VALENTINES CONFESSIONS: INSTAGRAM LOVE AFFAIR!

Dear MW,

“I have a relationship…………”

It is a strong one. Like an addiction, and it’s a bad one. Really bad, it’s one that has made me love more. So, I feel you need to know. That’s why I can share this with you. Because it’s because of the love that I can share with you. It has allowed me to be myself. I know this right now might come as a shock. But I just wanted to let you know that…….

 “I AM IN LOVE WITH INSTAGRAM aka ‘Insta’.”

 It became an addiction, sometimes too bad and very destructive. I could NOT do much because of Instagram. Then I started to ignore it. But it would be calling all the time. So, I decided to cheat on it with my mistresses Facebook aka ‘FB’ and Twitter aka ‘tweeter’. because I’m the one who linked them up.

So, to hide my shame for being caught I decided to break up with Instagram. I’d do it from time to time. But in the beginning, I must admit it was hard. I really would miss Insta and we would get back together. It became an on and off kinda relationship. It was not easy but after a while, we decided to be friends. So, I’d see Insta on and off but still not feel bad about it.

Then it happens that through my friendship with Insta, I met a lovely awesome lady. How it happened I am in awe. I feel like I’m gonna wake up one day and find it’s a nightmare. I am afraid that I’d be disappointed as I like this beautiful lady so much. She’s like an angel sent by God to me; very motivating, caring and one funny character who keeps laughing at my stupid jokes. For instance, I shared a picture of a rhino and it’s made her crack up since then. She even made me write a poem using this Rhino. Something I’ve never done before. We nicknamed him Mr Prince Rhino.

With our conversations every day, I have found myself again. I’m always thinking about her and even look forward to seeing her already, God willing. Because she lives thousands of miles away. Fortunately, there’s a trip coming up soon which I was invited to just the next day after I met her. I’m in awe of God’s doing. I know that she’s reading this as I write wondering WTF is this dude talking about. Today, I woke up at dawn to find Insta looking at me. She said I have several of her messages that I was supposed to read because, apparently, she could not sleep as she’d fallen in love with my blog. Alas. Kumbe she went behind the scene and was investigating my background. I had forgotten about this blog until she mentioned it. Aki! this should have been a warning. She’s really good at investigations; I bet better than CSI and FBI combined (you can take this to the bank).

So apparently, her messages are all full of encouragements for me to go back to writing

Works by directionman( Instagram)

again. She said things that felt like flattering. I can remember her using words like “your writing is very inspiring”, “you are very creative”, “you are very blessed”-just to mention a few. I couldn’t reply because Satan is Evil. A prolific liar. I fell asleep, couldn’t keep my eyes open. But I remember being filled with profound jealous. Not sure if it was because of this picture she sent me captioned “Mood” that was taken wearing a pj and cuddling this big, white, fierce-faced, manly bear on her side. I cannot imagine that I didn’t spot the small, bearish, fluffy, brown bear just next to her face, whom I later learnt was named ‘’Bobby” aka our kafirst born. Waah.

I really wanted to trade places with the big bear known as “Robby”. I swear I did dream of several ways to stage a murder that will make sure that Robby disappeared completely. But apparently my brain seems to be acting up and I can’t remember if there was anyone of my ideas that could succeed in eliminating Robby. How now? Waaat! How did I mention this? Damn. She’s a great investor and has a big brother who is a legal advocate of the high court. I better start praying for my @** and write a will asap. I hope if I survived this small investment, a total of eight reserved comments, strong Goodwill accumulated over the past few days, and many treasured moments shared together will get me by. Anyway, sorry for the diversion. Back to the picture.

Works by directionman( Instagram)

I have never ever in my life seen such a beautiful face in a pj. On second thought, she did downplay her beauty and innocence when I brought it up later. But as for me I am convinced beyond reasonable doubt that she’s the most beautiful diamond in the middle of the Sahara Desert, to the moon and back. Nothing compares to her beauty. Not even the beautiful princess in the “beauty and the beast” story. She’s also got brains, man. Did I mention she’s the baddest upcoming agronomist in town? Yes, baby, she’s finalizing her public head damage in agronomy. Never lied in my life for someone but I will lie for this beauty with brains, queen of the Sahara, conqueror of my temple (heart). This is a story for another day.

