Monday, September 05, 2016

Oluwatomiyin XI: THE END

Hello Everyone! Happy New Month! We are in the last stretch of 2016! Wow!!! You made it!!!

I pray that the rest of the days of this year will bring you joy unspeakable, endless testimonies, good news from near and far, open doors, things money can buy and things money cannot buy.  Love you all!

Now to the next and final installment of Oluwatomiyin! I hope you all have enjoyed reading this short story as much as I have enjoyed writing it!

Source: Google




****

That day finally arrived; the house next door was no longer empty. Our new neighbors arrived bright and early on this faithful day. I peered out of my window with so much concentration; paying attention to every detail.

It was a beautiful family, A man, a woman and two children... one girl and one boy. The children looked about five or six years old. They ran around their new compound (front yard) with so much excitement.

And then there were movers, repeatedly climb up and down the back of their truck. There was lots of boxes and baggage. There were lots of beautiful furnishings. It was a sight to behold! This family had good taste.

As I rose from my bed to start the day, I alternated between sightseeing at my window and going about my business. I was so fixated on the sights outside my window that I didn't notice when Mercy came into my room.

"Hello! Tomiyin...what are you looking at?"

She came to join me as I explained.

"Our neighbors are finally moving in!"

"Oooookkkkkaaayyyy"

"I know, don't mind me. I'm so excited."

"Yeah, a little too excited if you ask me!"

“Yeah whatever, no one asked you!” I rolled my eyes.

After a few minutes, I retired from the sightseeing and joined Mercy in the kitchen.
We were making our Special Saturday Brunch. This consists of fried egg stew, fried yam, fried plantain, corn beef stew, chicken sausages, baked beans, steamed veggies and freshly squeezed fruit juice. We looked forward to our Saturday morning ritual every week. The only thing missing was mummy; she traveled for a business trip.

Later on, we decided to head to the Palm's mall. We wanted to go window shopping and watch a movie. The driver dropped us off and was instructed to pick us up in three hours.

Mercy wanted to watch "Frozen", I reluctantly agreed after going back and forth. We agreed to return next week and watch the movie I wanted to watch “12 years a slave". Surprisingly, I enjoyed watching "Frozen", it had a very good storyline; it reminded me that family is one of God's greatest gifts.

After the movie we couldn't help it, we had to stop by Coldstone to get some ice cream. We both love ice cream! We barely got our spoons into our mouths when the driver called to inform us that he was outside. So we gathered our belongings and met him in the parking lot.

Thankfully traffic wasn't too bad. We got home and headed to our individual rooms to prepare for church in the morning. We were invited by a friend to his church "This Present House". We heard a lot of great things about the church and were looking forward to service the next morning.

Just before I called it a night, I decided to peep out the window just one more time. As I did, I caught a glimpse of the woman from next door doing the same. Our eyes met and I quickly drew the curtains back as I was embarrassed because I got caught.

Even though our eyes only met for a few seconds, there was something about that woman. Within those few seconds I felt something that I couldn't describe. Maybe it was some kind of connection? Like maybe we were supposed to meet or something? Or maybe I was just overreacting and overthinking everything. I brushed those thoughts aside as I said my prayers.

****
Church was awesome; the choir was amazing and the Word was spot on! Mercy and I enjoyed ourselves in God's presence. We were so glad that our friend Chima invited us.

As we were heading out, I saw them. Our new neighbors, they were coming for the second service as we were leaving the first service. I wanted to walk by without acknowledging them, but our eyes met again.

The woman smiled and said “Good morning, Happy Sunday."

I blushed and quickly looked away; I said "Good morning ma, same to you" As I quickly walked past her.

"Tomiyin, do you know her?" Mercy asked

"Not really, that's just our new neighbor."

"Ooohhh, no wonder!"  Mercy laughed

"Stop laughing jor!" I was slightly embarrassed, as I remembered being caught the night prior.

"She kept staring at you even after you walked passed her. She definitely knows it's you! Hahaaaa… amebor (nosey) thingz" Mercy laughed harder.

