Dearest Mum
As I pen these words through teary eyes and a heavy heart, I recount the profound impact you had on my life and the lives of many others. Your resilient spirit and unwavering love illuminated the lives of everyone that had the privilege of knowing you. You were the cornerstone of our family, the steadfast anchor amidst life’s turbulent waters. Your impact reverberates through the memories I cherish and the lessons I hold dear. You selflessly devoted yourself to nurturing not just your own children but countless souls who found solace in your presence. Your nurturing spirit knew no bounds, your heart an endless wellspring of compassion. I do not recall a moment growing up where we did not have at least two other people (outside of our nuclear family) living with us.
Growing up with you as my guiding light was a gift beyond measure. Despite the demands of your career, your role as a pastor, and the myriad of responsibilities you shouldered, you never once faltered in your devotion to me and my siblings. Your sacrifices knew no bounds, from endless drives to rugby matches all around the country, where you would get so tired driving us back home that we would have to play the worship songs on full blast and keep the windows down just to stop both of us from falling asleep (you did this week in week out), to the sacrificial gift of a saxophone on my 13th birthday. You were always the only mother who would pick up all of my friends and drive us to wherever we wanted to hang out and patiently wait in the car in the blistering cold winter (heater on full blast) for us to finish and drop us back home. You gave AnjolaOluwa, Oluwatomisin and I the best of yourself without hesitation. Your prayers, like a shield of protection, enveloped us in a divine embrace, reminding us of the power of faith and love. Your unwavering support and tireless efforts to provide for us, both materially and spiritually, stand as a testament to your selflessness and unwavering commitment. Your life was a living testament to the values you held dear – selflessness, love, and unwavering faith.
Your strength, Mum, was unmatched. You were a warrior in every sense – battling life’s challenges with a courage that inspired awe in all who knew you. Your deep faith in Christ was a guiding beacon in your life, and your unwavering prayers and unwavering love overflowed from a heart that knew no bounds.
As you faced the merciless cancer that sought to dim your light, you radiated a joy and peace that defied understanding. Your spirit shone bright, a beacon of hope and joy amidst the storm. Your unwavering faith and indomitable spirit inspired all who met you, drawing the admiration and love of the hospital staff and fellow patients alike. Your selfless act of sharing joy on Christmas day, demanding that I purchase cakes for the hospital team is a testament to the depth of your kindness and compassion, a legacy that will forever endure.
Even in the darkest of times you found courage to hold onto your faith in God and your vibrant personality and beautiful sense of humour shined bright. During our final moments together, you said to me: “Adedamola, God has told me that I have come to the end of my journey, my work is complete”. I could not bear such a thought so I reminded you of Hezekiah and how God added 15 years to his life after the Prophet told him he would not recover from his ill- ness. Mum, you laughed and smiled and said “o ṣe, bible scholar, Mr Hezekiah!!, I am aware! I will have you know I am a pastor, or have you forgotten?”. Your words to me, filled with grace, acceptance, and humour resonated with the profound faith that sustained you throughout your earthly journey. You assured me that our time on this earth is but a chapter in the eternal story of our souls, and that true victory lies in surrendering to the will of the almighty God.
Mum, your legacy of selflessness, love, and generosity is etched in the hearts of all who were privileged to know you. Your life was a testament to the power of serving others and living a life of purpose. Though the pain of your absence weighs heavy on my soul, I am trying to find comfort in knowing that your spirit lives on in the lessons you imparted and the love you shared so freely.
As I grapple with the reality of a world without your physical presence, I cling to the lessons you imparted – to serve Christ, to love unconditionally, and to live a life of purpose and blessing to others. Your memory will forever be a beacon of light guiding me through life’s challenges, just as you did when you were by my side.
Rest well, dear Mother, knowing that your love and legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you. You are forever cherished, forever loved, and forever missed.
Until we meet again, Your loving son, Alade.
Adedamola Mosuro esq.
