THE PAST FEW DAYS AFTER GLADYS' DEATH.

I have been having sleepless nights lately. I go to bed and wake up in the middle of the night, and I think about nothing else but Gladys. Therefore, it is comforting when I get calls or emails from her children. They have all written to thank me sincerely for creating this blog as a forum to keep their mother's spirit and image alive, not only in these very tough times, but FOREVER! They have all made postings to this blog in the comments section but I intend lifting some of those comments into the main posting area for family and friends to read. It all tells you how they are feeling at this time. Horrible! Very sad, indeed!

Apart from close family, I have not had the courage to call any of my friends or extended family. Gladys' children come first, then my siblings and immediate family. The only person outside my immediate family whom I have sent an email to is Dotsei Malor of the UN, my very close friend. Like Eli, I was intimately involved in the purchase of his home also, so it was natural for him to call the moment he got my email. Dotsei, thank you!

I also got a call from my brother John in London, from my brother Wizzy in Ghana, and my cousin David Srogboe-Korshi in Ghana. Guys, I thank you! I got a call from my niece, Akpene, on Friday evening to discuss issues relating to funeral arrangements, et cetera. She had sent an email during the day alerting me about her call. I listened carefully to what she had to say and offered my advice and opinion. By the time it was all over, we were both on the same page, in total agreement as to what to do to send off their Mom in a dignified way. That was very respectful of her and I thank her!

I am doing my best to stay strong and not to lose it completely. In this regard, my sister Lucy has remained my rock! She is a tremendous resource for me in these tough times. Her advice is very soothing. Her strength and maturity are an inspiration for me. Sister Lucy, thank you. I love you! Yes, I have to stay strong and guide Gladys' children in these very difficult times to the point where we all travel to Ghana for their Mom's funeral and burial. I will be strong guys, I promise!

My wife, Hurshe, has been very supportive. She has noticed I am not the same, and she keeps asking repeatedly, "Can I do anything for you?" and I keep resisting, "No, no, no!" Of course, she knows how sad I am deep inside, but there is nothing she can do to stop it! She has been very instrumental in posting all the pictures to this blog so far. Hurshe, thank you!

I intend making a few phone calls today, Sunday, just to keep away from thinking too much. I don't know whom I am going to call yet but I know I will get to it.