MOTHERHOOD

Sitting in my sister’s living room, watching her with her family I thought I needed to write a piece on motherhood. Well biologically I’m not a mom yet but by my way of life and environment I am a mom to so many. Infact I’m a grandma … lol. Lemme explain before you start rolling your eyes. I have this young lady who many years back I had taken under my wings as my daughter. She sent me a text on the 1st of Jan telling me I’m now a grandma. So you see I’m a grandma *winks*

I left my sister’s home and I ignored the thought of writing this piece. Then on New Year’s Day I got invited by my childhood friend to spend the day with her and her family. Let me mention that my friend is heavily pregnant and she has an energetic male toddler. I watched as she tried to get herself around, attend to her toddler, get the cooking done and still attend to her guest. It was great joy and pleasure for me to help her do the cooking and cleaning. When we were done I watched as she slowly went to get a shower, she got back and sank into the sofa with a plate of food she no longer had appetite to eat and she still had to pacify the toddler who didn’t understand why his mom would not give him so much attention. By the time I was leaving her house that evening I became convinced that I needed to write this piece on the joy of motherhood to celebrate all mothers. 

Watching my sister and my friend I could see that the joy of motherhood comes in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times. But amid the challenges there are shining moments of joy and contentment. Motherhood is indeed a valley of tears and a mountain of immeasurable joy. Not just because mothers go through so much for the sake of their stretching, growing children, but because they give of their very physical substance to nourish them and it costs them something. I have watched pregnant mothers stagger under the weight of the illness and fatigue of pregnancies that seem to drain their very soul. They cry out in anguish as they labor and give birth. However, complete joy sweeps through the mother as she holds her baby in her arms for the first time. It is the great and mysterious gift of motherhood. They say that immediately after the birth, they forget the pain and everything that they had being through during the pregnancy.

No one can tell you exactly what to expect as you step into the phase of motherhood. It’s something you unravel and understand yourself and find what works for you. In the first few years of motherhood, no one ever tells you how inevitably hard it is going to get. You just learn from your experiences. What amazes me the most about these mothers is that I can see it never gets easier and I guess they were afraid at the beginning but all you ever see on their faces is overwhelming joy and pride as they nurse their babies into healthy and strong children. 

For the typical African woman she still needs to ensure the hubby is well taken care of and attended to *smiles*. Of course she still needs to keep the house running well amidst all the chores and wifely duties. And if she is a working mother, she needs to ensure her work doesn’t suffer for all the times she had to stay up nursing the baby at night. Who says being a mother is not a big deal. Just as motherhood is filled with incredible highs it is filled with incredible lows. It is tremendously hard, demanding, and at times frustrating. I had no idea how demanding motherhood was until I watched my close friends and sister become mothers. But this doesn’t even elucidate it well because I’m not there yet.

According to my sister “guess there is a grace God gives to Mothers and strength that comes from within which you don't even know is there until you need it and reach for it. With time you don't even realize the effort it takes anymore it just becomes normal. But there are days hmmm you just want lie and be selfish but the mother in you won’t let you...lol.” 

To my mum who never thinks we are too old to be looked after and cared for, to my sweet sister who is now a mother that inspires, to my dearest daughter who just became a mother, to my precious friends who have all those adorable babies that make me feel like a mother already, and to every mother out there I doff my hat to you. 

“Motherhood is a choice you make everyday, to put someone else's happiness and well-being ahead of your own, to teach the hard lessons, to do the right thing even when you're not sure what the right thing is...and to forgive yourself, over and over again, for doing everything wrong.” ― Donna Ball.

Take a Moment to Soak it in

"Take a moment to soak it in, relax and be grateful. Appreciate where you are on the way to where you are going, appreciate your progress.” That was the sermon that beautiful Sunday morning. The preacher continued “Stop what you are doing, pause for a minute and just take it all in. Take a moment to feel it and enjoy what you have now before you get carried away with the next thing you want.” Hearing those words took me back to a period/time when all I could do was soak it all in.

Stepping into 2017, I thought I had a plan on how I wanted everything to play out. I had carefully prayed and drawn up my goals and plans for 2017, but, what I didn’t consider was that, plans do change. Things we did not anticipate pop up and it looks like everything is getting all messed up and we feel like we are drowning, unsure of the next step to take. In moments like this, we tend to forget every other thing and all that clouds our mind, thoughts, and actions are how do we get over this, how do we handle it, how do we come up with a solution, how do we raise the money, how do we mend the relationship, how do we get the job, how do we get well again, how do we get over the bitterness and rage, how do we pass that exam, how do we … so many questions asked. 

