Two years later, you live on

November 7, 2023

Two Years Without You

Two years ago, a chain broke. In your sleep, you quietly departed from this life.

It has been two years since you left us. Sometimes, it still does not feel real. I fondly remember you and thank God for the time we had together. In life, you made a profound impact on us, and in death, you continue to influence and inspire.

A Father Like No Other

You were the greatest father I could have ever asked for. Your wisdom, commitment, and unwavering sense of justice set you apart. Even in the face of challenges, you remained strong. The last year of your life was incredibly difficult, yet you faced it with such resilience that we believed you would pull through. If anyone could have fought cancer and won, it was you, Dad. But somehow, it was not meant to be. You passed on to another life, free from pain and suffering.

Cherished Childhood Memories

My childhood is filled with fond memories of you. As I grew older, I gained a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices you made to raise us. Some neighbors and relatives wondered how you would manage to support and educate ten children. But you were determined, and you instilled in us the belief that we would never lack. Even as we grew and faced life’s realities, you remained our pillar of encouragement.

Thank you, Dad, for all you did for us. You sacrificed your comfort for our well-being, ensuring we had not just the basics but even the little joys of life. I was amazed when a cousin once shared that she would time her visits home on Saturdays because she knew you would bring bread. Bread was a rare treat and knowing it would be there over the weekend felt like Christmas came all too often.

Now, when my son eagerly looks inside my handbag every time I come home, I am reminded of you. You never came home empty-handed. How hard it must have been to spare some of your hard-earned money for family-size bread or mandazis. But that was who you were—always thinking of us first.

Lingering Memories and Unanswered Questions

Two years later, your memory is still fresh. Not a single day has passed without you crossing my mind. There are countless moments in my daily life that remind me of you.

Sometimes, I wonder if things could have been different. Could they have done something sooner? Could an earlier diagnosis have saved you?

I wonder.

But then I ask myself—would that have only prolonged your suffering?

I wonder.

And then I remind myself that you lived every single day of your life to the fullest.

Beyond This World

I know you are alive, just in a different world—one not bound by the limitations of the body or space. I know you are no longer in pain. I know you can sense these words and all the unspoken ones we hold in our hearts.

Your daughters and sons, your grandchildren, your great-grandchildren, your siblings, and all your loved ones keep you close in their hearts. Your presence is still felt, and your legacy lives on.

May you continue to rest in peace, Dad. May your memory live on forever.

In Memory’s Garden

In memory’s garden, we pause to reflect,
Two years have passed, yet we still connect.
Your presence is missed, your love never fades,
In our hearts and minds, your memory cascades.

Though tears may fall, and sadness persists,
Your legacy lives on. In our hearts, it exists.
With every smile, every laugh, every tear,
We cherish the moments when you were near.

You taught us so much in your own gentle (and sometimes not-so-gentle) way,
Your wisdom and kindness still guide us every day.
Though you’re not here in person, your spirit’s alive,
In the memories we hold, we continue to thrive.

On this second anniversary, we honor your name,
And in our hearts, your love remains the same.
We’ll celebrate your life, with joy and with tears,
For you’re in our hearts, and we’ll carry you for years.