HappyBirthday to themost wonderful Grandmother! On your special December day, I celebrate the warmth, love, and joy you’ve shared with all of us. Your wisdom and strength have shaped our lives in ways words can hardly capture. You’ve built an incredible legacy of love and faith that continues to inspire every member of our family. May your 80th year be filled with good health, laughter, and the same grace you’ve always shown. We love and celebrate you deeply, Grandma. Natasha Asante Happy 80thBirthday, GrandmaMonica! What I love most about you is your ability to change the world in your own way. You have this gift of leaving people better than you found them. Whether it’s a neighbour, a friend, or even a complete stranger, you always leave behind a spark of wisdom, a kind word, or a little life lesson tucked into the conversation. People walk away from you not just smiling, but actually thinking differently about life. On top of that, you are an incredible educator — someone who teaches not just from books, but from the way you live your life. Some of my most cherished childhood memories are from visiting you in Kumasi. We’d go to church together, share conversations, read way too many books, and simply enjoy being around you. Looking back, it wasn’t about any grand activity; it was about the feeling of being wrapped in your presence. And of course, your 70th birthday —what a day! It felt less like a party and more like a reunion of hearts. All of us cousins and family members came together, and for a moment, it felt like the world paused so we could celebrate your life. The laughter and joy of being together made it unforgettable for everyone. If there’s one thing you always say to me, it’s, “Herh, ka Twi!” You never miss a chance to remind us that our language is part of who we are, and that no matter where we go in life, we should never lose that connection. You even point to examples from shows like KumkumBhagya, joking that if Indian actors on TV could speak Twi, then surely we had no excuse not to! The way you say it, half stern, half playful, makes it impossible not to laugh, even as I realise you’re completely right. What makes you happiest is simple and beautiful — you radiate joy, especially when surrounded by family and friends. And if there’s one place where your happiness absolutely shines, it’s at church. It’s as if church isn’t just your happy place; it’s your home within a home. Personality-wise, you are both kind and strong. You carry a gentleness that makes everyone feel welcome. Raising four children to become the uncles and aunties I look up to today is no small task, but you did it with love. Because of you, Grandma, our family is not just a collection of individuals; we are a close-knit unit. One of the moments that made me most proud of you was during our visits to Kumasi. Whenever we went to church with you, I noticed howmany people respected you, admired you, and knew you by name. It wasn’t just casual greetings; it was the kind of respect that comes from years of kindness and genuine connection. Seeing how deeply valued you are in your church community made me realise just howmuch of an impact you have on the lives around you. That quiet influence, built on love and friendliness, is something I’ve always carried with pride. What inspires me most about you is the way you bring order, strength, and unity into everything you touch. You have a natural sense of order and cleanliness, but more than that, you know how to guide and educate people with grace. On this special day, we celebrate not only your years but the love, wisdom, and strength you’ve shared with all of us. May your heart be as full as the joy you’ve given, and may this birthday remind you just how cherished you are. Love, Kwaku Aninagyei Asante The Birthday Journal 149
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