My dearest Joy,
We met approximately 36 years ago when we were both living on the grounds of the Methodist Girls High School (MGHS); me a boarder and you living with your mom who was one of our boarding mistresses and a teacher at the high school. We gravitated towards each other from the very beginning but our friendship blossomed when we met again at the Saint Edwards Secondary School; it was then that I began to experience the person that you really are. Even though my parents were extremely strict I recall finding time and making up stories to hang with you. I cherished most of the outings, pranks, stories, laughter and even occasional challenges during those times. I’ll never forget that little body contouring black dress with frills at the hip area that we bought so we could have the exact same look. We shared clothes, shoes (even though you had smaller feet) and just had this fun and care free attitude towards life. We had a wonderful and fun time but suddenly it all changed; life happened and we had to grow up.
I felt empty and heart broken when you left for the UK but you promised to communicate as soon as you settled. True to your character, you wrote me letters. You described the joys and challenges of living in England and you kept me updated about life in the hostel while you were in nursing school. We continued exchanging letters until I left for the US in late 1991 – then our communication escalated. We were now able to communicate frequently via telephone so we kept each other updated about all the happenings in our lives. I even recall visiting Money Gram in the US for the very first time to collect some money you sent me. A little later Akeem came along and you decided to make your first visit to the US. I was excited to pick you up at the airport with Akeem in a “basket;” and oh what fun we had.
I recall visiting you in London several times and one of them was when you were residing at Lupin Point and you threw me this mega party; that party was a blast! Not too long after Mr. Vidal strutted along and I was privileged to serve as your Maid of Honor; we had tremendous fun at your wedding. I recall the excitement and celebrations around Vanessa’s pregnancy and birth – God bless her! I also recall some very difficult and painful moments we’ve shared; I’d be remiss if I fail to mention the passing of your dear brother and my dearest buddy, John (Chuku) Marah– may his soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
Even though I couldn’t be present for every single event, you kept me involved in your own way. We’ve been supporting each other for a very long time and our families are intertwined because of a flame we ignited. I’m so very proud of the woman you’ve become and while I’m not surprised, I’m in awe of your leadership role in your community. You’re definitely the community “doctor” and “counselor” by default. This is a true testament to the person you are. You are a caregiver who will go to the ends of the earth to make others around you feel comfortable. You are honorable and will do whatever it takes to protect the integrity and humanity of another human being. You’re one of the most empathetic people I’ve ever met and your loyalty knows no bounds. Best of all you’re absolute fun to be with; you have a sense of humor like no other.
I recall being with you at a wedding in upstate New York several years ago only to tell you that a particular lady was quite rude to me. Before Vidal or I could stop you, you jumped up and walked directly to the lady in question. I’m not sure what you said to her but the lady walked over to me and apologized and the three of us were glued together for the rest of the evening. A few months later I received a call from the lady and the first thing she said was “how’s your crazy twin sister doing?” How funny – but that’s you!
I Would like to thank you for being a trusted friend and sister over the years and for all the love and support you’ve extended to me and my family. I value the privilege of walking beside you during this journey. I admire your constant positivity and what you represent for most people. Most of all I would like to commend you for simply being you – Joy. I pray that the good lord bless you and your entire family and I pray for God’s grace in your life always. I pray for God to align your wishes with God’s will and to grant your wishes. Once again thank you from the depths of my heart for being a true friend and sister.
I love you!!
Lovingly,
FA (mammy!!)