My first encounter with AuntieMonique was through my cousin, Dr (Mrs) Pauline Boohene, of blessed memory, back in 1987 while Polly was attending medical school. Polly spoke fondly of a kind, warm-hearted lady she had met on the Tech campus who had become a mentor to her. I finally met AuntieMonique myself at Polly’s wedding in 1995, where she served as the Dame of Honour. To me, she has always been “AuntieMonique,” while my husband calls her “Okyeame.” AuntieMonique is a remarkable, trustworthy, and Godfearing woman. Her advice is reliable in any situation, and her readiness to help anyone in need truly sets her apart. She is a mirror image of the lady in Proverbs 31. AuntieMonique provided valuable support during a challenging period in my life. Her traditional and faithbased guidance was instrumental in helping me regain optimism and confidence for the future. One of her favourite phrases is, “Ewiase, biribiara wo mu bi.” AuntieMonique possesses effective methods for alleviating burdens and navigating challenging situations. Her keen sense of humour helps to ease tension during difficult moments. Every relationship faces misunderstandings, but with AuntieMonique, these have only deepened our love and friendship. AuntieMonique is unique, dependable, and awesome, and I am grateful for her wholesome love and affection. Four score years of excellence, AuntieMonique! May your wisdom and love continue to guide us for many more years to come. Nana Abena We first met AuntieMonica in 1984. To us, she is both Auntie Monica and GrandmaMonica. She is a loving, humble, and affable woman—always welcoming people into her home, where they quickly become part of her family. One of our favourite memories is how she graciously agreed to perform the naming ceremonies for all our children. Her grandchildren remember her for her incredible cooking and the care she always took to ensure they ate well, especially during their final years at university. From the very first day we met her, we saw a humble person who consistently seeks the well-being of her children and everyone she encounters. She has a gift for making people happy and is always full of smiles. There hasn’t been a misunderstanding per se, though once she gently reproached me for wanting our first naming ceremony to be “low key.” In her view, my idea was too minimal, and she quickly took it upon herself to organise the ceremony in a modest but meaningful way. We are deeply thankful for how she has opened the doors of her family to us, making us feel like part of hers. We pray for overflowing blessings and goodness upon her life—today and always. Lawrence Donkor and Family 98 The Birthday Journal
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