I was so happy when I caught glimpse of Chima. I needed to change the subject ASAP. He thanked us for honoring his invite and took us to lunch at a Chinese restaurant after. We had lots of fun, good food and great laughs.

At last we had to say our good byes and headed home. We had to get the house ready because Mummy was returning tomorrow and also it was the beginning of another school week.

****
The school day went by so fast. I couldn't wait to get home and see all the goodies that mummy brought back for us from Abuja. Mercy and I were beyond excited, she always returned from her business trips bearing gifts.

After the driver dropped us off at home, she called Mercy to inform her that she just landed. Mercy and I started rejoicing as we prepared dinner. We made her favorite pounded yam and efo riro (Nigerian dishes).

Two hours later, she was at the door. We ran to welcome her and gladly grabbed the bags out of her driver's hands.

"Mummy! How was your trip??? We missed you!" You would have thought that we rehearsed it.

"It was good, we thank God. I missed my girls too". She gave us kisses on our cheeks.

" Mmm...something smells good in here!" She proceeded to the kitchen.

"Aww my favorite! You girls are the best! Let me quickly go take a shower and we'll have dinner together."
We talked our way through dinner. We filled her in on what she's missed for the past week and she shared her business trip gist. We laughed and laughed and laughed. Good times!

"Mummy, guess what?" I said

"Yes sweetheart"

"Our neighbors have finally moved in!" I couldn't hide my excitement.

"Here we go again!" Mercy said. She proceeded to tell mummy how I got caught spying on our neighbors.

They both laughed, I ended up joining them and we all laughed.

"It’s okay Tomiyin; we will go there and introduce ourselves to them."

Now that's what I wanted to hear!

****
Everyone was so busy during the week. Saturday finally came around. After having our normal Saturday brunch Mummy suggested that we head next door to meet the neighbors.

We all took baths, got dressed and headed over. The gateman seemed surprised when he heard us knocking on the gate. He asked who we were and said he'd be right back. He had to inform his boss. About two minutes later he was back and told us to come in.

Armed with the fruits and drinks that we brought as gifts, we walked in. When we got to the front door of the house, we pressed the doorbell. A young girl opened the door and introduced herself as Sylvia. She said that her madam (boss) would be with us shortly.

"Taiwo...Kenny, stop playing rough! Come on, let's go we have visitors." We heard her voice from upstairs.

We rose to our feet as we heard her footsteps on the staircase.

"Hello, Good afternoon!" We heard her voice before she made it to the bottom of the stairs.
Her and mummy's reaction was priceless as they both did a double take.

"Wait! Jumoke! Is that you????" Mummy asked.

"Oh my goodness!!! It is a lie!!!" The lady said.

"Susan it is me ooo...wait are you my neighbor? I can't believe this!"

They hugged one another and jumped up and down like teenagers.

"Are these your children? They're so cute!" Mummy stated                                                    

"Yes, my twins...meet Taiwo and Kenny."

"Good afternoon ma." They said in unison.

"Good afternoon my loves!" She hugged them.

"Are these your girls??? They're gorgeous."

We both greeted her.

All of a sudden mummy got quiet and looked uncomfortable. It seemed like the euphoria just disappeared. She had a confused look inked all over her face.

"Susan, what's up? Are you okay?" Mrs. Jumoke asked.

"Yeah, I am fine. Sorry just thought of something."

We stayed briefly and mummy said she had to go. She said we would come back later.
When we got home she was acting restless. Shortly after she retreated into her room and said she had to take a nap.

****
Later that evening, while we sat at the dinner table she said she had to tell us something as she fidgeted with her food.

"I really don't know how to say this. I've been thinking about it all day. Replaying this conversation in my head continually."

Mercy and I had concerned looks on our faces. She looked so troubled.
"Tomiyin, that lady that we met this afternoon..."

"Our neighbor?"  I asked

"Yes, our neighbor. Ummm, she is...she is your mother."

I dropped my spoon and jaw at once.

"What are you kidding me???" I couldn't believe my ears.

"I am serious dear." She looked at me intently

I just sat frozen in time; I didn't know whether to laugh or cry; to be sad or happy. I looked at Mercy for comfort; she looked more confused than I did.

