Dear Ralph, Happy 90th birthday! Our connection runs deep, back to my secondary school days when you would visit my sister in our home in Kokomlemle. As the years unfolded, so did our bond. When I finished form five, you played a pivotal role in setting me up with my very first paying job—a vacation job that marked the beginning of my journey into the working world. During my national service, I had the privilege of living with you. You weren’t just a brother-in-law; you were a friend who took me under your wing. Your humility and down-to-earth demeanour made every moment enjoyable, and your ability to connect with people of all ages left a lasting impression. As we celebrate this incredible milestone in your life, I can’t help but reflect on the rich history of memories and experiences we’ve shared over the decades. You’re not just a brother-in-law; you’re family, a friend, and a mentor rolled into one. Through the ups and downs, challenges, and triumphs, you’ve been there. I cherish the memories of our shared experiences, like the time you introduced me to the taste of akple, which I enjoyed immensely, although I have resisted eating akple for years. Your vast knowledge of fishes from your fishing industry days is something I’ll always remember fondly. On this special occasion, I want to express my deepest gratitude for being more than just family. You’ve been a guiding force, a mentor, and a friend. The impact you’ve had on my life is immeasurable, and as we mark 50+ years of our bond, I look forward to creating more cherished memories with you. Happy birthday, Ralph! May this milestone be filled with joy, love, and the warmth that you’ve generously shared with all of us. With heartfelt wishes, BB Uncle Ralph is one of the very few people I know who laughs at his own jokes more than the audience he is telling the joke to. Mind you, if the joke doesn’t get you, his own laugh at the joke will get you. He is a very jovial man and loves to play little pranks on people, unfortunately, Auntie Vivian got the majority of them. Many years ago in Takoradi, I remember when he lit a knockout under the dining room table where Auntie Vivian was sitting. I don’t recall how high Auntie Vivian jumped or yelled, but his laughter at what he had done made it all very amusing. I’ve observed him not to sweat the small stuff as well. We had (or he had) these beautiful blue crystal glasses that the kids (me, Dela, Auguster, Dede, and others) were not supposed to drink from. But they were so nice he couldn’t stop us from using them. The only problem was we kept breaking them. When there were only two left, he shook his head and said, “As soon as they are all broken, we would be at peace, and there won’t be any more to break!” I thought I was in serious trouble when he found out I’d been moving his car (Ford Escort then) with the excuse that I was washing the car. He called me and told me off (or asked me? I am still trying to figure that out). He said he heard that I drive now and had been using his car. So I should remind him never to leave his car keys behind anymore. I am sure he will be telling us a few jokes at his muchdeserved party! In those days, Uncle Ralph had one of the biggest poultry farms in the Western Region. When eggs were luxuries, every morning we had eggs. Chicken was not a Christmas dish in his house. I often spent my holidays with him and his wife, Auntie Vivian. Uncle Ralph, sorry, Togbui, have a great day. May you live to be 100, on your feet as you are now and still telling jokes. Dela Our age is merely the number of years the world has been enjoying us! Cheers to you for another trip around the sun! The world became a little brighter 90 years ago on the day you were born, and your light has burned brighter with each passing year. You have enriched so many lives and made a powerful impact on everything you’ve undertaken so far. Cheers, Uncle Ralph. Happy 90th Birthday Togbui! Nunya Gadegbeku 38 The Birthday Journal
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