But now that it’s out immah pray to Papa about it. She’s one of those angels who love and cherish “Papa God”. Ooooh my, she ticks so many boxes. Yaani, carton, wooden, plastic, clay, all the…boxes. She’s charming and delicious at the same time. I have no idea what she’s thinking after reading this. But one thing I’m sure is that she wasn’t expecting that she’ll be reading such a long confession. I told her not to get me started with this. But nah she wouldn’t listen. She just had to invoke this “nikka’s” creative juice. I bet she couldn’t wait to taste some since she started smelling the beautiful aroma that came from reading some of my articles. Eeeh…

SCENARIO 1: She might have taken me seriously when I mentioned I’d given up on a relationship and decided not to talk to me no more. Damn… did I mess it up already, just when it was getting better and better? Oooh Gosh, I should have heeded the warning she sent out. I knew I had not prayed about this but I was sure I wanted to tell her since if she discovered it herself, I knew she would not forgive me. It would be the end of a beautiful story. One that perhaps would never be written. Because it ended no sooner than it started.

SCENARIO 2: she gave up reading the trail of my writing. Perhaps she’s too busy with her work. Perhaps she’s a bit moody now. Perhaps she’s been called to a meeting. Perhaps she’s tired of waiting for me to finish writing up. I remember she once complained that I was writing a lot. I almost told her it’s because I’m a writer and have so much to say. Or maybe tell her that I was secretly falling for her and my fingers, heart and mind were colluding to make her head over heels for this “Nikkah” from the slopes of Mt. Kenya. But nah. Just played it coolio and finished the sentence then pressed send button. Just like our "Sexy Stacey" would do.

Sexy Stacey

Picked up the convo from where I left it. How amazing can an impromptu connection bring such beautiful moments like this? Yaani, in our chit chat, I have found myself quoting several verses from “psalms” to “songs of Solomon” to “Ecclesiastes” I’m I considered being wise among the wise like King Solomon? Some of these verses I don’t think that I’ve read them at all. Yet, I seem to be an expert second to Solomon…On matters of the heart (love). I have retraced my devotion book and become a persistent reader again. I have developed a unique theorem of understanding between relationships and financial investment, and agronomy. Not yet tested and confirmed. But is sure promising to produce a bumper harvest (or in financial terms, “high returns”).  I have gone to sleep smiling ear to ear despite the tiredness that comes through my day to day work.

 Finally, several minutes after she vanished on me…I’m still writing this article. Not able to find the perfect words or scenario to finish it. But I must cease since some work is awaiting me. In fact, at my face like “WHO DEY THINK YOU ARE”. NOW, lastly, (hopefully). . .

SCENARIO 3: After reading the first three paragraphs, she’s discovered that my much

Mr Prince Rhino

hyped ‘CONFESSION’ was just a big hoax. Damn! How could she even get to discover that it was a cover-up to woo her to read the whole article? Arrrgh. Why would she even abandon me whilst still writing for her this important article? I guess we’ll have to wait and see if she turns up to read the rest. Then see her face after reading this. I can bet you she’ll send me Mr Rhino’s picture with a caption like “Will, you are a damn fool,”-but she’ll go ahead and add those beautiful adjectives describing how blessed, creative, talented, funny and intelligent I am. Aaah. I’m being full of myself now. Maybe it’s me trying to pick up my EGO which I can attest at this moment it’s either contributed to my perishing, or to very prosperous and loving memories that shall be created ahead and last from now until the end of days. The latter is my sincere prayer to God. That since ‘we’ believe that God is the author and finisher, “Alpha and Omega’ he will reveal everything in his own time.

And with these few words, I would like to confess that I no longer love Instagram to the point of addiction or being destructive, but I have fallen in love with Instagram all over again because of the beautiful caring and inspiring lady she’s introduced me to. So, help me, God. The last couple of days have really been awesome. In this prayer, I pray that God opens our eyes and fulfils the desires of our hearts. That in his beautiful time he’ll reveal what he has in store for us. With these few words, I want to say that in case you don’t find me on Instagram or just in case Instagram is jealous because of the attention I give you when she’s just watching us, you can always reach me via her twin WhatsApp on ××××××××××××. Hoping to hear from you soon. END OF MY CONFESSION! Aka RANTING. FOR NOW. BACK TO WORK.

MW &WM

Guess what? Yeah, you might have guessed this right. My face right now is waiting for your reply after you read to the END.

Yours sincerely.

Signed by MW&WM






HAPPY VALENTINES MY LOVEY

They say the beautiful ones are not yet born, I ask how comes I have met “Maliki”

African Lady

Once upon a time, in the village of Kabaka, there was a young girl who went by the name Maliki. In all her days she was one of the most incredible and humble girl from the Kingdom of Buganda. When I met Maliki I was full of admiration and cognisant of the fact that her impeccable knowledge and articulate expression of the same defeated the ambience of an entire town hall. If you stepped in a room and found her addressing a gathering of eminent people you will never be far from the truth to believe that she was the commander in chief of the greatest air platoon, of the Delta Force.

A few minutes conversation with Maliki dealt a heavy punch to my senses as I immediately was aware of her consequential presence. She would go ahead to capture not only my imagination but also my entire nervous system. Her thoughts would arrest my muscles as I never thought of moving away from her engaging styles of conversing. Maliki appears to be the promised princess to the ruler of nations; her beauty is incomparable to none. She hails from the greatest porter, creator of all humanity.