The first quarter of the year, for me, went as planned but then, I didn’t see what was coming in the 2nd quarter. Some things came up and it looked like I was going to be homeless by the end of April... Yeah, I just said homeless *wink*... I was having some bit of accommodation issues. The 'ish' with it was that I never saw that coming at the beginning of the year so I did not have a plan. Within three weeks I needed to find a new place, raise the money, get it set up and move into it. I obviously didn’t know where to start from or what to do. I felt so confused, dejected, angry, frustrated, helpless plus I had an examination to prepare for.

At the time, I was at my wit's end and I wasn’t certain how I was going to go about it. However, I had a friend who kept telling me “Seyi, it’s no big deal, you just have to make the first move and every other thing will fall in place. Everything always sorts itself out.” Surprisingly within that 3 weeks, everything did sort itself out. I had some good friends who did all they could to ensure I settled down nicely. 

That night after my friends (Bolanle, Teedee and Tope) left, I kept saying thank you over and over again, I love you guys. I just paused in the middle of the room noticing what was around me and happening in the present moment and all I could do was soak it all in. For minutes I stood there not saying or doing anything, I was just appreciating and admiring the moment of what I had which no one could see. At that point nothing else mattered, I was simply grateful for where I was. It was magical. I wasn’t thinking about sorting the remaining bills, arranging the house, decorating, reading for my exam... I just stayed in the moment and I was very grateful. That was my moment when I soaked it all in.

Life happens fast. Whether we’re looking at the big picture or just day-to-day tasks, we always seem to be in a rush to get to the next thing. But in the hustle and bustle of it all, it seems like we’re fast-forwarding through some important stuff. We’ve gone from skimming the daily news to skimming everything. Many times we want something. We desire it, we work so hard towards it, we press to get that thing, and we pray to get it. When that thing finally comes, we need to take some time to soak it in, be grateful for it before we rush off to the next thing. That way we see the magic and miracles in our everyday lives.  

You got the job you wanted, take a moment to soak it in before pondering on your bills.

You got admission in school after so long, soak it in before worrying about school fees.

You passed that 1st stage of the exam, soak it in before worrying about the next stage.

You got pregnant, soak it in before getting anxious about wanting a boy instead of a girl. 

You finally got married, soak it in before worrying about getting pregnant.

Yes, we need to plan ahead for the next phase but it is important we enjoy every moment as they come, appreciating our achievements while working towards achieving greater ones. Try to stay present. How often are we truly present in our lives? It’s hard, isn’t it? We have so many things to do, place to be, people to see. We all know that we should slow down and enjoy life more. We may try for a little while, but then we’re off to the races again, filling our lives with more busyness and distractions.

Lean into the moment and don’t be afraid to just slow things down. It’s taking little moments in the day and just really treasuring the moments that bring out the beauty of life. Those small victories are important in winning the war.

Take a deep breath. Soak in this moment for all that it is.

IT ENDED WELL . . .

Sometimes, I wake up in the morning feeling a little bit grumpy because it's time to do it all again. Same routine everyday! Nothing different, or spectacular or probably dramatic. It's just the same old thing! On days like this, I wished I could stay in bed, pull the sheet over my head without having to do anything. Knowing that isn't an option, I just stay in bed for awhile juggling thoughts in my head, I then have some conversation with God. Hesitantly, I get out of bed, shower, get dressed, put on some bright makeup, and then go to work. 

Could be you feel the same way too . . . These are days I sleuth over my life lived, to ask, is this how I've planned all along? 

My psyche is to plan for everything, being meticulous, prim to the gilt ensure I have a well laid out plan. I always want to understand and give a reason or answer to everything in my life. I don't like to be caught off guard or in the middle of unpleasant surprises. 

Life is so daily and often filled with uncertainty, a reality that can make me very nervous. I want to know what the plan is and how that plan is going to be implemented. Details! I need details! The problem with people like me is that when our plans gets altered in anyway, it actually almost tears us down. Though I will always put up the boldness like it's all under control, deep within me I am probably shattered and a complete wreck.

Sitting all alone, looking at 2016 and how well I thought I had planned for 2016, I would say, it’s been a good year but a really tough season with lots of topsy turvy ups, unplanned events and the goosebumps of economic recession. Dare I say, for our country, tensions are running high, so many uncertainties and it's incomprehensible complexity

Now, wrapping up the year,trying to do my checks and balances, I'm not exactly sure 2016 went as planned. Many of the things entrusted to me in life were beginning to feel more like burdens than blessings. There were just a lot of little things swamping my thoughts. Feelings of inadequacy. There are so many things I’m responsible for and I'm not sure I got them all done before the end of the year. I do enough to keep things from sinking. But I just wonder if I did everything well. I wonder if I kept the relationships in my life going well. I wonder about a lot of things . . . For me when things aren't t going as planned, I build walls around my heart and I don’t want to let anyone in, especially if I know they’ll challenge me. Maybe it’s because I’m who I am, or because I am fearful of unfamiliar turf. I throw out people that matter, when feeling weak or vulnerable. 

