Dear BB, I knew from the very start that putting a fewwords together for this journal was not going to be easy. I felt that bringing our siblings together, along with special friends and family who have known you over the years, would be the best way to tell a beautiful story—in words and pictures—of my dear second older sister. Coordinating this journal has been such a privilege. What has warmed my heart most is knowing that this is one thing we siblings confidently put together without looking over our shoulders and wondering, “What would BB do differently?” Because it was a surprise, you had to be kept completely in the dark. Thank you, my dear brothers and sisters, for making it possible. BB, you are everything one could hope for in a sister, wife, mum, grandma, work colleague, and spiritual buddy. You are that special guardian angel—present in both good and difficult times. Your leadership is exceptional, and you have a remarkable way of problem-solving and coordinating everything with grace and clarity. As the third youngest teenage girl, I had to earn my place by being “good” so I could tag along to parties that Maame and you were invited to. Some of those invitations were, shall we say, somewhat “fictitious.” If you sensed anything amiss, you would opt out—much to our horror—because we all knew our parents would not allow Maame and me to go if you didn’t. We would beg, plead, and promise you everything, but you would not budge. The result was often an early night for all of us. That story sums you up so well. From a young age, you were proper, diligent, and conscientious, always determined to do things the right way and to see them through properly. I used to take pride in some of the things I thought I did well, but the truth is, you did them ten times better. We all learned to play the piano, but you went all the way to Grade 8 of the London Associated Board of the Royal School of Music—the highest level. I reached Grade 5, and sadly, our piano teacher became unwell, so I gladly quit at that point, knowing it would only get harder. You, on the other hand, carried on, playing at Aburi Girls until sixth form, and later at Masses at Christ the King and St James Parish. I did my fair share of recitals at Holy Child School up to Form4, but I must confess that formation dancing to Shalamar and Kool & the Gang felt far more exciting than piano recitals. I preferred applause from the Augusco and Kwabotwe boys to polite clapping in an assembly hall. It is with some sadness that even my closest friends, who usually give me credit for doing things well, change their tune once they meet you. One friend once said, “Aba, you are fine and classy, but your sister BB is the personification of class and style.” There is, however, one thing I do better than you. In your world, black is black and white is white. In my world, white can become many things if it helps me out of trouble. I’ll say no more on that. I could go on endlessly about what youmean to me. The love I have for you is deep, and I am so proud and honoured to have you as my sister. Reading what our other siblings have written has been a joy—we all see you in the same way: humble, kind, selfless, loving, caring, detailed, and deeply rooted in your love for God. You are truly phenomenal. As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I wish you every good thing. May today be filled with joy and the years ahead with happiness and fulfilment. Mum and Dad will surely be smiling in heaven, knowing they raised a unique secondborn child who has grown into a remarkable 60-year-old wife, mother, grandmother, and highly respected CEO of Aspire Plus Limited. May God continue to bless you in every area of your life, for you are truly and highly favoured. Happy Birthday, BB. With much love and every blessing, Abameryah 18 The Birthday Journal
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