Another of Maliki’s strength is her ability to cook.  Rumour has it that she’s the best cook in the Kingdom. Her meals seem to turn every tongue into a follower of the flavoured dishes, all teeth into soldiers in battle, every stomach to a keeper of the harvest and every person as the slave to a master’s command. Her meals are made of the best ingredients composed of love, kindness, gratefulness, humility, joy, and the wisdom of a serpent, thoughtfully crafted by one of the most intelligent brains, then cooked by one of the brightest smile, stirred by the strongest but tender hands, and stored in the spacious and well-rounded heart. Nothing comes close to eating such a meal. Kings and Princes, Presidents and Governors, Dignitaries and Diplomats, CEOs and Managers have all made dangerous and sometimes costly trips just to taste Maliki’s delicious meals prepared from her pot.

Despite all, this young lady is blessed with moves, swift like a cheetah, charming like the beautiful peacock, enticing like Delilah’s charm and entertaining like King David’s praises. She’s the queen of dance, the princess of Salsa, the floor plays to her tune, the audience to her smile. What more can I say, I have seen, continue to see and hope to experience Maliki’s impeccable leadership and positive influence across the seas, in the far continents.

As you celebrate your womanhood, my wishes are that you will continue to Maliki, the Princes of Buganda. You will continue to draw Kings and Princes, Presidents and Governors, Dignitaries and Diplomats, CEOs and Managers from all over the world to eat from your pot of wisdom, to dance to the tune of your music and to bring happiness to the souls of the people of God. Let nothing stop you, let no one tell you that you can’t, let your heart not grow fonder for your star shines brighter, your fate is imminent, and your destiny is unfolding.

They say the beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, I say that should be Maliki,

They say the beautiful once are not yet born, I ask why I have met Maliki,

They say blessed as the poor in spirit, I tell them wait until they’ve met Maliki,

They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, I tell them instead to visit Maliki,

They say the well is from an ever flowing rock, I say so is the Love from Maliki,

They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, I say wait until you give it to Maliki,

They said perhaps I was drunk from the wine at Galilee, I say because it was given by Maliki,.

They say…………………………………………………….., I say perhaps they should meet Maliki.

How else can I thank my papa, for finally allowing me to meet my Maliki. Perhaps my dreams were born, of the sleep that tormented my nights. I seek your face deep within the valleys of life. I know I’m close, closer than my steps would get to the well. One day I know, my thirst will be quenched. Nothing will deter my determined spirit, lest I abandon the mission that prevails. Enjoy your days My Maliki. 

Yours Lovingly,

(c) William Murithi

Life is Too Funny, Get Serious With Comedy: LOL

Don’t get me wrong; there is nothing bad about foolish comedy. The kind each one of us confuse for “dry comedy” or “poor sense of humor”. One thing I have realized is that life is too funny to live through it and not get a laugh out of it. Why do we not see the funny side of life whilst we are still alive? I mean today you will meet people too serious on their work that they really seem amusing. For instance, some people wake up and prepare to go to work knowing very well that their normal route always has traffic. However, as they leave their houses they expect not to find any traffic. Is this not funny, I mean, when they hit the road and find traffic do you get angry or simply laugh at your earlier thoughts?

Recently, I read a story of two mice, Scurry and Sniff and two little people, Hem and Haw. After I had soaked my eyes after reading the pages of the book in my palms, I couldn't help but wonder. Then in a flash my memory clicked, I had surely come across this story somewhere. It took me quite a while to figure out that sometime back I had watched a cartoon on this very topic, “Who Moved my Cheese?” I could not hold back as I let a big smile cover my face, laughing at the thought of how short my memory could be. If you are reading this and you still aren't smiling, then you probably have never watched nor read the book. But again, if you are reading this after watching it and you still don’t think it’s funny, you are possibly taking life too seriously.

The whole story is about change and how some of us take time before we realize that it’s too late or things have changed. However, the writer wittingly delves into the lives of mice and people to illustrate the concept of change. For a moment he made me think that mice are much cleverer than humans. Only to realize that the very intelligence we have can sometimes be our downfall.

After Haw, the better of the two little people, realized how funny it sounded as they sat waiting for their “Cheese” to be brought back. He was compelled, perhaps, by his inner voice to take action or he would finally make a fool of himself. The thought of laughing at oneself really sounds insane. Many people will probably even think you are insane or you are going down that road soon.  How many people find themselves or their life funny? Or how many can laugh at their own jokes without being seen to be weird?

Living in today’s world comes with its own challenges from working long shifts to pay bills, to writing assignments to meet deadlines, to hopping on the train to visit friends. Everything sounds like really hard work. One of the story’s lessons is to laugh at yourself, as this is the most effective way to motivate yourself to change.