In the last few days of this year, I planned out a trip to Ilorin, so I could spend sometime with my childhood friend and her family. Initially, trusting my makeup, which is to cancel the trip, on a second thought, I told myself I needed to do something different. Even though the trip was unplanned, it was the one best decision I've made this year. Could I pause to say, my friend has got 3 boys, ages 7, 5 and 4 so I call her Toyin and her squad. 

Spending time with them, watching them turn the house upside down, watching the boys fight, watching their mum settle fights, watching them play and all that . . . It brought so much rays of light to my prism heart. 

Year 2016, didn’t exactly go as planned I didn't achieve all I wanted, yet there were many wonderful things, which I didn't ask for that I got. The gift of each new day in 2016. The blessing of good health. The strength and grace to keep the office going. The promotion at work. The victories I have. The jewels of goodly sort that I call my family, my love for you guys is beyond what words can express. Oluwatamilore and Nadiv, I love you to the moon and beyond. For my mum and dad, thank you for moulding me into the woman I have become.Oluwamayowa I would pick you over and over again as my sister. Thank you for giving me an awesome elder brother that I never had. Samuel, Jay and Ladi, thank you for being my bigger fans. Thank you for always cheering me and believing in me. For my Git family, seeing your faces gives me a reason to go on even when I get so close to giving up. You give me the strength to still walk through those doors every day. Bolanle, Modupe, Oluwatodimu, and Motun I can't call you colleagues. I call you my family. My love for you guys is far beyond phantomable words. Hope, Omolola, Tope, Opeoluwa, Temi, Ebuka, Tunde, Abiodun, I hold you dear to my heart. For the rare gift of good friends that I have in my life. Damola, Rali, Morenike, Kofo, Bukky, Molly, Femi, Inioluwa, despite the distance between us, our friendship still stands. I love you guys plenty. Alimi sometimes I wonder how we are still friends . . . Lol . . . You know I appreciate our friendship and I love you. To Toyin and her squad, thank you always. . . By the way Ayomi is still my favourite member of the squad. . . *wink*. To you my dear friend, I know you would not want me to mention your name. Thank you for being there despite all the odds. Thank you for standing with me through turbulent times. You walked right by my side when I thought the journey was getting too exhausting. I wish I could tell you just how much you mean to me. Faced with the risk of drowning, you remained as an anchor for me. I love you so very much and you know you are irreplaceable. To the author and finisher of my faith. . . Oluwa e tobi. Ko si eni ti mo le fi se akawe yin.

Indeed, I have so much to be grateful for looking back at the year 2016. It didn’t go as I planned but I can say it ended well.

WHAT IS YOUR REASON...?

Relishing my cup of hot chocolate I could smell something in the air. There was just something about the atmosphere that felt a bit special for a few minutes . . . it was the smell of Christmas . . . I giggled when I remembered my childhood memories of Christmas. Oh yes . . . Traditionally, every festive season, birthdays and special occasion was a thing to look forward to in my family. My mum always wants to celebrate and be happy not to forget my dad who was also fun loving. The house gets decorated; the Christmas cards and hampers keep rolling in; picnics and parties get planned; a lot to eat and drink; lots and lots of cooking, visits from friends and family, gifts and so many more. However, whatever the plan was, we always spent every festive season together as a family. As we grew older the fun in it started to drop because one after the other we had to start leaving home and moving on with different pursuits of life. I loved holidays then but I suddenly realized I am not a big fan of plenty celebrations and all. I would rather stay where ever I am, get enough movies, a few good friends and chocolates to keep me company . . . *smiles*. 

So that morning when I smelt Christmas, I had smiles on my face and I thought to myself “I need to write something about Christmas”. I pondered on what to write on my way to work the next day. Should I write something about the list of movies to watch during Christmas (I love Christmas movies). Should I write on the list of gifts to get for loved ones by the way my sister taught me the art of giving during Christmas, no matter how little the gift was, she would make lots of gift boxes and careful ensure every gift she got was beautifully wrapped. Should I write on places to visit during Christmas? Should I write on activities to do during Christmas? Finally I thought “what’s the point writing about the holidays when I don’t even have plans for myself”.

Awesomely, I walked into the office that day and I saw a colleague wearing a Christmas cap . . . yes the white and red Christmas cap. She wore it elegantly throughout the day not minding she was the only one wearing a Christmas cap in the office. I didn’t get to ask her reason for wearing the Christmas cap but every time I bumped into her that day I had a look of admiration. For her Christmas had started whatever her reason was. She didn’t have to wait until the 25th to celebrate the holidays. She was already making it what she wanted it to be. So I asked myself what will be my reason for celebrating this holiday and what do I want for the holiday. What do I want for Christmas? Before close of work that day I already knew what I needed to write about . . . What is your reason . . . ? 

