I feel like I’ve known you all my life — since I was a little girl. You’ve always been sweet, kind, and God-fearing — truly a jewel. I have so many fond memories. I can’t tell them all, but I remember when you came to visit me in the ATL and we would go out. We would start driving off, and you would quickly remind me to pray and give me a lecture on that subject. It was serious and yet so hilarious. Only I can’t really tell…Hahaha. I still smile when I remember that time you came to visit and it was my birthday. We were talking about the outfit I would wear to church on Sunday, and you insisted I wear a kente stole. I told you I didn’t own one, and you went into your suitcase and gave me yours — only a mother would do that. God bless you, Aunty. Of course, there was that moment when you said I came to Ghana and didn’t come to greet you. You came to the house, I went out to greet, and obviously, you would not pay me any mind! But fast forward, we let it go, and hurray —me and my Aunty are besties. You are loving, kind, and God-fearing. I want to thank you for loving me and my family the way you do. As you turn 80, may the good Lord continue to make His face shine upon you, and may His joy and love rest upon you always. I love you, Aunty. Enjoy your special day and the years to come! Eleanor Dear AuntieMonica, I’ve known you since I was a child, and you have always been “AuntieMonica fromKumasi” to me, since my mother also bears the same name, Monica. You are kind, nurturing, motherly, and a wonderful teacher — like a second mother to me and my siblings. Your gentle smile and calm voice have guided, corrected, and advised us with love and patience. Your wisdom and counsel have truly shaped who we are today. Some of my favourite memories are the holidays spent with you and your family in Kumasi. During those times, we learned so much — from schoolwork to household chores — and it was always a joy to be around you. I have also learned from you to always be kind and to participate actively in church or any community I find myself in. You taught me that one of the most meaningful ways to live is by serving others and caring for those around us. I can’t recall any moments of misunderstanding with you; our relationship has always been built on love and understanding. Thank you for always being like a second mother to me — guiding, supporting, and loving me unconditionally. You have touched our lives in more ways than youmay ever realize. Happy 80th Birthday, AuntieMonica! We thank God for your life and for the countless blessings He has bestowed upon you. May this milestone year bring you joy, peace, and the same warmth you have always shared with everyone around you. May God continue to bless you with good health, happiness, and abundant joy for many more years. We celebrate you today and always, and we are so grateful for the incredible person you are. Yvonne Ofori 108 The Birthday Journal
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