As you go through your life, make fun of yourself; find things to laugh about in your life. By doing this, dancing in the rain when you know you will be soaked in water makes more sense than scurrying off to the nearest shelter when it starts to rain, while you risk breaking your limbs.

Hopefully, I have convinced you why life need not be too serious, and that once in a while you should make fun of yourself or even try out comedy. But if you can’t laugh at your jokes, attend comedy gigs and laugh as comedians make fun of you all day and night. Then take the comedy too seriously and make changes so that your life is even funnier.  (By this phrase, I mean when you go to the comedy show you will have a good laugh even if comedians make fun of you, if you can laugh at a comedian making fun of your issues (e.g. weight issues, ignorance, look, beliefs etc.) then surely you can take his/her jokes seriously and make your life funnier (means better than before), thus by Laughing at yourself it will motivate you to make changes in life, thus improve your life. 

Confessions of the Forbidden Love: The Lover that was

"Love that we cannot have is the one that Last the longest, Hurts the deepest and Feels the Strongest" Anonymous 

As I draw the curtains to a successful year that was, yet painful it has been. I can only be grateful to the bond we have shared for the last 2 years. Following my confessions in my first letter read here, I decided it’s worth writing to you (this second part) as I put my loss behind me. I will close my eyes and speak from deep my heart. First, I endeavour not to drag you along to 2015 but instead cross over without any remorse or burden. Secondly, I reckon that you will forever be still and understand that life has to move on. I will no longer cry over spilt milk but search for the calf to breed for more milk. Finally, that’s how I choose to live the next phase of my life.

Yes, I'm aware of my selfishness, it’s all about me, but the thought of you leaving is an incentive to look for someone else. So that I will share this love you have taught me, these emotions will kill me if I don't find someone soon. I cannot stand seeing you this near to departing and being helpless. For your information, before I met you I was with, Ellen, when she left I met Emery, another beautiful blonde, Emery did not last long, in a week’s time I met Emilie, though she had a slender and small stature, I loved cuddling with her. However, due to unavoidable circumstances, we had to part, ours lasted a couple of months.

The list is endless, finally, I met Erine, in one of those emotional occasions, yes, it was during a wedding.  We talked, laughed and even hugged on the first day. I offered to walk her home, unaware that she lived in another city. In one of those cities that take 6-7 hours by car. Luckily, she turned me down; she saved my long slender twigs from the torturous nature of our mother land’s roads. But what she did not know is that I fell in love with her, from the strands of my hair to the nails on my toes, held together by my heels. From that day I never found sleep, or rest or satisfaction from the best meals my mum cooked. You know she is the best cook on earth, right, after your mother of course.

Unwittingly, I say that because, neither cell nor nerve in my body resisted my relocation to Erine's city. I went there to pursue her, with all my strength, energy, few pennies and my whole mental wit. I knew it was a big risk, but I went there despite all the advice I got against such a move. I simply trusted my instincts. Summarily, after stalking her for ages and sending tonnes of flowers to her office, she gave in.  I simply single handed turned her premises to a flower shop. I later heard, that her boss was getting millions for selling and exporting flowers. Perhaps I should have opened a flower shop for her next to the office. That way I would still make sure she was surrounded by flowers every day and made money out of it. It would have been a worthy investment for us. I would get the money and she could get the serenity surrounded by the flowers sold at the shop without spending my money.  

To be honest, I lied about this when you asked me about Erine's story. I didn't want to bother you with the nitty gritty. No, in fact, I didn't want to touch base with the feelings I had for her. She was the most loving, cheerful, humorous and the queen that made me conqueror of my kingdom. I never wanted you to compete with that. That’s why I didn’t tell you anything. I am guilty of that, yes I accept but I'm guilty of many other things. For instance, I am guilty of allowing you to intrude and make me cheat on Erine, Yes, when I met you, I was with her, for your information that time she was pregnant with our first child or maybe it was twins. The flesh of my flesh, the blood of my blood, saliva of my saliva.

I'm Guilty, very guilty indeed; because I let my lust for you distort my thinking. I know I said I was single; you don’t have to feel guilty. I am the one to blame. For that very reason, I saw you and saw Erine, I don't know what happened to me. I remember when I proposed to Erine, I promised her never ever to look at another woman lustily, that she had stolen my lust and hid it in a faraway country. That my eyes were for her, only for her. That I was never to compare any woman to her. Not even attempt to match her standards to that of another woman. Erine was to be the only apple tree in my Orchard that I would eat from.