****
The next day, Mummy decided to go meet with her one on one and inform her of the news.

That one hour that she spent in her house felt like eternity.

When she came back, I searched her face for an answer. I didn't get one.
She sat me down.

"Tomiyin, I've informed her. She was very shocked at first, but she is very happy now."

I nodded as I hung on to every word.

"She actually went to the village three weeks ago to look for you but nobody had an answer. She has been trying to connect with you for years but big mummy didn't think it was a good idea, she told her to move on with her life. She didn't think that her husband would accept you and she didn't want you to be hurt all over again. She was not informed when big mummy passed away. She only found out when she returned to Nigeria and went to the village to look for you."

I sat speechless; was this a dream?

Was this really happening? Was this the connection that I felt the other day? Is this the reason why I was so excited? I didn’t get it! It did not make sense!

I had to pinch myself to come back to reality.

****
A few minutes later, there was a knock at the door.

It was her. It was my mother.

Before I could think twice, I ran into her arms. She embraced me and we both cries tears of joy. It was a beautiful reunion. Every feeling of hurt, neglect and disappointment ceased at that moment. I fell in love with her instantly.

We spent the rest of the night together, catching up on the past sixteen years. It was like I've always known her. I looked into her eyes and I saw myself. We looked just alike; I didn’t notice it before now.

I later went on to meet her husband and my half siblings.

The next few months were awesome. I finally had my own family. I finally had answers. The void in my heart was now filled. I reflected on all the events that led to this moment and I marveled at God.

Indeed God makes all things beautiful in its time! My God is more than enough for me to praise!!!


You're blessed!


- Bunmi



Wait before you go:




1. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, life won't make any sense, it will be cold and empty. You deserve more! Take a few minutes and click on the 'Come to Jesus' tab at the top of the page and be saved!


2. Please leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!



3. You can subscribe to this blog and receive email updates once a new post is published by entering your email address in the 'Follow by email' section located on the right of this post.


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6. Like my page on facebook: Bunmi Adebiyi


7. Follow me on Instagram: destinationdestiny_mlmt

Friday, August 26, 2016

Oluwatomiyin X

Hello everyone!

Thanks for stopping by! 

Yes I know, this has been a long short story but we're almost at the finish line. The next installment will be the last.

So enjoy!!!

***


Lagos was different.
Lagos was noisy.
Lagos was crowded.
Lagos was all about the hustle and bustle.

It was a far cry from what I was used to. It took a while to adjust but I eventually got the hang of it.

We stayed with Mercy's mom's friend, we called her aunty C. She was a widow and mother of four children (two boys and two girls). They lived in a two bedroom flat. To say that the living conditions were a bit uncomfortable was an understatement. Aunty C and Mercy’s mom slept in one room, and all the children slept in the other.

Mercy's mom promised us that we wouldn't stay for long; so we managed. The money that we came with seemed to be disappearing at record speed. Mercy’s mom had to help out with purchasing food and the bills in the house.

Mercy's mom went out from sun up to sun down looking for employment. She'd come home frustrated. Her degrees and qualifications were practically useless. Everyone and their mother were looking for work.

By the time we clocked six months at Aunty C's house, we knew our time was up. Things became very tense and tough in the house. Mercy's mom had no choice but to take a sale's position at a local boutique.

With the little money that we had left, we were able to get a self-contain (studio apartment), it wasn't too great but it was a place to lay our heads. We couldn't afford to go back to school just yet. Luckily one of our neighbors just graduated from the university and offered to give us free tutorials. His name was Kenny Williams.

Mr. K as we fondly called him was very nice. He ensured that we were up bright and early to attend his tutorials, he taught us all subjects. He was very thorough and patient; he didn’t stop until we understood everything. He encouraged us daily; he didn't want us to feel bad because we couldn't afford to go to school.

He also was a born again Christian. Prior to meeting him, I never heard the term 'born again' before. After our tutorials, he'd teach us about God. We used to attend church in Warri; Mercy's parents were Catholics. But what he taught us about God was different, it was intriguing.

