Tribute to my Dear Wife, Martha Wow, Babe, my loving, beautiful Martha, never in my wildest dreams I thought I would be writing a tribute to you, my best friend, wife, rock, and mother to our three lovely children, Arlando, Adamu and Eken. Your passing is the most difficult pill to swallow. Part of my soul is gone with you. Am still tearing up as I write and will be for a long time. It’s like a terrible dream; Yet, it is true. I will forever cherish all the happy moments we shared together. A home, lots of laughter, shopping, cooking, Friday dancing nights and the family trips you orchestrated. With you, I am blessed with beautiful children, in-laws, and dear friends. You were my angel on planet earth; now you are my angel from above. You made me a better man, a better husband and above all a better father to our children. You always reminded me of things that matter most in life. I will be forever grateful. You were selfless and brilliant with an excellent eye for details. Your dedication to making our family comfortable and happy knew no bounds. You were the pillar and the light of the house, the glue that bonded the family together. Today, the pillar is cracked, and the light is dimmed. You were a successful entrepreneur, touching several lives in the course of your business. The daily train trips to and from Los Angeles were chores sometimes, yet, you never complained. You made it a point to be home on time for our daily evening dinner at the table with the children. We all looked forward to dinner time so we can share our days' adventure. You never miss an opportunity to share your wisdom with us. You were the mother every child would love to have, caring, loving, tolerant and above all full of wisdom. No matter how tired, you found time to attend to the children' needs, making sure all assignments were completed thoroughly, attending school events, and for us to catch up. In July 2017, when you were diagnosed with Uterine leiomyosarcoma cancer, the doctor predicted you have six months to live. As I teared up, you comforted me with your words of wisdom, “it’s gods call, we have to pray for the lord to guide us through this ordeal.” For twenty-one months, I prayed, family, friends, Pastor Noel and our congregation all prayed for your recovery. We all loved you, but God loves you more. During our several trips to Casa Colina for physical therapy, to Santa Monica for Chemotherapy and San Antonio Hospital, I saw the courageous fighting spirit in you; you fought a good fight. Despite your condition, you always charm the doctors and caregivers with your broad, beautiful smile; expressing your gratitude “thank you, thank you.” Your sense of gratitude was second to none. On March 29th when we arrived at San Antonio Hospital, never thought that was going to be your last trip to the hospital. In my view, there was a glimmer of hope you will beat the odds. When the lord come calling, we bow. We give thanks to god for your life, for enabling us to be husband and wife, for freeing you of the cancer pain. Couldn’t bear to see you in that condition. I would have exchanged places gladly with you if it were possible. The load is real…very heavy, and the journey without you would be long and tedious. However, I am reminded of your words of wisdom. “God will show us the way.” In February, lying in your hospital bed, you took my right hand, in your usual soft voice, you echoed, “take care of the children.” Be rest assured, I will dedicate my life to carrying out your wishes. I know you will be looking down from the heavens and cheering on. You may be gone; your soul will live in me forever. Adieus honey, adieus babe, adieus friend, rest in peace till we meet again. Love you dearly. Your Loving Husband, Musa Adamu Mba