My Bridge, and Strength: Presci
Growing up as one big family was always fun, growing up as a big sister made me know I had you.
Growing up knowing I had a big brother was a concern, having our parents gave joy.
Growing up we took roles in the drama Our Home. Each a part to play, a name to defend.
Like in every home cracks common were identified
Either by some members joining during the drama or some of us playing double roles
Nih, AKA sih, Prescilla, one of the roles you played from your humble birth was being a bridge
Your creator did not place you a middle child in error, from all ends you are the middle child
Bridging the gap for us all, your opinion has always been the most considered.
It is not uncommon to hear Pa or mami ask the question “what has Nih said”?
There are so many things I do not know how to do today because you bridged the gaps for me
I am a mother to our kids only because I house them
In Shan’s word “my mami sef sef”.
Professor and Wife are parents only because they are housing the children
Prosper same and I will say Divine. We all call you, “mami manager and charger.”
I cannot talk about our parents referring to you as bridge, Nih you know that is bad news
But guess what!! This is affirmation that you are a true bridge for all of us in the world beyond.
We now sit comfortably, knowing that if there be a war in the realm of mortals not seen you will fight for us. We trust that if there be joy you will safeguard our portion.
You carried this role even in your extracurricular activities not limited to playing handball
Students in all schools you attended attest to the fact that you were the best pivot.
Anyone who knows the handball game will understand who Nih is in real life.
Papa’s most cherished child, representing him even in his professional discipline…sports…
Mami’s most cherished aunt, dying of the same ailment.
She lights the lamp and makes things happen whenever she passes by.
She reminds you if something is lacking in your camp or defense before she strikes.
Guess what!! she was unable to strike when the beast visited her.
Too busy bridging for other.
Nih, I need your strength to carry on with the boys Abaaa!!! Nih I need you.
I need you to stay stronger for me in the world beyond.
Growing up, we knew we would bury our parents and by virtue you would bury me your older sister
Today I must change the narrative and give you the place you occupy… the bridge, the link, the middleman
Today I attest that you are the best sister that God gave me. Chaii Nih, we had plans…
Best sister to your brothers, The best mother to our Kids
Most cherished by your father and loved by your mother. Best wife to your husband
I need not talk about the other family members who held their breath in disbelief.
Your friends, your students, your colleagues, Faith Abakwa, your community all alike.
You touched everyone you met in a special way.
Sister me, you left too soon.
How will I handle these children? How do I tell them you will not be present at important events?
That the physical contact of September twenty sixth twenty seventeen was the last one with you.
How do I manage this situation without you?
Bestie, please link me with someone so we can finish our last fight.
so, we can continue to gossip about “boy” our older brother.
so, we can gang up against Pa and reduce his share of…of
Link me and let us tell them in your voice it will be well if “we trust God”
Link me so we remind them with Big Pa’s watch words “oh ye men of little faith”
Let me continue to grow with your strength and Charisma.
Sister me, you rocked before, you rock now, and I know you will continue to rock
In your savior’s sight you are precious, the reason He did not want to see you suffer.
He came in His usual unannounced way and took you to be with Him
February seventeen twenty twenty one at Seven fifty eight PM, Cameroon time, you took your last supported breath
Living me speechless, helpless, yet hopeful that we shall meet again beyond the blue sky.
Sis, I must walk my way diligently and directly, and encourage your kids to follow your footsteps
so, we make heaven and reunite with you.
Sleep on my beautiful child, sleep on my sister, Ibefi will miss you until we reunite.
Bi Brenda Toh, Older sister