The holiday is just around the corner. For some people, that thought spurs exciting memories of beautifully decorated tables filled with scrumptious meals, festive shopping, vacation, partying, family time, and brightly wrapped gifts . . . For some others, they are totally indifferent because it just affords them enough time to rest and take some days off the hustle and bustle of each day. And surprisingly for a few others, who due to one reason or the other do not see the need to be merry – especially those who have had a difficult time of some sort in the course of the year - the holiday season is a very difficult and dark time that is to be endured rather than enjoyed. I was walking down the office hallway with my friends and we saw an office beautifully adorned with Christmas decoration. One of us then said “when would the decoration for our office arrive”. My other friend smiled and said “the money for that would rather be used for something else”. He had said this in view of the latest slogan everywhere “economic recession” . . . lol. Then again he said “in fact what’s merry about the Christmas”. Immediately it hit me again that for you to really appreciate and enjoy this holiday, you would need a reason. Later that day sharing a drink with my friend over some conversation, without saying it out in my head I knew I had an answer to the question he had asked earlier. My answer was “you have been my friend all through the year, that’s one reason to celebrate the holidays”. Another reason I have to celebrate is because Christmas this year falls on a Sunday and I would get to go to church to celebrate the Christmas with God. Another reason I have to celebrate is because I became an aunt this year with the gift of Oluwatamilore and Nadiv. Another reason is the excitement of getting an opportunity to go gift shopping. I sure do have a lot of reasons.

The end of the year is a time I think we should find a reason to celebrate in whatever way we can . . . if we choose to focus on the victories and joys we have experienced during the year, the good times of many laughter, the everyday little miracles, the fun times with friends and family, the precious gift of true friendship, we will definitely find a reason to celebrate this holiday. Let us put aside the economic recession, the challenges around, the stop gap . . . *some people with understand what this means* and so on.

Christmas can be a true celebration of fresh starts and new beginnings. A period you take time off your busy schedule and just give yourself a nice treat. Perhaps you wanna go to the park with the children riding on horse backs, playing games and taking a roller coaster ride. You could be like my colleague who without knowing gave me an inspiration to write this piece. You could decide to put a smile on someone’s face with a surprise gift no matter how little. You could be like a special friend of mine who ensures we come together at the beginning of every year to have plenty fun.

Find a reason to celebrate the holidays. Take off the hat, let your hair down, laugh so hard, dance around a little, and make memories . . . enjoy this holiday. 

I LOVE DOING DISHES

This write-up is kinda different from my regular writing. Before I started writing I thought to myself "who would wanna read something about dishes." However, I decided to write it anyway... lol. 

There is something about doing the dishes that is relaxing. I love washing dishes. I love the simple yet important task of washing plates. The first time I said that out loud to myself it was bizarre because I never actually realized I loved doing dishes. I recently discovered my love for doing dishes.

It was a beautiful Monday morning and I was not going to work because I had taken some days off work to spend time with my sister and my little nephew. That morning mum said the baby bottle sterilizer needed to be washed. Before I could do that I needed to do all the dishes in the sink so I could have enough space to wash the sterilizer. Bit by bit I piled all the dishes up in one of the sink while I washed in the other. In no time all the dishes were completely washed and dried. By the time I was through with all the dishes and the baby sterilizer I felt a wave of pleasure sweep through me. I was having a beautiful morning already because I enjoyed every morsel of what I had just done. 

Yeah, I love washing dishes. It’s engaging, to me, because I make it so. While it is possible to wash dishes without paying attention to what you are doing, letting the mind drift where it will, my love for it comes from the times when I do it consciously. It is surprising when I hear people say doing dishes is unpleasant. To my mind, the idea that doing dishes is unpleasant can occur only when you aren’t doing them. Once you are standing in front of the sink with your wristwatch off, your sleeves rolled up, your hair pulled back in a pony tail and your hands in the water, it is really quite pleasant. I enjoy taking my time with each dish, being fully aware of the dish, the water, the soap, and each movement of my hands . . . the dishes themselves and the fact that I am here washing them is beautiful. I must confess it takes me a bit longer to do the dishes sometimes, but I enjoy every bit of it. Washing the dishes with patience and attention is a perfect opportunity to develop a love affair with the simple things of everyday life. 

Occasionally the mundane things are the things that bring us the most pleasure. Things we actually take as insignificant or unimportant are the little things we need to remind us of the simplicity of life. It gives us the chance to take a little peek into the tiny but enormous world of simply noticing what is around you, and engaging fully with it. 

