I still cannot believe you are gone. It feels like a nightmare, or as though I will wake up from a bad dream. I cannot imagine seeing your picture with the acronym RIP. It is so hard to come to terms with the reality that you have gone to be with the Lord.
Daddy, with all your labour and hard work, you never had much time to reap the fruits. You were always a willing and present father, never shifting your responsibilities to anyone. Baba eleyinju aanu (the compassionate father). You taught me to be dependable and never to rely on another person's effort. You taught me to live a life of integrity, to always stand for the truth no matter what. You showed me the way of the Lord. Everybody knew what you stood for, and you never compromised your faith.
I remember my childhood days with Grandma. Whenever you came visiting, you were always praying in tongues. I did not understand it then. Neighbours would ask, "Deborah, what is your daddy saying whenever he is praying?" and they would laugh, saying, "Daddy Deborah ti gba wèrè mesin" (Deborah's Daddy has added madness to his faith). I used to feel bad and wished you would stop. But Daddy, today I cherish those words "gba wèrè mesin". Later in life, I discovered that if no one has identified you as "gba wèrè mesin", then you are yet to know your position in Christ. And now, even Deborah herself "ti gba wèrè mesin".
Daddy, words cannot truly express how special you were to me and to all of us. You were never selfish, never envious, always ready to go the extra mile to help, even when the person was unwilling.
Now, I realise all those "father-and-daughter" gists and private talks are gone. I will miss them. I will always miss your care, your love, your words of encouragement, and most especially your role in building me up in faith. You taught me never to entertain fear, and I will always remember one of your slogans: "No battle can overcome a true child of God."
Prayer was your lifestyle. You could be on your knees for three days if undistracted. You will always be remembered for your labour of love for the brethren in prayers and fasting, and for your tireless efforts to build others up in the Lord with your unwavering faith.
Thank you, Baba mi owon. Rest on, until we meet to part no more.