I learned that God loved me and that he gave us the best gift in the person of Jesus Christ. He told us that Jesus died, so that we could be saved from sin and its consequences (sickness, poverty and death).

One day, he asked if he wanted to give our lives to Jesus. We both shouted "Yes!" in unison. After repeating a few words after him, it felt like a large weight was lifted off my shoulders. I felt alive and free!

Thereafter, he asked if we wanted to be filled with the Holy Spirit. We replied in the affirmative. He laid his hands on our foreheads one after another. Mercy was first; she suddenly fell to the ground and started to speak in tongues. It was magical. I was next, as he laid his hand on my forehead, I felt warmth all over my body. I also felt an unexplainable joy from deep within, I began to laugh uncontrollably and spoke in tongues interchangeably.

It was an experience that I can never forget. I now had a second birthday; that I celebrate every year May 24! We were so excited we couldn't wait to tell Mercy's mom what took place. She came home exhausted and didn't seem too interested. So we let her be.

But I couldn't contain my excitement; I wanted the world to know! I told some of our friends in the neighborhood. Soon enough they were knocking on Mr. K's door so that they could have the same experience. He encouraged Mercy and I to teach and repeat what we saw him do. So there we were, getting people saved and filled with the Holy Spirit throughout our neighborhood. It was exhilarating!

We tried to get Mercy's mom on board but she still didn't seem interested. She told us it was youthful shenanigans. Soon enough things started to get better for our family. Mr. K taught us how to study the Word and pray. We began to release our faith for things to get better.

One day, Mercy's mom came home brimming from ear to ear. We knew that something was up, she usually came home dejected.

"My loves, you wouldn't believe what happened today!"

"What happened mommy? Gist us!" Mercy replied.

"I got a new job!!!" She shouted at the top of her lungs.

We all started rejoicing, it was a beautiful sight.
"How? Where?" I asked.

"Well a man came into the boutique today; he wanted to purchase a gift for his wife."

"Okay, tell me more" Mercy was impatient.

"Well we got talking, he asked me if I was educated and I told him about all my qualifications. He was shocked and said that I was just what his company was looking for. He told me to resume work tomorrow!!!"

The shouts of joy continued.

Mercy and I were ecstatic; we prayed that she'd get a new job. Indeed our God answers prayers!

Mercy’s mom went from being a sale’s person at a boutique to being a bank executive in a manner of hours.

***

In no time, we were back in school and things were going great for us.
Mercy's mom blossomed at work; she was given a company car. And we eventually moved into a four bedroom duplex (two story house) in Lekki. It was bittersweet having to say goodbye to our neighbors who had become like family to us. It was even harder having to say goodbye to Mr. K, he had become a father figure to us. The things he taught us changed us forever.

I loved our new home. It was spacious and beautiful! It was my safe haven, my lighthouse, I loved coming home. I had so many experiences with God there. It was so easy to pray and study the Word as I sat on the balcony and enjoy the natural breeze.

The only thing that I missed was having neighbors. It was kind of lonely because our neighborhood was fairly new. However a new house was being built next door. I looked out of my window daily to monitor the progress that the construction workers made. While wondering who would live there and become our next door neighbor.


To be continued....


You're blessed!


- Bunmi



Wait before you go:




1. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, life won't make any sense, it will be cold and empty. You deserve more! Take a few minutes and click on the 'Come to Jesus' tab at the top of the page and be saved!


2. Please leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!



3. You can subscribe to this blog and receive email updates once a new post is published by entering your email address in the 'Follow by email' section located on the right of this post.


4. You can share this post or previous posts by clicking on the respective social media icon on the right.


5. Follow me on twitter @BunmiAdebiyi_


6. Like my page on facebook: Bunmi Adebiyi


7. Follow me on Instagram: destinationdestiny_mlmt

Thursday, August 18, 2016

Oluwatomiyin IX

Hello everyone!!!

I want to apologize if it seems like this short story has been dragging. My apologies, I have been super busy in the last few weeks/months. But I promise to get back into the swing of things soon enough. 

