Death be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so;
For those whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow
Die not…. One short sleep past, we wake eternally,
And death shall be no more; death, thou shalt die.

John Donne (1572-1631) Holy Sonnets, no. 10

My friend and my brother, you journey back home to your maker have left us heart broken. We are hurt beyond the limit of physical pain. If only you could see yourself through our eyes to realize how special you are. As if our ancestors knew that this day must surely come and they gave you the name  NDUKWE. Death could not stop you but stopped for you to embark on this mystical gyration to the great beyond. As the curtain is drowned and your chariot waits, it is now zigzag of the Trio: man,death,immortality.(homo,mortem et immortalitatem . )   Do not be disheartened because of our continuous and uncontrollable tears. It is just that your time seems brief as we remember the laughter and happiness that followed you throughout your life. You loved  life to the fullest.You are one of the greatest apostle of love I have seen in modern time.   As you have crossed the Rubicon, keep your eyes on the journey and do not look back, raise you head high, dance proudly to the great beyond. Your life time is a catalogue of exemplary and selfless deeds. You will be guided by love, faith and perpetual light.

Our loved ones wait to welcome you
To that land free from all tears
Where joy becomes eternal
And time is not counted in years  

The dash in-between your date of birth and date of passing away says it all. You shared everything you had with friends, family, patients and even strangers. You engraved in our heart memories of a man who was easy going and straight forward. You always make sure your family and friends were doing well. Omereoha!!!! You will never say no when you could help. Your greatest accomplishments must have been this ability to keep friendships and show love. You helped keep so many dreams alive, including mine. You will be truly missed, you are priceless, an irreplaceable rare gem. We have journeyed quite a long time in our friendship and all through, you held my hands like a big brother. I have always love you and will always do.     In knowledge you are like the son of King David, in valour you are a Trojan, a true soldier. Oke Nwa Ohafia Udumeze!!!!Dimkpa asa!!The gentle giant!!! You had no fear and will be remembered for your mental and physical strength in the face of very challenging and difficult circumstances. That is how you weathered the storm through medical school to become….a selfless Surgeon: The peoples’ Doctor!!!  Your credentials are honorable, your memory will be an inspiration for generations to come and your story must be told. Though it will always hurt, but in our hope we shall draw comfort because it is only our maker who can take the best .And soon we will reunite to path no more.

As you might have said:

My life's been full, I savored much; Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch. Perhaps my time seems all to brief; Don't lengthen your pain with undue grief. Lift up your heart and peace to thee, God wanted me now-He set me free.   You are truly free indeed! You are HOME!

The good book confirmed this when Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43).

                     The Guru...   Safe journey and Rest in Peace.