By Mrs Manna Ericka Daughter-in-law
Oh papa ! My father, friend and consellor. The one who gave me reasons to smile amidst tears. Where are you? I remember the times you took me into your bedroom, just to encourage,
appreciate and assure me of your unflinching love and support all the way.
So unassuming and appreciative you were. No effort from those around you was ever minimised. In our conversations, you always informed me about every kind gesture from those who served you in the house. You made me a queen as you always tagged me "intelligent and hard working". Those words melted my heart and gave me reasons to push on more. Who will make me feel like that queen in the family again?
I was your daughter indeed. How many fathers-in-law would take their daughter-in- law to see a Doctor in order for her to have her own child? I will never forget the day you bought palm wine, a pot and took me to that mama, to help me through infertility. Despite your age and position in the community, you stooped so low, just to to make me happy. A great man you were indeed with a heart of gold.
To me, you have always been the dad that I lost 20 years ago. Coming into your family gave me real joy as I found another mum and dad. Unfortunately, the cold hands of death snatched Ma Mantan Grace, my mum and friend barely a year after I knew her.Though a difficult pill to swallow, your presence and love remained my greatest consolation. Today, you are gone and I have again become a complete orphan. Oh God! help me.
Your dream came true the day you set your eyes on Kenna. Little did I know you had hidden tears because you had not seen my own child. Your joy could not be hidden as you publicly declared "I have seen what I have been waiting for all these years. I can now rest in peace". These words sank deep and meant a lot to me each time you told people who came to see the baby. It didn't increase my love for you, but only confirmed the feelings I already had for you. Kenna, became " Ngondam Ba" (Ba's new wife), who had returned. You could not stay for 5 hrs without seeing her. She may not grow to know you, but I'm thankful to God for the time you spent with her.
Today you are no more. I wonder what Uncle Doh, Sylvie, Franck, Mbi, Oumarou Nadine, Karel, Zephrinus, Joyce, Cristine, Serena, Naura Perez, Kenna and others who were so fond of you are going through. Your presence with us made life so sweet and lively. The house is so quiet without you. Sometimes, I open your room as usual before coming to the reality that you are no more.
My soft spoken daddy, man of the people and peace maker, today you are resting from your labour. I know your spirit lives on and will help the family to live in peace, unity and love as you so desired.
On that faithful day we took you to the hospital, little did we know you will never return home. Even on that hospital bed, you didn't stop thanking us for the love and care. I saw life gradually ebbing away from you, but your strength gave us hope. I am however convinced you were ready to leave as you rested just a few hours after the pastor's prayer.
As you rest on Dad, we know heaven has gained another angel. If one could live forever, we would wish that for you. Like Paul, we declare, you lived for Christ and your death is gain.
My hero, my shining star, as you rest on Ba, I love you dearly and forever keep you in my heart.
Mrs Manna Ericka
Daughter-in-law