CHERISH EVERY MOMENT

Cherish the moment before it becomes a memory. – Author Unknown

Why is it so hard for me to stop working and just have fun? Why is it so hard for me to just pause and take in the beauty of each day. Other people have no trouble doing this. They look for any reason to drop all the work files, ditch the house cleaning, postpone the cooking, turn off the computer, and head to the movies. Or the lounge. Or the mall. Or the park. Or shopping. Or dancing. Sometimes I wish I were more like that. But then even though I like to have some fun, I'm the one who wants to make sure we get all the work done first — before any fun begins. The only problem is that the work is never done. When one is done, another one is waiting right there to get started.

A few years ago through a mutual friend I had the distinct privilege of becoming friends with this amazing guy. We exchanged contacts and kept in touch with each other. It didn't take long for me to realize what an amazing person I had become friends with. He’s very passionate and excited about everything in life. Even the smallest insignificant stuff gives him a reason to see beauty all around him. One thing was unmistakable to me about him, his passionate embrace of the magnificent and how simply he took life. He’s a friend I hardly ever see but we talk from time to time. Every time I have a conversation with him, there’s always a reason to see the beauty and splendor all around me. For him everything was beautiful and amazing in its own way. He would encourage me to take a break off work, have fun, spend time with people, hang out, and go partying. "Just take a break, relax and have fun" he would say. "It's not all about work, there is life outside work."

Talking to him always jolted my heart telling me to ignore the uptight part of me that took everything too seriously or the task-oriented part of me that wanted to work and tune out what was going on around me. The problem with people like me though we fail to admit it, is that sooner or later we get bored with all the things we surround ourselves with because we are too focused on the task at hand begging for our attention. We learn to appreciate the simplest of things in our lives only when it becomes a rarity. Sometimes we don’t realize how big the little things in life really are. The little things in our everyday routine are what unite us to the bigger things in life. The small enjoyable things are all around us. Oh, how easy it is to get carried away with so many distractions that cloak our everyday life. We lose sight of the grandeur and colorful art that exist even in the most insignificant places. Maybe we all need a reminder. Something that constantly reminds us of the beauty that lies around. Someone just like my friend that bumps us out of the world we have built for ourselves to see the beauty and fun that lies around us and live in the moment. To take out time to love and appreciate those we care about. 

My idea of loving others is often shown by serving them. But some people feel loved when I simply spend time with them. And for some, that time needs to be a little less task-oriented and a lot more laughter-filled. Now I have to be intentional about having fun. Initiate getting together with others. Say yes when invited. Stretch outside my comfort zone. Exchange more pleasantries with colleagues. Let my hair down and just laugh like no one is watching. Enjoy the amazing weather. Smell the freshness in the morning air on my way to work. Appreciate everything no matter how tiny.

The truth is work will always be there — but the people might not be and the moments might be gone.

EMPIRES FALL, WORDS ENDURE...

Hi friends, I was looking back on my 2015, the highs and lows. Without doubt, the experience at GIT is of some striking significance. Working with every one of you was a beautiful experience and I will continue to savour those moments we shared. I just wanted to ask you if you remember the 23rd day of September, 2015; because that day, sweet words flew around for you. You’ve forgotten? Well, don’t feign forgetfulness because you feel those words were written on some “worthless” pieces of paper amidst some affectionate end to the stay at LawPavilion for some of us. Let me remind you that as Edward Thorndike remarked,”colours fade, temples crumble, empires fall...words endure.” Those thoughts about you endure still and as the wheel of the year docks at Revelation, I am offering this piece as a reminder of the beautiful side of you. They could be keys to reflection, appraisal, and belief and so on. But do not forget that just like Anne Bradstreet noted, “sweet words are like honey, a little may refresh but too much gluts the stomach.” Therefore, do not be overwhelmed, you are far from being the finished article. Act on these words, remember Buddha when he said

“However many words you read, however many you speak, what good will they do if you do not act on them” 

I firmly believe that these words below for each individual capture, to a reasonable extent your person, so continue being the awesome being you are. I wish you a Merry Xmas and a fulfilling 2016 in advance. Continue being beautiful! Shine bright!!!! 

