your second-year Animal Physiology class. It meant so much to me to see you beaming among your classmates, as if to say, “That’s my sister.” That moment will always stay with me. I fondly remember your countless visits to our home, often with your entourage of friends (too many to name). You always brought energy, laughter, and good vibes. After you all left, the silence in the house was a constant reminder of how much joy your presence brought. While I lived on campus in more recent years, you never failed to come by your Big Sis’s house with your friends whenever you were in Kumasi because you knew there would always be some good chow. Many of your friends still treat me like their own big sister, and what a treasure that is. I’m celebrating more than just your birthday today—I’m celebrating you. The brother who’s been my strength, my confidant, and my constant support through every season of life. Even more unforgettable to me is the love and care you showed me when I went through the hardest moment of my life, losing my first husband. You stood by me, not just with words, but with your presence, love, and substance—and with the kind of support only a truly selfless heart can give. You helped hold me and the kids together when we needed it most, and for that, I am eternally grateful. When I returned from study leave to Ghana, overwhelmed by all the changes in my life, there you were—calm, steady, and supportive—helping me find my footing again. I cannot begin to list the steps you encouraged me to take. We discussed and planned many things, thinking about the future of the children. I’ve been thinking lately about how much your support has meant to me through everything—especially as I found love again and stepped into this new chapter of life. Your happiness for me, your encouragement, and the way you celebrated my new beginning with Charles with such genuine joy… I can’t tell you how much that touched my heart. Thank you for walking beside me through my past grief and into light. Your love and support have been such a blessing, and I’m so grateful to have you as my brother. What touches me most is the bond you share with my children and now my grandchildren. The way they light up around you, the way they look up to their “cool uncle,” says everything about the kind of person you are. You completely took over Dzifa’s Aburi Girls’ days—driving her to and from school, visiting her, making sure she had everything she needed. Your unwavering presence in the lives of all the children—Tony, Dzifa, Senam, and Senyo, before and even after marriage—is amazing. You came with me all the way to South Africa to celebrate Tony and Karabo when they were getting married. They always recount what a great time it was. Their husbands and wives are also embraced warmly by you. You’ve taught, guided, and loved them with endless patience. You’re not just their uncle—you’re their role model. If I never told you, I want you to know today that I have such peace just knowing the relationship you share with each one of them. That is something I’ll always hold dear. You are such a gift to us, and today, I join everyone to celebrate the light and love you bring into all our lives. Happy Birthday again, dear Lizo. May this new year bring you all the joy, peace, and blessings you so richly deserve. Your beloved sister, Angela Ara Amedo Kwarteng The Birthday Journal 27 E L L I S AT 6 0
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