For heaven’s sake, then you appeared. I think the devil is smart or that he really was an angel sometime. You appeared to be concealed in an angelic aura. I reckon that's why you might have obscured my judgement. You made me do something that I had never done before in the years of my life. I broke my promise to Erine, which I had strongly decided to keep. What is more shocking though was the fact that you made me break a promise to myself. I hope by now you understand when I say I'm selfish, this is the very reason that I will be forever haunted as you leave now.

I remember the day I opened up to Erine. It was exactly two months after I had met you. It took me that long to gather the courage to let her know that I had broken the promise I swore with all my earthly might to keep. Since that very incident, her health deteriorated never to recover from what seemed like a nightmare. Later, she succumbed to depression, a few weeks after loosing our child. For a moment, I felt like taking the plunge and following her and our baby even to the deepest trench in hell. Whatever it would have taken for me to pay for my betrayal. Then I thought, for a while, nothing I could ever do would bring back our child and Erine to me. That's how I ended with you, maybe it was by design, maybe by default. Perhaps you were my healer or the deliverer of my punishment. 

For now I will no longer mourn, I bet you re in a better place. I will move on and cross over without any trace of remorse. I have confessed my days and I have appreciated our union, nothing meant the world than the sight of you. I pray that you forever be happy in your new resting place. Know that you will find an angel that you surely deserve. I am and will be forever grateful for your love. I can confidently say, you taught me to love.

From deep down my heart, thank you for your love.  2014 HAS BEEN GREAT BUT TRUSTING GOD 2015 WILL BE GREATER.

Special dedication to you, Good bye my lover James Blunt. 

I have written in this letter IN LOVING MEMORY of you.

R. I. P my ONE, and only, Hate iT or Conquer, you brought SENSE in my life. I will miss you.

Your loving, caring and forever grateful Lover.

Signed William Moore

(c)2015

Five Reasons Why Men Should Dress Women with Respect not Undress them as Prospects.

For the last few days I have watched in agony the unfolding of what I will call the “societal subterfuge” of the rot in our society. A few men, I repeat a few bogus me, both on the ground clothed as “foot soldiers”, (sarcastically known as touts) and on social media, masquerading as the “fashion cops”, (politely known as chauvinists) of what is the right or wrong dress code for women. As I refuse to be drawn into a miniature argumentative verbalism, I will leave that to the so called fashion watchdogs.

photo courtesy of stream.aljazeera.com

I have intentionally left my comments to this late to simply allow the dust to settle so that I can address this issue in consideration of all perspectives without hindsight. As I always say, I think before I talk, so do I think before I blog. Over the last few days, I have seen people persecuted, some literally crucified on social media for taking sides. Whether you support #MydressMychoce or #NudityisNotmyChoice, my take is your opinion is as valid as mine. However, as human beings with common sense (though I know it’s not common to everyone) we should all first uphold RESPECT for women, before condemning their choice of dressing. It is a situation of putting the cart before the donkey, not the other way round.

Now, I simply think both sides have lost the fight and miserably failed to address the main issues, rather they have undressed their Nincompoop-mediocre reasoning whether of chauvinists, feminists, sexists, atheist or men of the cloth. Literally they have publicly slept and dinned with the devil himself without their knowledge by merely pursuing short-lived pleasurable innuendos as being the first to rant their two- cents sentiments.

Photo C/Owww.radioaustralia.net.au

Forgive me for the hardheaded and soiled words, it feels like insults but this is what happens when a sane mind, I mean a mind that is functional, can get when such despicable inhumane acts can be unleashed to the very species that is we-men- not only share same class but the very beings that have been sacrificed to bring forth the children of our motherland. Now, to avoid digressing from expressing my sentiments let me try and articulate why I believe men should RESPECT WOMEN and all beings (quite sarcastic to see such a placard displayed, speaks volume of the emotive motive)

#1 “A Woman brought you to this world hence you have no right to disrespect one”- Tupac. No matter how big or small, short or long D*** head you have grown to be, she gave her all to see you forth into this life. If you don’t give a hoot about that, ask the millions either drained down the sewer system or the dead an buried in cemeteries what it felt like being aborted or struggled to death and denied an opportunity to live. Absolutely, for this very reason a WOMAN deserves respect, whether she is your blood relative or not.

#2 God created man to protect not neglect, embrace not disgrace a WOMAN –Mathew 2:18-25. It is such a disgrace to see a MAN turn into a beast and devour the very flock he is supposed to look after. Who shall the flock run too? As men folk we should live to our desired obligations not misuse the very strength freely given to cause malicious havoc. Then, and only then, shall we please our Lord.

Photo c/o www.demotix.com

#3 As a man you have an obligation to control your thoughts, not let your desires control your upstairs. How then can your fellow men or even your own children respect you back if you are quick to blame your poor judgment on your aroused penis as a replacement to your brain? Remember, respect is earned not demanded, if you respect women then they respect you.