For now, enjoy the next installment of "Oluwatomiyin"

****


Shortly after giving birth to Mercy, her parents began trying to conceive again. Each attempt was unsuccessful. After a number of miscarriages and accompanying health conditions, they decided to close that chapter and be content with the one child that God gave them.

However, Mr. Timothy's (Mercy's dad) family was not having that. They accused Mercy's mom of being a witch. They said that she used her womb to do witchcraft and trap her husband. Through it all, Mr. Timothy was supportive and protective of his wife. He loved and cherished her eternally.

Well three years ago, everything changed in a matter of months. Mr. Timothy's family had convinced him to secretly marry a second wife. He came from a royal family and he needed a male child to be his heir. In no time, he found himself dancing to his family's tunes. Soon after their wedding, his second wife gave birth to a baby boy.

All this occurred under Mercy's mom's noise. She had absolutely no idea. In her mind, her husband was the best husband in the universe. She vowed to commit her entire life to him and their little family. She was the epitome of a great wife and mother. I learned so much by observing her.

However, on November 8, 2013, I saw a different side of her. Mr. Timothy returned from work with a not so pleasant surprise. As Mercy's mum, headed towards the door to welcome her husband and exchange a kiss as they normally did; she paused as she saw her husband's demeanor.

"Sweetheart, what's wrong?" She knew that something was off.

"Dorothy, I...I...I'm sorry, I didn't mean for it to happen like this."

"Shut up! Aren't you a man? Why are you sorry? For what?" Mr. Timothy's mother shouted from behind him.

With confusion etched all over her face, Mercy's mom said "Good evening mama, I didn't know you were coming today. You're welcome ma." She opened the door wider.

"Save your greetings you witch!" Mercy's grandma retorted as she entered with her new grandson in her arms. Her new daughter in law followed behind her smiling like she just won the lotto.

"Mercy and Oluwatomiyin, please excuse us."

We hurriedly made our exit and headed to our room. We pinned our ears to the door as the rest of the drama unfolded.

Mercy's mom was introduced to her husband's second wife and son. She was told that they were moving in that same night so that we could all live as one big family. If she didn't like it, she was told to pack her belongings and leave.

Mercy's mom began to wail and shout.
"Timothy, Timothy... What did I ever do to deserve this???"

Needless to say, no one had dinner that night. Mercy and I were too afraid to leave our room. We prayed that it was all a terrible nightmare and hoped that it would all disappear when we woke up the next morning.

Well it didn't disappear, it became our reality. The once cozy and loving atmosphere within the house became tense and uncomfortable. Mercy's mom turned into a zombie. She barely spoke or smiled. She took care of her responsibilities; she cooked, cleaned and ensured that we were okay. Afterwards she locked herself in her room, becoming a prisoner in her own home.

The other lady tried to be close to us but we never gave her the time of day. I felt a bit sorry for her; she was so young and beautiful. She seemed to be educated and had the potential to be someone great. She also seemed lost, for some reason, I feel like she was coax into all of this.

I overheard her speaking with someone on the phone one day.

"Chioma, I didn't bargain for all this o.
 I was just minding my business jeje and this ppl came and highjacked me. I am now doing second wife." She attempted to whisper.

"But I was promised my own house! This is ridiculous. The guy doesn't even send me...he hasn't touched me since."

When she noticed that I was around she smiled and changed the subject.
Something wasn't right.

***
Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months. Nothing changed, everyone was in their own world. I hated going home, I always found an excuse to get home late.

I guess I wasn't the only one that hated being in that house.

One night Mercy's mom, tiptoed into our room. She woke us up and gave us our shoes. She put her hands over her lips and told us not to say a word. Before we knew it, we were in a car that was waiting for us outside the house. The car was filled with some bags. We were told to get some rest and not to worry.

We were on our way to Lagos.


You're blessed!


- Bunmi



Wait before you go:




1. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, life won't make any sense, it will be cold and empty. You deserve more! Take a few minutes and click on the 'Come to Jesus' tab at the top of the page and be saved!


2. Please leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!



3. You can subscribe to this blog and receive email updates once a new post is published by entering your email address in the 'Follow by email' section located on the right of this post.


