I’ve known AuntieMonica since my days at UST some 35 years ago. From the very beginning, she’s been warm, welcoming, and motherly to everyone around her. One of my fondest memories is how she would always invite me to eat, even after I had left KNUST and started working at the IRS in Kumasi. I can still hear her say, “My son Ben, come home when you can.” Through her actions, she taught us that giving should be part of our daily lives. I also fondly remember her teasing me, saying, “Ben yɛ na ware,” meaning, “Ben, it’s time for you to get married.” Those little moments still make me smile. I’ll never forget her reaction when she found out I was marrying my wife, Cynthia — she was so surprised and happy, reminding me that she had been a mother figure to both of us. There has never been a moment of misunderstanding — only kindness, laughter, and guidance. If I could thank her for one thing, it would be for being a mother not just to me, but to all my friends who gathered at her home. Her love extends to everyone around her, and that’s truly special. I also remember the countless times in the ’90s when she stopped by my office just to share a fewwords of wisdom or encouragement. And of course, her gentle insistence that I finish the food she gave me — classic AuntieMonica! Auntie has always been motherly, genuine, and down-toearth. I’m deeply grateful for the way she has touched the lives of so many. AuntieMonica, I thank God for you. As you celebrate your 80th birthday, we pray for continued blessings, good health, and joy in the years ahead. Ben Yeboah I met Yaa Yaa about fifty years ago. I still remember walking on Okodee Road and being stunned to see a lecturer’s wife looking so young and beautiful — it’s an image that has stayed with me ever since. She has always been full of life and warmth. Her abelewɔ and nkatie cake were legendary, and her creative dishes made her home a favourite stop for anyone passing between Ridge Road and Okodee Road. Yaa Yaa’s house was always open— there was food, laughter, and care for everyone who came by. I’ll never forget the day Owuraku and I sneaked a puppy into the house. We thought she’d be angry, but instead, she smiled and asked howwe planned to feed it. That’s her —firm but always kind. It’s hard to have a misunderstanding with someone who’s always smiling (though nɛ n’esa yɛ den kakra!). She’s loving, talkative, and strong —which makes perfect sense if you have children like Richard, Chief, and Owuraku! If I could thank her for one thing, it would be her genuine love and kindness to me over the years. Yaa Yaa, I wish you good health and another twenty years of joy, laughter, and blessings — and please, don’t forget to start sharing your prosperity with me! Kwabena Sarpong The Birthday Journal 107
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