#4 Any forceful undressing of a WOMAN amounts to RAPE and nothing less.  Any man who undresses a woman either in private or in public without her utter consent beyond doubt is a RAPIST and a MANIAC, a disgrace to humanity. He deserves to face the bullet as he has defamed the very nudity he is trying hard to cover. Nothing falls short of honor than a man who undresses a WOMAN without her consent looks into eyes and goes home smiles at his mother, wife, sister, daughter or any lady. Simply you are a BEAST.

#5 It is not in the nature of man to “Mansplain” instead men should be able to simply explain their displeasure with a situation. When the menfolk become a pack of complainers then the society is thrown into a pandemonium as we have witnessed the last few days.  Men should be leaders who only seek to show direction. If you cannot respect your mother or even wife or daughter, then respect yourself that way you can be respected. Let’s not put the entire menfolk into jeopardy, the world still need us.

Photo c/o stream.aljazeera.com

That said I rest my pride as a man and instead call upon our ladies to also try and swallow theirs as I have found it does not get you fat in any way. I admit that the world is no longer in the hands of our forefathers neither in our own. However, the developments have tremendously threatened to take us back to where we have fought to move from, the Stone Age era. Many women today have ignorantly tried to compete with their great grandmothers who were unfortunate not to have seen what clothes looked like.  They expose what is meant to be disposed; they seek to draw forth what is supposed to be withdrawn from, whereas they want to get away with such atrocious acts in the midst of the prying perverted eyes of their opposites. I mean it’s like an antelope attempting to catwalk in the midst of hungry pack of lions assuming that the lions might not be having teeth to do any harm. Simply, you put yourself at the mercy of beast.

The earlier we all realize that the human race is faced by an imminent catastrophic disaster pitying pornographic exposure vs. Moral decorum then the faster we will all put our heads together and instead of undressing the dress we then address the test. In the meantime let’s retrace our tracks and find out where we actually went wrong in the first place. Together we stand divided we fall.

 I subscribe to DIGNITY, RESPECT AND JUSTICE FOR ALL, a good course it is. 

William Murithi, © 2014

Our History, Our Heritage: Embracing our Origin for a Prosperous Future

“Knock,............knock,................................knock………………….. knock!”

Before we could even respond to the robust knock on the door, it gave way. As the door slowly curved in, a huge chisel-shaped human figure that almost scared the life out of us was appearing. For a   minute I held tightly on my grandmother’s left leg. I’m sure she might have been shaken by my cowardly act than by the monster of a figure at our kitchen door. 

photo courtesy of ancestral voices 

This was not an everyday occurrence that someone would appear from nowhere, unannounced just when my grandmother’s tales had taken the life out of our playful nights. However, this time it was not only a surprise but also one of those moments that stuck with you for half a century of your life. Mambo Jogu, had travelled miles on foot as he made his way to Katongu village after years of isolation in the far hills of Kiambogo. One of my late grandfather’s kinsmen, he was sentenced to years of tumultuous exile, despite the generous sacrifices and pleadings of my grandfather concerning his innocence.

Mambo Jogu, or simply MJ had years ago defied his forefathers deeply held traditions by ignoring the summons of the Njamba Noru (council of elders) after his heinous acts of impunity. To the ridicule of many, MJ was sentenced to exile for 40 harvest seasons (translated to 20 years) and was required never to be seen in the vicinity of Katongu until the years had elapsed. As a consequence of defying this order, his head would be presented to as a sacrifice to appease the ancestors. MJ had no choice than to honor his day in court rather than face his ancestors.  Nonetheless the village was not devoid of such acts. What was not clear is why the kinsmen of Katongu had seen it fit to send one of its brave men into wilderness.

“Ariririririririiii riiii riiii” my grandmother’s joy was beyond belief. I have never seen her being overwhelmed like this before.

We all jumped on our feet and stampeded to the door almost crushing my grandmother’s cherished gourd that stored last night’s brew.

“CHILDREN, CHILDREN…. Watch your steps or I will send you to sleep” (This sent a chill down our spine knowing how true she was to her words.)

Though it sounded a bit harsh at the moment as most of us were acting out of our own will as everyone was caught by surprise, obedience was called for without second thoughts. In a short while MJ was settled and clutching a mug of Granma’s porridge unperturbed, his face betraying the emotions we all had amassed since he stepped in.

The unfolding events in the last couple of minutes imbibed into my thoughts as if the concentration substrate had conspired to cause a PH imbalance. As I sat still, my palms sunk in my cheeks as if to deflate the last traces of air from within. It had never occurred to me before how the face of cruelty could turn its wrath on its son till this moment. They had come to witness one of its sons, go through the wrath of this deeply held traditions. For once, I was lost for words as to where did such repulsive customs originate from. However, it must never go unsaid that this same culture had made heroes celebrated worldwide as well as labeled the bravest of men’s as cowards.

