'Eleven-eleven' remains in my memory as one of the last and largest gatherings of Papa, his family and friends at Wegbe-Kpalime. It was the Centenary Celebration of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church at the place Papa called 'home' and no one would take away the joy, excitement and preparation for this grand occasion. Papa was very happy - clad from head to toe in the anniversary cloth and ensured that all his family members had sewn and were wearing outfits made in the same cloth too.

 Children, in-laws, nephews, nieces, friends from church and whoever would listen had been told months ahead about this very-important occasion, and many had been invited to attend. I remember how some of us who had to do a return-trip that Sunday converged at my sister D'Emefa's home before 6am and were ready to set-off to Wegbe - all of us fully aware that we had to arrive way before the service itself began (Papa was not one to arrive late at Church services). My very good friend and maid-of-honour (Ayele), and my brother-in-law (Max) also joined in - to share in the joy of this 'Holy Village' we had said so much about. You can be certain that enough 'noise' had been made about the celebration! :)

Looking back at pictures from that day and remembering all that went on, I have smiles on my face. :) Papa was a 'GUY' - he knew how to let people share in his joys, and good news was never something to be 'hidden'. Good news had to be shared. Interestingly, today, I interacted for the first time with someone called 'Nyanyuie' - (i.e. 'good news' in Ewe).

Papa's legacy truly lives on! Life is more beautiful with relationships and we should all strive to build many impactful, truthful, well-meaning and lasting ones. May we shun the things that divide us and embrace the things that unite us. May the Lord enable us to let go of the things that have hurt us in the past and embrace a fresh start and a godly perspective on all issues. Amen.

Love God! Love people! 11-11 memories. 

Written in November 2021