I pushed up my nose in scornful resentment as Papa was handed a microphone in church to bless the offering. James, my eight years old brother hissed as well, and it was loud enough to welcome some gazes. Some of the old women sitting beside us stared at us, in a way that told us…

Leave me alone, leave me alone… “What is it ehn”? “I have my own life to live”. Ada wrestles her way past the wooden chair placed on her path. “If only I caught you”, “I will beat hell out of you”. Breathing heavily…. If you know your name is Ada just wait for me. You…

Although many teens can’t seem to stop talking to their friends, they often don’t want to talk to their parents. A lack of conversation leaves many parents feeling shut out from their teen’s world. There are some strategies you can use to encourage your teen to talk to you. 1. Reflect What You Hear When your…

In school we were taught that economics is the study of how goods and services are produced, sold and bought. I dare say there is an economics of how love is generated, even sold and bought! An understanding of this economics is vital to achieving success in love even as an understanding of world economic…

This piece is the first in a series of writings titled “Lessons from within”. They are a collection of vital lessons I learnt from my parents, friends and associates. I will share them bi-weekly  on this portal.  You don’t want to miss any of the writings; use the subscription form on this page to subscribe…

Our wedding was on October 14, 1966. But our marriage began three weeks later. We were dressed up and on our way to the swankiest restaurant in town. We had saved all week for the big splurge. One problem–my bride was wearing the most horrible perfume ever manufactured. Smelled like a mixture of mustard gas,…

A family of 5 in Ibadan, Nigeria received a heart rending news when a blood test revealed all 3 children were HIV positive.  Their parent tested negative to the virus. Who, how, where, when…………… were the thoughts on their minds, lips. There was only one person to suspect – the nanny. She was made to…

I watched a programme on the television recently. It was called ‘50 ways to kill your mother’ and it made quite interesting viewing. A son took his elderly mother on adventures of a lifetime in order that she might experience some real thrills in life and not just sitting in the house waiting for death….

Our oldest turned 14, had been asking for a mobile phone, and following a fair amount of discussion and postponing the inevitable, we graciously relented. Here is the contract we asked him to sign upon relenting. Slightly revised to remove the personal bits. Dear Son, Happy birthday buddy! You’re now the proud owner of your first…

Shortly after my daughter Juli-Ann was born, I started a loving tradition that I know others (with whom I have subsequently shared this special plan) have also started. I tell you the idea here both to open your heart with the warmth of my story and also to encourage you to start this tradition within…