No matter how inquisitive I was no woman or man in the village of Katongo had acquired the

photo courtesy of www.intrepidtravel.com

courage to satisfy my thirst for answers. They all seemed surprised of my braveness to question these beliefs of their claimed gods. Since then I came to understand the origin of my clan’s cautiousness. Everyone seemed not to exercise some criticism to the traditions, taboos, and all the tribe’s does and don’ts. However, I appreciated their continued perceptions of those that dared to break away from this culture in pursuit of their beliefs. It might have been a taboo to break away from what seemed to have become a norm. How fortunate were my kinsmen that they had lived in tandem with all the mysteries surrounding them without having to question their origin.

In view of the world order today, I see my kinsmen spread far and wide; they have mastered the art of all nations, both in language and cultures. Their interactions with the nations are evidenced by their intermarriages and multilingual skills. Nothing has come close to what MJ epitomized. We have become accustomed to the adventures of our thinking not the mere dictations of our kin. We endeavor to make our lives and those of our children better than our forefathers. We embody the human spirit that depicts struggles and success alike without the deceitfulness of our toils. In as much as the world has washed our history in a bid to blacken the mystery that surrounds our origin, nothing seems to defeat the fact that we have deep roots in our conservative myths and traditions.

Let it be told that our forefathers struggled to defend their origin; they sacrificed their toils for the sake of our future. Midst the race struggles they defeated the devil. They stood aloof of the fact that theirs was a fight in vain. Today we can never be wished away just because they sought to gain a true identity. They unmasked and risked to face a bitter backlash from the rest of the world, who thought they never mattered.

c/o www.nanaimoafricanheritagesociety.com

Although we may not be in agreement with some of their atrocious deeds, we seem confident theirs was a worthy course. One that has made us who we are and has continued to raise more mystery than history can behold. We are because they were, we shine because they persevered, and we progress because they digressed from the norm. Our forefathers lived according to what was their source of heritage, whether we term it archaic or backward. Their customs, taboos, and traditions were a testimony of their existence. Recognition that they were present before us, their existence is an attestation of our origin.

Therefore, as we celebrate the BLACK HISTORY MONTH let us be humbled by our forefathers’ acts of courage to stand put against the currents of the world. Let us embrace the culture that unites us, and preserve that which identifies us. We should remember that we are a race that should embrace each other in DEEDS and in SPIRIT. Our unity should not be a coincidence but that which was intended by our forefathers. We should not be quick to condemn those among us who stand robust of their culture in mind. However, our conscience should befit that of a hero in times of war, to stand and defend our common identity. We are yet to achieve that which we are, as we work twice as hard to access our endowments.

Let us embrace each other and live knowing that our entitlement is not a silver platter but a conscious will to overcome the hurdles that our forefathers fought to standby. Just as Mambo J. understood the heinous acts of his kinsmen and obeyed without an atom of bereavement despite a life devoid of tranquility. I urge you all to learn the art of embrace and forge forward with humility to claim that which you are entitled. The Kingship is ours, where, OUR HISTORY IS OUR HERITAGE. 

William Murithi, © 2014

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE GRADUATING CLASS 2014: THE INCONCEIVABLE REALITIES ABOUT LIFE AND THE REAL WORLD.

Dear Graduates,

First of all, I take this opportunity to congratulate you all from the bottom of my heart on this grand occasion that marks a great milestone in your lives.

It is said that there are two days in a man’s life that really matter, the day you are BORN, and the day you discover WHY?  Therefore, don’t rest until you discover why you were born? After which you will make your day of birth worthwhile by living your God-given purpose here on earth without regrets.

Secondly, I personally agree that it is no mean fit to survive in confines of the ‘academic prison’ and emerge worthy of honor. Therefore, I understand the hastiness to depart. However, I will be quick to remind you that the end of one thing signifies the beginning of another. As you celebrate, eat and drink the much you can, dance and be jubilant as much as possible, rejoice and give thanks too and of course pocket as much notes and coins as you receive. But remember, indeed today is just but a beginning for your next encounter.

Thirdly, I understand many of you have deeply persevered to this day; some have revered this university, others have loathed and smeared this very institution that you have called your dwelling place for the last couple of years.  And many others can’t wait to kiss this ANU goodbye. For the few that wish they had more time here, bless you, we shall soon see each other often.

Nevertheless, truth be told, don’t be quick to dishonor, or curse or even demean your Alma Mata, for this institution will forever be stamped on your forehead. The fact of the matter is you will either miss it or wish you had used your time efficiently when you were here. Remember? The friends and foes, happy and sad moments, those laughter-filled and tearful days, the painful and gainful periods that you have experienced here will forever be embellished in your memories.