WORDS FOR ABIMBOLA ODUBANJO

“Your ready wit and your smiles are simply top notch” - Anonymous

“She is friendly and hardworking” - Anonymous

“On the surface, one would not fully understand who you really are. You are calm and reserved; you are one of a kind, smart, organised, well behaved, intelligent and composed. You carry out your work with diligence and commitment. Thank you for being one who could fit into any position.” - Anonymous

“I love Bimbo’s sweet nature, slim figure, beautiful smile and especially her fashionable dress sense. She is pleasant to be with and thus she is one of the people I will miss most. *kisses*”- Elekwa

“You always look sweet. I love and appreciate how you dress.” - Anonymous

“My one and only drama queen, your drama makes me day. You are such a caring sweet and nice babe.” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR BABAFEMI ADEYEYE

“Jovial, funny, witty. I would definitely miss your jokes. Don’t stop smiling. The sky is your starting point.” - Anonymous

“...ma sure guy and a good and caring friend. What I love most about him is his efficiency, dedication to work and to Taiwo. Keep it up bro.”- Elekwa

“A good friend, full of beautiful, graced and rib-cracking words. You always see the best in everyone. I will miss you.” - Anonymous

“Cheerful and funny” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR BABATUNDE SALAMI

“I think Babatude Salami dresses very well. He seems to be someone who cares about how he looks and takes the time to put himself together. It is admirable to see a young man who understands that he should dress like where he is going” - Anonymous

“I’ve always admired you from school, you are such a gentleman. Never let go of that part of you it’s really beautiful. I think guys should come and learn from you. And you are such a humble man.” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR BUKOLA

“Bukola is wonderfully efficient at her work. Errors never escape her. I especially admire the fact that whatever errors she finds, she lists them out orderly and thereafter presents the “shopping list” to the defaulter without making a fuss about it or making the person feel like an idiot.”- Elekwa

“...my mentor. Just brilliant. I love you like that!” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR BOLAJI

“Thanks for your concern and care. She is so humble, I love you sis.” - Anonymous

“I like the way you talk” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR DAYO FASINA

“Thanks for being kind.” - Anonymous

“Baba D, your words and gesticulations make me smile. Thank you GIT; take home to mama.” - Anonymous

“Shout out to Baba Dee, I love your suits o. Olenu jare.”- Elekwa

“You are down to earth and one of a kind.” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR DAMILOLA AKINTUNDE

“A ready smile and a usual troublemaker” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR DAMILOLA ADEDIRAN

“...is such a cute guy. He dresses well.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR DAMILOLA DAWODU

“My ever-packaged love in GIT, please keep up being you always, the real you. Miss you plenty.” - Anonymous

“I simply love the way Damilola Dawodu walks; she walks like a model. She also has a lovely smile. I’m tripping for you Dami. *kisses*” – Elekwa

“Love your heels and your beautiful dresses. I admire your efficient attitude towards work.” - Anonymous

“...reserved, intelligent and deep. One needs to get close to unearth the treasure that you are.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR EBUNOLUWANIMI

“I love your vivacious smile. I love how forthcoming you are with things. I LOVE YOU SIS” - Anonymous

“In you, I saw the demonstration and display of love without discrimination. You are loved.” - Anonymous

“Esohe! You are good at creating remarkable moments. You are indeed a total package. Keep it real!” - Anonymous

“You are one of the women I always want to meet. Your focus and love for God are really inspiring.”-Damilola Dawodu

“Caring” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR EBUKA OKAFOR

“You encouraged me to study my bible in the office by your example. Nice one bro” - Anonymous

“Pastor Ebuka is a conformist, admirably.”- Samuel

“Ebuka is WHAO! He’s gonna make a very faithful and dependable friend.” - Anonymous

“My one and only pastor, you are so gentle a king. I like the way you remind me to write everyday so I can become a good writer. I will make you proud someday soon.”- Damiloa Dawodu

WORDS FOR ELEKWA

“My assistant boyfriend, I love you so. You would always have a reason to smile. Continue to be the joy in our hearts.” - Anonymous

“Your comic personality is one I admire. Some might call you noise maker (no be me talk am o) but your presence in any gathering means no dull moment.” - Anonymous

“You are good-natured but playful” - Anonymous

“Indeed you earned being called the senior Annotator. Your intelligence, dedication and commitment to your work are outstanding. You balance work and play with so much ease, not compromising the standard and quality of your work.” - Anonymous

“Cheerful” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR FIYINFOLUWA

“A beautiful and a lovely soul. A ready smile and a willing help. Thanks a bunch. I LOVE YA. Goodbye is hard to say to the matriarch of our family.” - Anonymous

“...I don’t know why I didn’t have many conversations with you. For some reason, I have always wanted to do that but never got around to it. I hope you stay quietly charming, and you keep being there for others.” - Anonymous

“Why are you so cute?” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR FEMI HASSAN

“A great guy with a beautiful soul. Thank you so much.” - Anonymous

“Kind hearted personality. Your kind gestures will be missed.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR FOLAKE HASSAN

“There are quite a number of people that I will love to appreciate and eulogize for their love since I got to GIT. However, I think Folake stands out strikingly for her dedication. She carries out her duties with so much happiness. Never frowning not complaining. I wish her all the best in her future endeavours. You are highly appreciated. I celebrate you” – Olayinka Oladeji

“I appreciate you so much. I love you so much. Thank you for getting my meal with your wonderful smile. THANK YOU SO MUCH SIS” - Anonymous 

