Happy Birthday Blog Visitor Chinelo Linda OKAFOR

On this day, exactly 5 years ago, we spoke for the first time over the phone. For some reason, God must have dipped his hands in honey and placed it on my tongue because as I sang the “happy birthday” song for you, you made it feel like the host of seraphim was singing. In fact, if chocolate was a sound, it must have been one of Jacques Torres chocolates. (My baby loves her chocolates).

I couldn’t see your face, but from the expression on your voice, I could tell that you were lit, and though my heart was covered by pounds of flesh and rib cages, I could tell it has been given to another. Though we didn’t date until two years later, that day, I could tell that a friendship that would last forever, began.

This same day, last year, with hope in my heart and no clue of what the future may hold for me, I flew from Lagos to Uyo, and in the presence of friends and colleagues, at First Bank, I went down on one knee, deciding that I don’t care what my future might hold if you are not going to be part of it. With my heart beating like a race horse or the Congo drums of war, and beautiful tears flowing from your eyes, I asked you to be my wife. (She said yes).

Baby! Though I celebrate you, there are many reasons why I consider myself the luckiest man today. But I will mention only three.

1. A few weeks ago, I was admitted to the hospital and was administered a very strong anti-biotics by the nurse. Unknown to me, I was allergic to it and immediately, I started coughing and choking, I couldn’t breathe. As the nurses rushed to bring the oxygen supply system, you laid on my chest in a total surrender, praying. Though all I heard was crying, I could hear the faint wishes of the heart saying, “God, if you are going to take him, you can as well take me too”. At that moment, I knew for sure that you are the most important thing in my life.

2. Some years back, just as you starting working at the bank, I was still a struggling entrepreneur. One of the big oil giants invited you for the second phase of interviews. I remember you saying, “I wish I could transfer this opportunity to you. I already have a job and I feel you need it the most”. My People! This is a girl that has been dreaming for an opportunity like this even before she met me. That day, I knew that there was an exchange of dreams. She wanted something more. My success.

3. She is my Biggy Belle. Lol. I can’t think of anyone better to be the mother of my future kids. When she says, “I want them to have your smile, lips, your fingers, and most of all, your heart”. Words can’t explain what my heart feels.

Nwa, odim na obi, ugo m, obi uto m, anya anwu ututu m, ola edo m, egwu eji, asa mpete; Happy birthday my darling. May God give us 70 more beautiful birthdays together. I love you mama!

From your darling hubby.

Happy Birthday Nelo bae....How is Married life treating?...We love you both!