I met AuntieMonica when her husband joined the staff of the Land Economy Department at UST. At the time, she worshipped at the Anglican Church while I attended Our Lady’s Catholic Church in Kumasi, both on the Tech campus, but we often met at social gatherings. I already knew her elder sister, Grace, from the Nurses’ Training College, where all the young Asantes looked up to her as an elder sister. Our friendship truly began one morning when I went forMass and, quite by chance, walked into her wedding ceremony at the Catholic Church —which they had planned to be very small and quiet. As it turned out, our Ladies’ Choir, of which I was part, took over and sang at theMass. That was the beginning of everything! She later joined the choir and brought so much life and energy into it. AuntieMonica was everywhere — always active and full of joy in church activities. Over time, we became more like sisters. One thing I’ve always admired about her is that she’ll speak her mind no matter what. She says things just as they are, and I love that honesty about her. One of my most memorable moments with her was on Uncle YawAsante’s last day on earth. It was a Saturday, and I accompanied her to the hospital. It was such a moving moment when Uncle Yaw asked me to thank AuntieMonica for him, which I did. I left the hospital around 1 p.m., only to hear later that he had passed away at 7 p.m. The rest is history. AuntieMonica is a bold and strong woman— hardworking, always smiling, and very affable. God has truly been gracious to her. She has done a yeoman’s job — congratulations! AuntieMonica, I pray for God’s protection, divine direction, blessings, favour, and many happy days ahead. May the Good Lord bless you and your family, and may you live to be a hundred years! With all my love, Your sister, Maggie Acquaye AuntyMonica and I go way back. We were both proud members of the Asante Cultural Ladies Group, whose motto was “TeteWobi Ka, TeteWo Bi Kyere.” The group was formed in the mid-1970s by the then Asantehene, Nana Otumfuo OpokuWare, at the Cultural Centre in Kumasi. Its purpose was to promote and preserve Asante culture while supporting the Asantehene during traditional events and ceremonies. Those were truly special days. Together, we learned Asantensem, Ebe, and the graceful dances that define our heritage —Adowa, Kete, Mfuntum, and more. Everything about being Asante came alive in that group, and AuntyMonica was always right there — full of grace, laughter, and warmth. We even had our own playful nicknames that made us giggle every time. One would call out, “Atweabeaso!” and the other would respond, “Watwetwe abeaso!” Those little moments of joy and friendship are treasures I still carry in my heart. AuntyMonica wasn’t just a fellowmember — she was a true sister, one whose kindness and spirit made every gathering brighter. Happy birthday. May the Lord bless you as you celebrate your 80th. Love, Mrs. Danso Dapaah 32 The Birthday Journal
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