I met Monica in 1960 when we started FormOne at Yaa Asantewaa Secondary School, though I had known her socially even before then. In boarding school we became close. As a teenager, Monica was everywhere — free, lively, always talking and explaining something. She talked so much we called her ntoa. We moved as a group, eating, laughing, and doing everything together. You couldn’t takeMonica anywhere without her making a new friend. After school, she moved to Kumasi to live with her elder sister, MrsMensah-Bonsu. Her brother-in-lawworked at KMA and helped her find work there, likely as a clerk in the planning department. Every morning before work she stopped by my house; we were inseparable. We ate together, dressed alike, and went to the Students’ Dance whenever we could. Everyone in my home knewMonica — she made herself at ease everywhere. Now, how she met Mr Asante is a story on its own— and quite a funny one. MrMensa-Bonsu was very strict and didn’t likeMonica having boyfriends. Meanwhile, his close friend, Yaw Asante, had quietly taken a liking to her. Because they all belonged to the same social circle, anythingMonica did could easily get back to her brother-in-law. So whenever the group met to chat or dance, we acted as though everything was perfectly innocent. That’s how I ended up playing a key role in their love story — accidentally. WhenMonica andWofa Yaw began befriending each other, I pretended to be the one he was interested in so no one would suspect Monica. Since she and I were always together, it made meeting easier for them. But secrets don’t stay hidden forever. One day, MrMensa-Bonsu sawMonica stepping out of Mr Asante’s car. That was when he realised I wasn’t the girlfriend —Monica was. He was furious. He stopped speaking to me for a while, and whenever I visited, I had to hide in a room to avoid him. Still, Monica and I carried on as usual. We sneaked to dances and returned early before questions arose. Through it all, she remained her cheerful, open-hearted self. With time, everything settled. She marriedMr Asante, and onceMrMensa-Bonsu realised his friend’s intentions were sincere, he gave his blessing — and forgave me. In the end, their love story blossomed in the most unexpected way: through a loyal friend quietly running interference so no one would suspect a thing. Happy 80th Birthday, Monica Rita! Through all of life’s ups and downs, our friendship has remained steadfast. We’ve shared laughter, memories, and countless moments that have shaped us both. I am so grateful for our long-standing bond, for all the years we’ve walked together as sisters and friends. YaaYaa, you take challenges in stride. WhenWofa Yaw passed away, you took up the mantle of completing your home, embracing that responsibility without hesitation. I also admire the way you raised the children — how you cared for them, guided them, and kept them close. You have a remarkable ability to bring them together, nurturing love, unity, and all that truly matters. I thank God for preserving your life all these years, even through challenges like the time you were bitten by a dog at home. The attack was severe and kept you indoors for a long time, yet you healed and carried on with strength and courage. I wish you a long life, free from sickness. You are very religious—may you always keep your faith. May the Lord keep us together as He always has. And just so you know, I’m not the only one allowed to call youMonica Rita—but I’ll always be the one who does it best! Irene 28 The Birthday Journal
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