I first got to knowMrs. Monica Asante, then simply Monica, during her secondary school days. She was a classmate of my younger sister at Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ Secondary School in Kumasi. Even back then, Yaa Yaa, as she was fondly called by her close friends, was known for being warm, very sociable, and accommodating. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that Monica Opuni would one day become my aunt. But as fate would have it, my uncle, Mr. YawAsante, returned from his studies in the UK as a Land Economist and Valuer and married her — perhaps through the influence of his close friend, LawyerMensah-Bonsu, who was married to AuntyMonica’s elder sister, Mrs. GraceMensah-Bonsu. After my uncle’s passing, Mrs. Asante and her children moved from the KNUST campus, where he had been a Senior Lecturer, to Nhyiaeso. At that time, I lived just two houses away. Her motherly charm naturally drew my children to her home — they would always be found playing and spending time there. Yaa Yaa, as I later called her, has always been a devoted Catholic, faithfully attending SundayMass at the KNUSTCatholic Church despite the long distance. Her compassion, sociability, and generosity extend to everyone who crosses her path. On this special milestone of your 80th birthday, my family and I congratulate you, Yaa Yaa. We pray that the good Lord shower His grace on you and endow you with good health, strength, and protection in the years ahead. Yaa Yaa, “Wotiri Nkwa” —Amen! By Mr. Ofori Awuah When we first met in 1962 at Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ Secondary School in Kumasi, I was a “Nino” — a firstyear student — and the first impression I had of her was that she was a senior who was well brought up and very caring. SisterMonica treated me like a younger sister — very loving, very caring, and very helpful. She was there for me in every sense of the word. She was a senior who carried herself with grace, kindness, and humility. I never once saw her bully any junior. She never looked down on the juniors. Her approach to all of us was civil, calm, and polite, which made me love and admire her instantly. I’ll never forget how she travelled all the way from Kumasi to Prampram to give help and comfort me when my mother passed away. That act of love showed me she is, indeed, a friend in need. SisterMonica, you have always been a beautiful example of kindness and compassion. On this special day, I wish you a very Happy 80th Birthday! May the Almighty God continue to bless, protect, guard, and guide you. May He also strengthen you, filling your days with happiness, peace, and good health. Congratulations to you, my dearest friend. May you live many more beautiful years ahead — even beyond a hundred and fifty! Mrs. Martey 20 The Birthday Journal
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