My father and my Pedagogue: Your absence will always be felt throughout my life. No father had a perfect son.
You knew that the son’s flaws reflected his father’s weaknesses, which motivated you to bring out the best in me. I was always not too fond of hard labor, for I believed my brain, my mind, and my talent are more durable than my muscles. I want to be paid to think.
However, you always told me that a man must use his brainpower and use his hands to produce his education and wealth, live a decent life, and boost his intelligence and success not to be a liability but how to become an asset in society.
My Pedagogue, your passing will never make sense to me, for I ever wanted you to live to notice me doing great in life and share your dreams of my life, and accomplishments. I always felt like misfortunes are a disappointment and embarrassment to you.
When I saw your face for the last time that morning, I had a feeling that you died a happy man for a fact that you left a mark that will transform my life and that of my siblings from ordinary men and women to significant role players in this society.
I hope I later in life, I will not find myself wanting and wondering without help. I hope your light will guide me throughout my life.
Oh, my Pedagogue, may AlJannat Firdausi be your final abode and continue to rest in Peace.
Hi Paps!
That was his affectionate name. I attended this school that was quite rigorous and homework usually last till 1 am. Paps will sit with me until I am done. One day he said to me. “Don’t do anymore if you are tired”. I stopped. The Head of school ask why I did not finish and I told him. He called my father. Paps said “Say what you like, but you won’t kill my child”
I know Paps was my father but what comforted me is.
He loved me unconditionally.
He cared for me completely.
And he showed me How to be ME.
Happy Father’s Day to ALL Gambian men, that deserve to be Paps.