Monica 80 Magazine

I have known Yaa Yaa for a very long time, from before Sister even started university. We first met in Accra at AuntyMonica Owusu’s shop, and not long after, when my husband, Mr Amoah, was transferred to Kumasi, I moved there too. That is when our real friendship began. She became my Sister —we are both called Yaa Yaa — and we shared so much in common. Our ideas, principles, and discipline aligned; in many ways, my character resembled hers. We believed in guiding our children and the younger generation with firm biblical principles. Whenever we sawwrongdoing, we spoke up. We tried to let the Bible lead everything we did. Whatever she set her heart on, I supported her fully, and no matter how challenging the younger ones could be, she remained focused and consistent, always helping them grow in faith. Yaa Yaa has done so much for me. When we moved to Kumasi, I fell seriously ill about a year later. She was God-sent. She supported me, cared for me, and devoted herself to my recovery. If she hadn’t been in my life, I truly do not knowwhat would have happened. I will never forget her kindness on this earth until the second coming of Jesus Christ. Every day I thank God for knowing her and pray that He continues to strengthen her so she can keep helping others. She never sits and watches things fall apart; she is dedicated and always willing to help. Because of her, I have met so many wonderful people, and we have become like sisters. We have enjoyed countless fun moments together. One of the funniest was at a funeral in Kumasi. At a previous funeral in my village, people had jumped in to dance, so when the music started in Kumasi, Yaa Yaa jumped in — and I did the same. Our friends were amazed because we had been sitting far apart, yet somehowwe both started dancing at the same time. We laughed endlessly about it. Moments like that remind me howmuch we have in common. Our friendship has always been democratic —no misunderstandings, no arguments, no ignoring each other. Yaa Yaa truly lives by God’s word. She carries the love the Bible teaches. She is God-fearing, generous, and always willing to go the extra mile. When I was very ill and needed to go to the hospital urgently, she had never driven an automatic car before, but my houseboy showed her the basics, and she drove me there without hesitation. She does everything out of genuine love, not for recognition. On your 80th birthday, I thank the Lord for how far He has brought you. Because of your good heart, God has added many years to your life. I pray He continues to protect you, give you strength, and bless you with good health into your old age, even when you can no longer do all the things you do so well. Ceci The Birthday Journal 143

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTAyMTM3NQ==