4. You can share this post or previous posts by clicking on the respective social media icon on the right.


5. Follow me on twitter @BunmiAdebiyi_


6. Like my page on facebook: Bunmi Adebiyi



7. Follow me on Instagram: destinationdestiny_mlmt

Thursday, August 11, 2016

Oluwatomiyin VIII

Hello! Thanks for stopping by today!

The story of Oluwatomiyin continues...I hope that you've enjoyed it thus far?

Read, Comment, Share & be Blessed!!!

***

The day finally came to an end. I couldn't wait to crash; I was exhausted physically and emotionally. I wanted to be alone and away from all the noise.
I said my thank you(s) and goodbyes to the few guests that lingered around.
I couldn't wait to get home, I was exhausted. I just wanted to crash.

I had been staying with my friend Sharon and her family since big mummy left the scene. As I was about to get into the car and drive home with them, Mercy's mom called my name.

I turned to face her.

"Please come, I want to speak with you."

She then motioned for Sharon's family to be on their way.

I reluctantly dragged my feet and headed in her direction.
As I thought to myself "Couldn't this wait? This has already been an emotional/stressful day."

She reached out for me and gave me a big hug. I found solace in her arms for a few minutes, it felt heavenly. She then pulled back from me gently and looked into my eyes.

“I just finished speaking with your grandmother; she want you to stay with us. I promise that you’ll be well taken care of. “

I just stared back at her in unbelief as my jaw dropped. I was speechless as she held my hand and walked me towards the car where Mercy and her dad were waiting for us.

Mercy tried to cheer me up but it failed. The car ride was only fifteen minutes long but it felt like fifteen hours.

I had enough for the day; as soon as we got home I headed straight for Mercy's room and crashed on her bed with my clothes and shoes still on. I slept like a baby.
I didn't want to wake up the next morning; I laid in bed and tried to extend my sleep for as long as possible.

My dreams were far better than reality. At least I got to see big mummy in my dreams. The memories that we shared often replayed in those dreams. I took it as a sign that she was fine and wanted me to be at peace.
I decided to finally drag myself out of bed after tossing side to side for about twenty minutes. I wanted to head over to the house and get a few things. I informed Mercy's mom that I'd be back soon, but her reply stopped me dead in my tracks.

"The house has been locked permanently. Your grandmother sent someone over early this morning to bring your belongings."

I broke into a rage and started shouting at the top of my lungs.

"Who does she think she is? She can't control my life! I hate her! I hate her!!!”

I dropped to the floor wept uncontrollably. Mercy's mom placed her hand on my shoulder.

And she whispered, "Its okay dear, you don't need to cry. We are here for you."

For the next week, I barely ate nor spoke. I was out of it. Mercy and her family did all they could to get me out of my funk but I didn't budge. Life had dealt me some serious punches and I wasn't sure if I could take anymore.

***

One morning, I woke up with a new attitude; it was like magic, I decided to see everything in a new light. At least I had a family that loved and cared for me. Mercy was the sister I never had and this was the family structure that I never had. Mercy's parents treated me like their own child.

Deep down within me, I felt that somehow things would get better. My goal was to keep that hope alive.

One day Mercy's mom called me into her room.

"Yes ma, I'm coming."

"How are you dear?" She inquired.

"I am fine ma."

"I'm glad to hear that."

"I hope they you're comfortable here?"

"Yes I am, thank you ma."

"I know your mom, her and I were very close when she was pregnant with you."

I was all ears.

"She really loved you; she wanted to be there for you. She always wanted to come back for you but her parents didn't allow her."

"We kept in touch after she left. She'd always ask about you and beg me to send her pictures of you."

"She called me when she was about to get married. She was devastated because her parents made her swear to never mention you to her husband or even think of seeing you again."

I became visibly livid.

"She wanted to run away and call off the wedding but she couldn't muster the courage to. She felt like no man would ever want to marry her after they found out that she had a baby out of wedlock."

I sighed.

"So she accepted her fate and went ahead with the wedding."

Tears began to drip down my face.

