I I have always loved hats. Over the years, I have worn many of them. Some simply because I liked the way they looked, and others because of the roles life called me to play. There was the hat of the young boy from Vakpo with dreams bigger than the world he knew. The naval officer who went to sea. The Commander entrusted with ships and men. The public servant called upon to serve his country in different capacities. The husband, father and grandfather devoted to his family. The community man always willing to lend a hand. And through it all, the man of faith who trusted God to guide his path. Each hat tells a part of my story. Together, they tell the story of a life shaped by service. To God be the glory 85 years! Service has followed me in many forms throughout my life. Sometimes it came through the positions I held, and at other times it simply meant making myself available wherever there was a need. I like people. I like to work, and I like to serve. That has been a large part of my life. I have served on committees, in communities and organisations, in the Ghana Armed Forces and, above all, in the service of Mother Ghana. Even after years of public service, I continued to find fulfilment in working directly with people and helping those who were less privileged. That desire to serve drew me to the Lions Club and has kept me there for more than three decades. When all is said and done, I would like to be remembered for service, humility, integrity, honesty and compassion. Of all the hats I have worn, however, somehavemeantmore tome thanany title or position. The hats of husband, father, grandfather, family man and friend. My family and the people who have shared this journeywithme have been among God’s greatest blessings inmy life. I hope my life continues to reflect that of a humble man who gives his best, loves his family and community, serves with dedication and integrity, and always seeks to make a positive difference in the lives of others. At 85, I am deeply grateful. I thank God for the life He continues to give me, for every hat I have been privileged to wear, for the people who continue to share this journey with me, and for every opportunity I have had and continue to have to serve. The hats may have changed over the years, but the man beneath them has always tried to remain the same. For God and Country! COMMODORE STEPHEN GEORGE YAO OBIMPEH The Hats That Tell My Story A N E C D O T E 2 The Birthday Journal
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