Olusegun L Amao, MD, FACP 1975-2012

Talkin’ politics again

Dear brother,

You won't be surprised. The world you left has not changed much. (But your people are changed because you left). This time, I return to our favourite past time, that has replayed in my mind countless time. Talking the foibles of politics and making light of the illogicality that it entails. The best example, if any is needed, of the flawed nature of humans.

What has happened so far this year (2016), you would find difficulty to believe. Remember the days back home when as children we were left confused why our friends, neighbours and school mates were ordered to leave the country? The days of 'Ghana must go?' When the woes of the country were blamed on these outsiders mostly eking a leaving in menial jobs. Well it is gradually playing out in the erstwhile bastions of civilisation. Where civilisation and civility is now cast as ‘political correctness’ that must be dispensed with. 

You would be glad to know that here, we did the little we could, travelling long distance, your little niece and nephew in tow, in pouring rain, twisting my ankle in the process to cast our votes for the love of our friends, colleagues and neighbours scared & feeling exposed because of 'fear' by people who look like them. We were on the losing side but as you always say, at the end of the day, all will be well.

Your beloved America is not fearing much better. They are taking back America from some other Americans with a viciousness and a tone that is unbelievably sad. Love is in the air through rabid hatred. A wall will be built to fence off other humans in the name of love. And in this Dystopian reality, Trump, is the unlikely ‘God’ instrument to deliver paradise. But as you know, ironically, his moral compass is not one that any parent would want to expose their kids. Maybe morals are no longer relevant as our faith(s) transforms and societies metamorphose in this endgame.

In a strange twist, even the Royal family is affected by the increasing racial tensions because Prince Harry has got a mixed race American girlfriend! 

I am not overly worried about these events. As we always acknowledge, our story, our future is not in human hand. In the little time that we have here, may we live with it with dignity in the understanding that nothing endures in this life.

This is where we are, just thought to let you know. But perhaps you already know but it is nice to talk as we always do. We are all as well as we could.

May the day come.

Femi 15/11/2016

Reborn

I see you

I see you getting well again

I see you

I see you walking again

I see you, soul brother

I see you getting back again

In the wee hours

I see you you pristine

I see you and will see you again

After I shed this weight

To travel at the speed of light

Just like you.

Here things are always changing

I shall see you there

Where all change come to rest.

Femi, Nov. 15

Residents of the Twilight Zone

(To my brother, Segun & a soldier called Etienne)

Your pain calls to mine

I cry for yours & mine

In this battle we lost

In the field & at home 

The tears, tiny symptoms

In this ocean of pain

When daybreak announces your loss

And sunset teases you endlessly with infinity 

Hating the sunrise, praying for dusk and its darkness 

Your curse is the honour: Gold star mommy?

 

The door becomes a synonym for the Sky

As the heart dies by the minute

Love & pain indescribable 

Pain that makes you forget to breathe

Fellow permanent resident in the Twilight Zone of life

 

And before the throne of Grace

For you and for me

Raging at the snuffling of the lights

I take a knee.

Mother, even this, shall pass.

 Femi, 13/11/17

13/11/17

I counted the days gained

And bless Him for grace

I note the days lost

And look forward to His infinity

May the day come.

Femi 18/09/17

Missing you always…..

Again, that day has returned, marking the 4th year of your journey of no return to eternity. A painful day it was and it has remained.

You have thought me a lot even in your sickness and your untimely death. I have learnt to be strong and take care of others even when I am in pain and infirm. 

I have learnt that there no immortal among us and therefore with each breaking of another day, I give all glory to God. That dreadful time may just be around the corner….

I have always kept your words and carry the fond memories we shared around with me since your departure. Sometimes I laugh from our conversations, much to the bewilderment of those around me…

That you are missed is an understatement, Segun, but I am very comforted yours is an everlastingly peaceful sleep.

Continue to rest in peace, my friend and brother. I love you but God loves you more.

Olukayode Onasanya (Kay) 11/15/2016.  

 A letter to you!

Sege,
It has been 5 full years now since the cold hands of death snatched you away from us....
But not a single day has passed, without a thought of you my dear friend. I speak of you to any ear with enough care to listen. I tell my patients with rough situations, the story of your courage even in the face of the unforgiven brain tumor.
Your friendship was a blessing to me in any way imagined! You have taught me a lot in life and in death...yes, you have, Segun.
Your indelible memory, I have affixed high on the inner walls of my heart, where the turbulence of blood flow can never reach.
You are fondly remembered today and always!
Rest on my dear brother...till me meet again!
Love always!

Kayode, 11/15/2017.