little and she said to me: Eli, when you grow up, you should become a priest, a teacher or a doctor. She explained that Jesus was a preacher, a teacher and a healer. And when I become none of those, she loved me anyway. And when our daughter was born, Mama was first on the phone to say, she should become a nun, though I’m sure Nuna has her own ideas, or soon will. Mama was an idealist, and one with big dreams, mega plans and creative imagination, even after retirement. We all encouraged her to take things easy and enjoy her retirement and grandchildren, but her energy level simply won’t allow. She kept going strong.

Mama was a woman of great knowledge and substance. She was well accomplished, over and beyond many women, and yes, men too. She inspired us every step of the way to reach for the stars. She was a shining example that we all had no reason to risk out for new frontiers and achieve. I recall when I was in grade five, still with a year to go to secondary school. Mama quickly enrolled me in holiday classes so I could skip grade six enter secondary school immediately. She meant to do it, and she got it done!!! Not just for me, but also for Divine, a family friend’s child with whom I went to grade school. And when our youngest sibling, Makafui, was in grade three. Mama pulled off a real stunner, that left even those of us who knew her utterly speechless. She succeeded in preparing Makafui for secondary school, making her skip grades four, five and six. Such was the upbringing she gave us. Nothing was impossible for this trailblazer that we had, and STILL have as our one and only Mama.

MY Mama was a giant, both literarily and figuratively. I recall how most of the people who knew her called her simply Mama. Even adult men, who were her seniors. Sometimes, I felt funny when I got older and she would send me to deliver a message to her work colleague or priest or someone of her peer. I usually pondered over how I would call her to the recipient of the message, knowing well my Mama was not quite their Mama. I would arrive and say “Mama says……” And they would respond “Tell Mama ……” How else would I call her, when everyone else called her simply Mama? Because she really was one of a kind.

Mama, we love you and we miss you dearly. Though you’ve moved on, you continue to live, forever, in our thoughts and our hearts. May you rest in PERFECT PEACE.