It feels like I’ve known you all my life — you’ve always been part of our family story. But the time that truly stands out was when my parents retired fromKumasi. That’s when you stepped in and became like a second mum to me. Youmade that transition so natural that I almost didn’t notice my parents had moved away. You are love, discipline, and humour all wrapped in one amazing woman. You’ve shown us that family isn’t just about blood — it’s about showing up, caring deeply, and loving consistently. Your quiet acts of giving, without expecting anything in return, have shaped howwe treat others as a family. One of my favourite memories is your check-in calls. Out of nowhere, my phone would ring, and I’d hear, “This is Auntie Monica, just checking if all is okay with you.” That simple call always reminded me that I was loved and remembered. When my parents left Kumasi, you didn’t make a big show of helping — you just stepped in with care, guidance, and warmth, even though I thought I was grown enough to manage on my own. From you, I learned that real love doesn’t make noise — it just shows up. You are truly loving, wise, and unstoppable. Thank you for being the bridge — the one who quietly connects generations with love, patience, and, of course, food. As you turn 80, I pray your days are filled with laughter, peace, and the joy of knowing how deeply you’re loved. You’ve been a mother, grandmother, counsellor, and prayer warrior to us all, and we thank God for your beautiful life. Kofi, Maame, and the kids AuntieMonica, I first met you back in the early 1990s when you and your family relocated to Nhyiaeso. Through Owuraku Asante, I became more than just a neighbour — I became a family friend. We were close, and those days remain some of my fondest memories. We affectionately nicknamed you “Kwame Nkrumah” because of your incredible knowledge across all social topics — truly, there was never a dull conversation with you. You’ve always been fashionable, friendly, and full of life, inspiring my younger siblings to take their education seriously and engaging both young and old with such grace. You are fashionable, youthful, and friendly. One memory that always makes me smile is your famous phrase — “se maako ah nye!” I remember you telling me how your children used to tease you for attending nearly every funeral in Oseikrom, and your witty response was, “If I don’t go, it won’t be nice!” Ever since, that phrase became our playful call sign whenever we met at funerals in Kumasi. You’ve taught me to pursue my interests with passion and perseverance, and for that, I’m deeply grateful. You opened your home to me, offered valuable advice, and always greeted me with a genuine smile — never a moment of misunderstanding between us. As you celebrate this remarkable milestone, I thank God for your life and pray that His grace continues to keep you in good health, peace, and abundant joy. May the years ahead be filled with laughter and blessings. With warm regards, Kwadwo Asante-Mensah 104 The Birthday Journal
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTAyMTM3NQ==