"I didn't hear from her for a few months. She then called me and told me that she was relocating to America with her husband. And she made me promise to watch after you."

"So she actually cared?" I asked rhetorically.

"Yes she did. And I am glad that I'm actually in the position to fulfill my promise to her."

She stood up, smiled and held out her arms to me. We exchanged a hug.

I felt like I was in good hands.
"Your grandmother has promised to send 50,000 naira every month for your upkeep but my husband and I have decided to save that money instead. We will keep it for you until you're ready to go to university. "

"Wow! Thank you so much ma. I really appreciate it! God bless you."

The next three years were heaven on earth in the Onyema household until all hell broke loose.

You're blessed!


- Bunmi



Wait before you go:




1. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, life won't make any sense, it will be cold and empty. You deserve more! Take a few minutes and click on the 'Come to Jesus' tab at the top of the page and be saved!


2. Please leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!



3. You can subscribe to this blog and receive email updates once a new post is published by entering your email address in the 'Follow by email' section located on the right of this post.


4. You can share this post or previous posts by clicking on the respective social media icon on the right.


5. Follow me on twitter @BunmiAdebiyi_


6. Like my page on facebook: Bunmi Adebiyi



7. Follow me on Instagram: destinationdestiny_mlmt

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Oluwatomiyin VII

Good day everyone, I apologize for stopping this short story suddenly. The past few weeks have been extremely busy. 

The story continues...enjoy the newest installment:

***

So the funeral happened. It was the saddest day of my life till date. I cried uncontrollably that day and on many days thereafter. The tears have diminished but they're yet to seize completely.

On the day of the funeral, multitudes of people came to say their final farewell. Big mummy was indeed loved. Everyone had great things to say about her. Her best friend mummy Posi, summarized her life with these words: 

"My darling sister and friend was a woman worthy of emulation. She had the biggest heart, she lived for others, she loved everyone and she served the Lord with all her life, heart and strength. She was and still is an inspiration, a woman defined by grace, excellence, class and glory. Even though she has transitioned unto eternity; her legacy lives on through all the lives she has touch... that's you and me."

My heart sank to the bottom of my chest as she ended her speech. It finally hit me, she was really gone. I wailed as the thought of being motherless hit me. I had no one else. Some people try to console me but they failed. I tried but I couldn't stop the tears and the pain that I felt in my heart at this great loss.

As we laid her to rest, I secretly wished that I could jump into the grave and go with big mummy. I was afraid of being alone. What was there to live for now? It wasn't time for her to leave the scene yet. I had plans, big plans which included her with me for a very long time. There was so many things that I wish I said, so many things that I wished I did.

****

Oh yeah, my "grandparents" were there. They paid for the very elaborate funeral. I didn't bother to acknowledge them, they didn't deserve it. They've pretended like I didn't exist for years so I returned the favor.

However my birth mother wasn't there surprisingly. I didn't know what she looked like but I had an idea. As I scanned the crowd over and over again, I didn't see anyone who matched the image in my mind. I wasn't bothered, ` all I wanted was for this to be a terrible nightmare that I'd wake up from.

While everyone was eating and rejoicing, celebrating the life of big mummy I was in a daze. I really didn't see any reason to rejoice. Of all people, she didn't deserve to die. She didn't deserve to leave before enjoying the fruits of her labor. She didn't deserve to be sick. She didn't deserve to be neglected by her only child, only for her to show up at the funeral and expect her money to cover it all.

With those thoughts running through my mind, I ran into the restroom. I suddenly felt my body brush against someone else's. As I apologized, I looked up to discover that it was her, Mrs. missing-in-action... my so called grandmother. I wished that I hadn't bothered to apologize, she didn't deserve it.

"It is okay darling, are you alright?" She asked eloquently.

I wanted to give her a piece of my mind but I remembered that big mummy taught me manners.

"I am, thank you ma."

"Very well, You've grown up to be a very beautiful young woman you know."

I hissed under my breath and stylishly rolled my eyes.

"Thank you ma."

"You're welcome dear!" She had a huge smile on her face.

"I know that you'll miss mummy. But not to worry, I've made plans for you to be well taken cared of in her absence."

