2023 was the year i planned to start blogging again, just for the fun of it like old times. Then i got the news...
This was supposed to be a simple draft edit of the eulogy i wrote earlier to honor your memory; it has now been here since January 26th 2023. How has it been more than a year already since you officially became an angel?😢 Its still quite surreal, that we had your One Year Memorial; that you're not just a call/sms/voicenote/Whatsapp/DM/Flight/Walk away from me reaching you. Its now Heavens & Earth between us...
My favorite yellow pawpaw with the brightest smile and boisterous laughter, The Keiko to my Tamiko. Its Day 16 since i got the news of your call to glory. I'm still extremely jarred and processing the news of your transformation from earthly to heavenly body. It seems so final writing this and has been so difficult to collect my thoughts & condense all you embodied into a few words.
From University to NYSC to Yahoo Messenger to Nairaland to Skype to Google Hangout to Facebook to BBM to Whatsapp to Houseparty and many more apps, our friendship blossomed & the times spent together physically were the best; filled mostly with great conversation, love, joy, goofiness, laughter, hugs, food, fun, celebration and occasional tears.
My dearly beloved friend, a truly exceptional Talent & Innovator, Trailblazer & Award-Winner, Lover & Ambassador of Christ- ever ready to share the gospel at every opportunity; TechGirl- UI/UX pioneer, TechNation Ambassador; Artist & Designer, Gamer- gaminegirlie, Writer & Blogger- always wanting to share knowledge, receive feedback and engage; Business savvy, Coolest Geeky Fashionista Chic, Traveler & Explorer, Author-'My Lovely Hair by Ekpemi Anni', Voracious Reader, Fellow Foodie, Anime & K-drama lover; Thoughtful Gift-giver & Host. I could go on and on.
Your outlook on life has always been authentic, giving deeper thought to most things, wise beyond your years; you were ahead of the times, always ready to discuss seemingly ‘tough’ topics with refreshing candor -learning, unlearning & relearning- while sharing insight. You were bold, daring, strong-willed, audacious, resourceful, a 'go-getter', charitable, and more; not afraid to try new things, experiment and reinvent yourself as you saw fit. It was admirable- your curiosity and eagerness to explore the world, your stamina regardless of the situation; your love for God's creation- nature especially flowers; animals- cats & dogs, white wine. lol, etc. You loved being Nigerian- our people, food, cultures, fabrics, art and more- unashamedly & always promoted the good in it.
How can these few words possibly capture the essence of your being?
You lived a well-rounded, full & impactful life and made your mark in such a short time in this world. You showed up in many different ways for so many people (Daughter, Sister, Aunty, Friend, Wife, Colleague, Tutor, Mentor, Counsel, etc.). You have brought so many together in fellowship as part of the body of Christ, creating connections among people with shared common interests. Trust, Faith, Love & Peace were your watchwords.
I'm grateful for experiencing you & your friendship, so many memories made & captured and now more than ever i'm grateful for your digital footprint (Photos, Videos, Blogs, Websites, Social Media, Podcast, etc.) it has been comforting during this period and will be cherished.
You were truly loved by so many and will be greatly missed.
Thank you Yemi for being the best gift & partner from God for my friend, a timely blessing for your 'Honeybear', you showed up so graciously, loving & caring for her even at the most trying times. I pray God consoles, comforts and strengthens you and your family.
'...Like a rainbow fading in the twinkling of an eye, gone too soon'. I'm thankful for your time here with us ToniAnni, heaven's lucky to have you and so was I.
Death is not the end. This isn't goodbye, till we meet again 'ore mi atata', I love you Antonia, Rest in God's arms and enjoy the hymns of praise with the angels. You live on because we have eternal life in Christ.
1 Cor 15
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