“Folake is an ANGEL” - Anonymous 

WORDS FOR GBOYEGA

“Uncle Gboyega, the OAU circle, thanks for your ready wit and ability to make me smile.” - Anonymous

“I love the playful part of you” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR IBUKUN BADMUS

“To our dear Chief Editor, Ibukun a.k.a. Madam High heels, keep rocking those heels.”- Elekwa

WORDS FOR IFEOLUWA OGUNWALE

“Dressing on point at all times. Takes everything easily with a smile. Freely speaks to everyone. Dedicated to his work. One thing i admire about you is that you are always cheerful and full of life.” - Anonymous

“Thanks for that prayer about greener pasture. I can’t forget it. Thanks for making the office lively.” - Anonymous

“A brother and a friend. A day won’t pass without you asking after my wellbeing. I would definitely miss you” - Anonymous

“I noticed the sweet and caring part of you, the first day I got to GIT. I’m glad I met you. I like your voice too.” - Damilola Dawodu

WORDS FOR LILY-CAROL

“Thanks for being a real help. You helped with your car, your magazines comments and smiles.” - Anonymous

“This thought is about Lily. What makes her stand out I how quiet she is and yet she gets her job done effectively, apparently without fuss. It’s a quality I appreciate and would love to emulate. Will I be able to? I think not. Lol.”- Samuel

“My wonderful friend who is always ready to give her listening hear, remember that you re beautiful, smart intelligent and a very virtuous woman.” Ifedayo Ogunwale

“...reserved, intelligent and deep. One needs to get close to unearth the treasure that you are.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR LEYE

“My twin sister’s crush. Continue to live your dreams. *much smiles*” - Anonymous

“...I love how you eat Ponmo and drink coke almost every day. Also, you are a nice and easy-going young person. Thanks for the kilishi” -Elekwa

WORDS FOR MODUPE ADEYEMI

“It’s wow to see you evolve so fast. Love you sis. Thanks for getting my lunch.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR MADAM 'TUTU OF LIFE'

“I love your homeliness and plain-heartedness. Keep it up” - Anonymous

“...you are admired for your industrious nature and willingness to learn.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR MADAM DEBOLA

“Madam Debola’s dress sense is charming”- Samuel

WORDS FOR MADAM BOLANLE

“Madam Bolanle is just good like that. Your warmth and friendliness are priceless.” - Anonymous

“I’m your secret admirer. You are such a beautiful woman.” - Damilola Dawodu

“I have great respect for Madam Bolanle. I think she’s got a very good heart.”-Samuel

WORDS FOR MADAM JUMOKE

“Wow!!! What a wonderful world where I have found a lovely, cute sis, just don’t know how to describe her....like the way she talks, love the way she chats with people with her sexy voice and most especially, the way she smiles...love you dear, gonna miss you.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR MONICA

“I love Monica’s horrible laughter and her constant “boning face”. I love the fact that she has given me Tom Tom and Baba Blue wella” -Elekwa

WORDS FOR OLUWATODIMU ADEKEYE

“A nice and well-mannered young man. Keep it up.” - Anonymous

“...SOS of GIT! Your work rate is scary! One hardly knows when you are under pressure. Indeed, you are GIT’s undisputable MVP.” - Anonymous

“I cannot help but announce how gentle a man you are!” - Damilola Dawodu

“...Todimu is another guy I have huge respect for. He does not flinch at the talk of target or under whatsoever form of pressure. He’s got some thick skin.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR REBECCA

“An amazing lady that amazes me. Many things catch her interest from politics to football and of course, law” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR SAMUEL SOLADOYE

“Exceptional in every way. Your attitude to work is worthy of emulation. Despite all the pressure that came with the job, you remained calm and still carried out your assignments with enthusiasm. You were entrusted with so much at the same time and you never failed at anyone. You understand the definition of teamwork and team spirit. Without knowing it, you taught me a lot of things which I would always carry on with me. I know you are going places and the sky is your starting point.” - Anonymous

“Cool, gentle, always ready to help. That humble personality of yours is taking you all the way to the top.” - Anonymous

“Your parents trained you well. You are a well brought up young man.” - Anonymous

“I call you “Big Sam” because of your huge intelligence. If you keep up your attitude and charisma, there is no doubt you are bound to be great.” - Anonymous

“He is respectful, he is nice. He is patient; there is no number of times you call him in respect of a case that he won’t answer you.” - Anonymous

“I love Sam’s efficiency and dedication to work even in the face of sickness. I love his girlfriend too.” - Anonymous

“...you are admired for your calm and pleasing personality” - Anonymous

“humility-personified, wonderful personality” - Anonymous

“...your diligence, zeal and passion are commendable. Proud to be associated with you, brother. Brother sly!” - Anonymous