Before I could utter another word, she stuck her head up, pulled her shoulders back and glued a smile on her face as she walked away to meet and greet guests.

I stood there astonished as she put on a really good show. She greeted everyone and thanked them from coming. You'd think that she was the nicest woman in the world. The only good thing that came out of my encounter with her was that I stopped crying for that period of time.

She made plans for me? Really? Plans without consulting me? Who was she to make plans for me? Where has she been all this time? Why did she bother? Did she even care?


To be continued...


You're blessed!


- Bunmi



Wait before you go:




1. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, life won't make any sense, it will be cold and empty. You deserve more! Take a few minutes and click on the 'Come to Jesus' tab at the top of the page and be saved!


2. Please leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!



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Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Destiny Testimonies: Faith for Fertility

Source: Google


"In a survey of married women, the CDC found that 1.5 million women in the US (6%) are infertile (Source: National Survey of Family Growth, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] 2006-2010). Twenty-five percent of infertile couples have more than one factor that contributes to their infertility (Source: American Society for Reproductive Medicine [ASRM] 1996-2016)."
But here's the good news! The truth and nothing but the truth!


No one shall suffer miscarriage or be barren in your land; I will fulfill the number of your days (Exodus 23:26 AMP)

He honors the childless wife in her home; he makes her happy by giving her children. Praise the Lord! (Psalm 113:9 GNT)

You shall be blessed above all peoples; there will be no male or female barren (childless, infertile) among you or among your cattle. (Deuteronomy 7:14 AMP)

As a member of the body of Christ this is your reality. Regardless of what the doctor's report says, the bible (which is the truth) says NONE SHALL BE BARREN!

Today I bring you an amazing testimony by Mrs. Ijeoma Lasebikan. I met her a few years ago when I lived in Maryland; we attended the same church. I initially met her husband when we were both serving in the children's ministry. I went on to meet her when we were chosen along with a few other people to work on a church project.

She was always energetic, bubbly, and  full of life. Her husband was Mr. Cool, Calm, and Collected. They were both dedicated and passionate about serving in the house of the Lord. From my perspective, they were the perfect match and I admired their union.

I had no idea what they were facing behind closed doors. There wasn't the slightest hint of their struggles on the outside. This testimony reveals that faith indeed works! And that God's Word is true!
It is short and straight to the point but POWERFUL...enjoy!

This time last week I was preparing to return home from the hospital from having my first child. After 8 years of marriage, 7 miscarriages and countless procedures heaven answered all the prayers that had gone up on behalf of my husband Lakunle Lash and I. I'm so full of joy and in awe and thanks to God. And also thankful to everyone who prayed for us, prayed with us, encouraged us, and spoke into our lives. I'm thankful to God for these 2 testimonies, first my son and second through it all like the song by Tremaine Hawkins we never lost our hope, we never lost our faith, we never lost our joy but most of all we never lost our praise! Never lose your praise regardless of what's happening around you continue to give your all to God, because He will do what he said He'll do!   #faithforfertility!!!!!!  - Ijeoma Lasebikan

Source: Google

Faith works...God answers prayers... Never loose your joy...keep praising...the is victory in the storm!

For all those that may be reading this and are going through the same thing, I pray that this encourages you. And I pray that God will surprise you with your own bundle (s) of joy before this year is over.

A special thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Lasebikan for giving me the opportunity to share their testimony.
If you have a testimony that you'd like to share please send me an email: destinationdestiny7@gmail.com.


You're blessed!


- Bunmi



Wait before you go:




1. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, life won't make any sense, it will be cold and empty. You deserve more! Take a few minutes and click on the 'Come to Jesus' tab at the top of the page and be saved!


2. Please leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!



3. You can subscribe to this blog and receive email updates once a new post is published by entering your email address in the 'Follow by email' section located on the right of this post.


4. You can share this post or previous posts by clicking on the respective social media icon on the right.


5. Follow me on twitter @BunmiAdebiyi_


6. Like my page on facebook: Bunmi Adebiyi



7. Follow me on Instagram: destinationdestiny_mlmt