My earliest memories of you, BB, are from the playground at Tema Parents’ School in Community 2—especially our time on the swings. Although we went to different schools afterwards—I toWesley Girls and you to Aburi Girls—our friendship grew even closer. The walks between the Anamans’ home at Site 18 and the Kweis’ home at Site 21 became a regular part of our lives. I became “Sister Eunice” to all of your siblings, and your mum, Auntie Theresa, was one of my favourite aunties. We attended vacation classes together at Temasco before our O-Level examinations, and I will never forget the day my father came home to break the news of our results. We waited nervously at my parents’ house, and of course, we both did very well and went on to our respective Sixth Forms. After A-Levels, I moved to the US for my studies. I really missed you during those years of separation and even remember not being able to be there when youmarried Francis Ofei. When I returned to Ghana, it was a joy to discover that we lived in the same neighbourhood again, within walking distance of each other. Over the years, work, family, and life have limited our time together, but you have remained one of my closest friends. It is always easy to pick up where we left off, and sharing each other’s milestone events has always been a must. You have been a tremendous help to me professionally, supporting me when I set up an independent power-producing company several years ago, offering your HR expertise through Aspire Plus. You even personally edited my entire CV, gratis. You have always been the friend I wanted to be when I grew up —always composed, with a beautiful home, an accomplished cook, a unifier in your family, and a wonderful dresser. I continue to be so proud of you and all your professional accomplishments. As you turn 60, just a couple of months after I did, I wish you the very best as you navigate this new stage of life. I know that the two skinny girls who once ran around the playground at Tema Parents will continue to be great friends—and hopefully slow down enough to spend more time together, maybe even finally take up that Pilates class we’ve been talking about for months. Happy birthday, BB. I wish you love, peace, continued accomplishments, good health, and wealth by the grace of God. Enjoy your special day. I leave you with the words of Isaiah 46:3–4 to encourage you and remind you that you are deeply loved. Eunice Biritwum 24 The Birthday Journal
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