Though she was older than I, Uzoamaka and I were close in age. Because of this, we shared a lot of the same friends. As siblings, we were mistaken for twins because we were in the same class. We started school in the same year and finished together (apology to our parents who had to buy double of all the books and other school materials when they had no twins).
Amaka was a very brilliant girl (or rather "woman") who was successful at everything she attempted. She married soon after school and raised a lovely family.
Hearing the news of Amaka's passing away was a sad event for us. It is hard to accept that she will no longer be with us. She once quoted while advising me: "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass; it is about learning to dance in the rain". Although incredibly difficult, this saying reminds me not to feel sorrow for her demise, but instead to feel grateful that her presence has blessed our lives.
Nevertheless, I admit that it is not pleasant that Amaka's life ended so early when she had so much life left to live. I take solace in knowing that she is now in heaven and God knows the best for us. The memory of her will continue to be in our hearts.
Adieu!