“You are terribly different from what I thought of you when I first saw you. You are so humble, nice and down to earth.” - Damilola Dawodu

“Very polite”

WORDS FOR SEYI FUNMI SOYEMI

“You dress well, you are classy, beautiful and confident but you can be tough at times. Lol” - Anonymous

“You are my “Big boo”. It’s been awesome working with you.” - Anonymous

“..., beneath your firm, sometimes harsh stance is a good heart. You never take it personal. Your maturity is top notch” - Anonymous

“Well, I’m not surprised you are smart, spiritual and beautiful. Ode-Remo babes are born to be totally packaged women. As much as you like to form tough, you are all sugar spice and everything nice on the inside.” - Damilola Dawodu

“...It would be untrue if I say I enjoyed it all through, that I never gave quitting a thought. What got me through this is that there is a line between who you really are and being professional. The hallmark of that attribute is Seyi Soyemi. It’s a part of her that I think, is really unique and adorable.” - Samuel

WORDS FOR SINMILOLUWA MAKINDE

“Very very dedicated vibrant young man. Always eager and ready to work with so much joy. You do have a good heart. God bless you.” - Anonymous

“My one and only Mr. Ije. You bring out the playful part of me, I like it when you listen to my gist and laugh really hard with me You made staying here really fun, Maybe I will miss you.” - Damilola Dawodu

“Humble and respectful” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR TAIWO ALADEJANA

“T-Tolerable, A-Admirable, I- Intelligent (very), W-Wonderful, O-Organized, will miss you. Your left side seatee, UCHE”

“Good-hearted, caring, full of kindness, cheerful giver. Thank God I met you! You’ll be missed.” - Anonymous

“Aladejana Taiwo is 1. Very generous, 2. Kind 3. Easy to talk with 4. Caring 5. Efficient at work.....I don’t remember her being called upon to correct errors in her work many times. She has been a dear friend and I would definitely miss her. *kisses*”- Elekwa

“Cheerful, nice and loving” - Anonymous

“To my beautiful namesake, it’s hard to say goodbye to you who has been less of a co-worker and more of a friend. I’m sad that the joyride of working with you has come to an end. I will miss you my colleague, friend and sister, Taiwo Aladejana. I ask for God’s speed, favour, grace and mercy in all your endeavours.” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR TIMOTHY BAMGBOYE

“Oga Timo, I like your attitude to work; he wasn’t ever late to work.” - Anonymous

“You never came late to work. You do your work diligently. You have a good working relationship with people. Hope you and Sam remain “sly brothers” - Anonymous

“You are going to be a good lawyer. Your questions!!! OMG!!!!!!” - Damilola Dawodu

”Very friendly” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR TOMI OGUNDIJI

“Thanks for helping with your knowledge” - Anonymous

“Tomilayo’s gentleness, patience and perseverance under provocation is worth emulating. You are greatly favoured.” - Anonymous

“Tomi is simply one of a kind. She is the most gentle person in this office. I love the way she smiles all the time. Since I started working here, I never heard her shout or snap at anybody, even when she finds errors in their work. She has a kind heart and I’m sure she would make a damn good wife. May I propose?”-Elekwa

WORDS FOR TOMIWA ILORI

“Cool and calm” - Anonymous

WORDS FOR UCHE EZEUKUNNE

“I love your smile, you are simply wonderful and amazing. Continue to burn for Christ. See you at the top.” - Anonymous

“I think Uche Ezeukunne is a beautiful person both inside and out. It is obvious that she loves God and is always so respectful and kind. She always has a smile on her face. It’s beautiful to see.” - Anonymous

“You are such a sweet and pleasant woman”- Damilola Dawodu

“It is actually difficult to pick out one person out of us all but for the purpose of this occasion I choose UCHE. She is nice, very respectful and I also fell in love with her stepping, her attitude is noteworthy, her smile, perfect...”- Madam ‘Jumoke

WORDS FOR YEWANDE SONOWO

“My wonderful namesake, a lady with a open heart and a ready smile. I LOVE YOU SO” - Anonymous

“You have a very good smile and I love the way you smell, as in you smell really lovely.” - Anonymous

“I love Yewande’s figure: slim shapely and sexy. Plus she’s a good cook. I remember the first time I tasted her food (it was a day before our engagement) mehn! That food was the bomb. It made me fall in love with her all over again...*kisses*...abeg no vex say I expose the fact say we dey engaged. I no fit hide am anymore ni.”- Elekwa

WORDS FOR YOMI OLAYIWOLA

“You helped me to become an analyst by all means, power and opportunity you had. Thanks a lot, I love you and will always remember what you did” - Anonymous

Compiled by:

SAMUEL SOLADOYE