Milestone: Soeur Ma
Friday November 17th, is a day that will live in infamy. It will always evoke sadness in me. I keep drifting to the last time I had a one on one exchange with you, Soeur Ma. As usual, you were the one asking me how I was doing. You told me you were happy to see me. Then I asked you how you were doing. With your trademark radiant smile, you assured me you were doing OK; and that you will not let any sickness dictate how you wanted to live your life on a daily basis. How I could rewind and go back to that singular moment of that day……………..
It is very difficult to fathom and accept what has just happened to you. The shock is unbearable. I am not really a prayerful nor spiritual person; so I am not well-placed to ask God for favors; but this past one month, I kept praying and interceding for you Soeur Ma. I had hoped for a miracle….. but God had a different plan………
Soeur Ma, you fought valiantly. Even in your difficult moments, you took the time to respond to my text messages. Your stoicism in the face of this fierce battle is what gave me confidence that you would vanquish this! The courage and resilience you showed is commendable and has won my esteemed admiration for you forever.
My first home-cooked meal in the US was by you, Soeur Ma. You have always been intimately involved in all major milestones in my life- my wedding, Babila’s birth and other numerous occasions. As Babila’s Godmother, you always made sure the boy lacked nothing; you stood in as Babila’s mother on numerous instances. Of course, on his birthday and every Christmas, a gift from you was a foregone conclusion.
This loss hits hard and is personal. Just like that, you who has always been ever present in my life is snatched away
It feels difficult, it is hard to wrap my head around and it leaves an emptiness I cannot begin to understand….
To the other half of this wonderful and loving duo of John and Mary: Brother John, all I can muster at this difficult moment are the words to the song by Norman MacLeod:
*Courage, brother! do not stumble,*
*though your path be dark as night;*
*there’s a star to guide the humble:*
*trust in God, and do the right*.
To Kouazou, Michael and Pekam, your mom is not in the physical anymore but she will always hover over you and will be a reassuring presence in all aspects of your lives. She will continue to bless you. To Bob, Genevieve, Emma and Jerome, it is a tough loss. All we can offer is our love, prayers, support and encouragement. To Mami Julie, we can only imagine your pain; we pray the good Lord provide you with overflowing comfort, peace and the fortitude & grace to handle this loss of your daughter……..
To the extended Takusi and Njowo families, we share your pain. May you all find solace and comfort in the Lord.
Soeur Ma, you have always been a planner, an organizer, a mediator and a facilitator for a host of people on numerous occasions. You worked hard in God’s vineyard. You planted a lot of seeds and nurtured their growth. In short, you left an indelible imprint on everything you touched. Just when it was your time to harvest, to reap the fruits of your hard work, the good Lord decided to interrupt the plans.
You planted, but you did not harvest!!!! It is my fervent wish that those of us who will harvest and benefit from your largesse will always keep you in our thoughts and prayers and show gratitude on your behalf……..
Go well Soeur Marie. May you be reunited with your brother Charlie and your dad, Pa Takusi.
Heaven has gained an Angel; may you regale the heavenly courts with your charm, wit, humor and above all, your kindness.
Adieu Soeur Ma until we meet again. We love you.
Fondly,
Bah Edwin Tita (Uncle Ed)