SHE USED TO BE THE SWEETEST GIRL
The words punctured my eyes like a sword to my chest. I didn't believe what I had just read.
I met @nenyebelle three years ago in Oghere where I had gone to host a retreat. She was one of the ushers hired to work at the event. Amongst all the girls, she stood out with her radiant smile that seemed to slow down the sunset. She was warm, friendly, civil and professional. Our brief chat was so hilarious and informative, I instantly fell for her charm.
Even though we exchanged numbers at the end of the event, it was another year before I ran into her again at an event in ikeja. This time she was a guest. We exchanged pleasantries and our chat was brief because we really didn't have a lot to catch up on! This time around she was draped with the poise and composure of a lady who had matured with time while retaining her youthful bounce.
It would be another 6-8 months before I will talk with her again. She had decided to start a business as I had advised. She was creating her own unique flavors for her cocktail business. She complained about the slow patronage and other difficulties. But I encouraged her to continue assuring her that it was just a stepping stone and not a stumbling block.
Well, after finishing her service last year and going at life with positive determination, another car from nowhere lost control, burst into flames and hit the vehicle she was in. The fire extended to her vehicle and sadly she couldn't make it out on time. She had severe burns. This was last month. @nenyebelle fought for her life gallantly. Even though physically she was unrecognizable, her spirit was unmistaken.
She took her last breath on Sunday. Her very first day in sainthood. I don't know what to wish for but I regret the cruelty of tragedy and its disruption of her smooth sail. I pray for her family in this time of grief. Though life goes on, they've been frozen since Sunday.
Dear Chinenye, you lived a good life and though our encounters were few, I'm grateful for the everlasting impression you've left with me. And thank you for being my fan.
Your fan, Bovi.