AIR-CLINIC WRITING CONTEST #9 : THE YOUNG SHALL GROW OLD AND DIE

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Of all the words we utter, death is the least mentioned. It is no one's favourite word and it is totally avoided for fear that mere mention of it could make it come alive and claim some loved ones. Generally, it is not an eagerly discussed topic and even when it must be discussed, euphemisms are employed to describe it such as: the departure, the going away, the eternal sleep, kicking the bucket etc. The aura that shrouds every death-related discussion depicts the way it is perceived by many: the robber, an evil wind that blows no one any good, a misfortune etc. There are people who believe that death should claim the very old in the society or their enemies but one thing they hastily forget is that it is the way that all flesh must go. We all must die someday and leave this world behind.

When a child is brought into the world, so many hopes abound. The young parents dream big dreams of the little infant and pray that he or she exceeds their achievements in life. Lemon Kpobari was one such child. His birth was greeted with excitement and loud shouts. His parents regaled at his birth. There was so much to eat and drink. At last, a son to continue the family lineage. The pride that shone in the eyes of his parents radiated for all to see. He was their joy and their happiness was complete in him.

The beauty of creation is that there is always room for improvement. Having brought him into the world, Lemon's parents watched him grow. They did their best to nurture him and chiseled away the imperfections in his nature. They raised him to be a fine young man and a fine young man, he grew to be. When he was old enough, he was sent to school and he continued with his schooling till he finished his secondary education. After which he was apprenticed to learn mechanical engineering. As is the way of every focused soul, he learnt engineering so well that he was soon settled with his own shop.

A time comes in the life of every man when he seeks out a companion. When the time was right, Lemon responded to the romantic pulls of the heart. He allowed himself to be loved and started a family. In all, he did not shy away from serving his creator. He was so humble that everyone found it easy to relate with him. He bore people's problems as his and wouldn't rest until he had found a solution to their problems. I vividly recall being in the hospital the two times I was involved in auto-accidents. Steadfast as a rock, Lemon was there speaking hope and providing solace.

Having grown to see life through aged eyes, Lemon did not fail to instruct at the slightest opportunity. He dished out counsel. Always an amiable soul, people flocked to him and found it easier to relate with him. Towards the end, his body weakened and he struggled with the illnesses that plagued him. He fought as only a man could fight. At the end, when it looked like he had conquered and was making rapid recovery, he bowed and slept forever.

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Here is my story about the fullness of life. Lemon was born, lived to a ripe old age and died. I received this shocking news this evening from his son and though he lived to see his sons, daughters and grandchildren, it still hurts badly that he is dead. Adieu Lemon. Who will fill the bulk you left behind? Saying goodbye to you is the heaviest burden of all my years. This is truly another pain I have to bear.