Finally, close to two years ago, we sat where you are seated. We were filled with excitement just like you. We felt we had conquered just as you feel now. And above all, those feelings came with a sense of achievement. However, there are some things I hope we had known earlier than we did. Please understand, I do not mean to steal joy from you or be the bearer of sad news this very significant day of your life.

All I want to do is let you into a little secret to surviving, a day, maybe a week or a month or the next couple of years of your life in this world. So I beg you, in the name of our Lord, if there is anything else you will take with you from this day other than “The Powers to Read and Write”, I beseech you take these words with you.

1.      Although, you have achieved your degree with honors (Phi Delta Labda) know that “THE WORLD OWES YOU NOTHING”. In fact you are a nuisance as you keep on threatening its existence with your presence. You are guaranteed nothing, so be prepared to work hard to succeed. To compete with an ever increasing list of unemployed graduates for the almost extinct Job opportunities. Therefore, hard work, networking and simply working diligently is the only key to succeed.

2.      The world outside the confines of the university is harsh. REJECTION IS REAL AND SO IS UNEMPLOYMENT. You will be rejected several times, in some cases judged by the look of your resume. Thus ensure you grow a thick skin and always stand out from the rest of the crowd, from your resume, to your personality, to your character, every little detail about you should set you apart in order to get the chance you desire; to be heard.

3.      Know that WHAT YOU CAN POTENTIALLY ACHIEVE IS MORE VALUABLE THAN WHAT YOU HAVE ALREADY ACHIEVED. Always present yourself as W.I.P (Work in Progress) rather than a finished product. You will be offered many opportunities simply based on your willingness to learn and potential to grow than your already acquired (or is it crammed?) knowledge and skills.

4.      Approximately, know that IT TAKES ABOUT 6 MONTHS BEFORE YOU CAN GET YOUR FIRST JOB. So I urge you to always wear your armor of  3 P’s -Perseverance, Persistence, and Positiveness conjoined with the 3C’s – which you are well accustomed of now, Character, Competence and Community. Consider volunteering, starting your own business and even furthering your studies. You will need to be realistic and at the same time hopeful to succeed in getting the job you need. As Zig Ziglar puts it “The door to balanced success opens widest on the hinges of HOPE and ENCOURAGEMENT”.

5.      When you are young, YOU WORK TO LEARN NOT TO EARN. I know most of you will most likely be choosier based on financial gain, or will get into fields that you have not trained for. Be it sales, casual work, or data entry. My advice, do not decline any reasonable offer; the skills you gain will be valuable in your career progression. The small setbacks might be actually a set up for a better opportunity so be wise.

6.      I urge you to seek OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND TALENTS, USE YOUR TIME FOR CONSTRUCTIVE ACTIVITIES. Read those books you have put aside over the years, learn a new language, or learn to play an instrument. Just make sure you are not idol, as they say an idle mind is a devils workshop. Don’t leave room for negativity, regrets, insanity, or even vices to crop into your life. Moreover, I borrow Bob Marley’s words “…..don’t worry about a thing as everything is going to be alright”.

7.      Remember REAL CHANGE REQUIRES REAL CHANGE. It never goes unsaid that a lot will change from this day henceforth. You will need to plan your time, develop your skills on your own, take control of your career, and pay your own bills. As almost everyone seems resistant to change, you must accept change. After all during your time at the university I believe you have been prepared well and acquired characteristics necessary for success as long as you can recognize, develop and use them.

8.      In whatever you decide to do with your life, be it setting up your own business, getting married or even changing your course, DON’T BE DISTRACTED BY CRITICISM. I want you to remember that, the only taste of success that some people (critics) will ever have is when they take a bite out of you. Therefore, don’t allow the mosquito like-minded individuals to distract you from realizing your dreams. As much as you have a choice to listen to them discern and separate the wheat from the churn and make your time worthwhile.

Above all, P.G.F PUT GOD FIRST, because God has declared that he has the best plans for you. Endeavor to align your goals and dreams with his will. When you do this you will never go wrong as he will order the steps you take and help you not to veer away from your path.  Human beings perish for lack of knowledge, ensure you don’t parish because you have chosen to be ignorant. Let God be your GUIDE, the Holy Spirit be your Helper and the Bible your Source of Knowledge.

Dear graduates, today is your day, thus I have no choice rather than to let you go ahead with your celebrations. You will hear a lot of things from every nook and crack, wise and unwise, fallacies and anecdotes or hilarious and depressing, that is life.  But at the end of the day, or the beginning of the week come Monday, reality will hit hard like a thunderous headache. The choices you make there henceforth will be vital in your success in years to come and in future.  Thus, I will urge you to be diligent and do not get into a comfort zone. You will be judged harshly by the community if you don’t fulfill your mandate.

Remember you are the envy of your PEERS, the pride of your PARENTS, the hero of your VILLAGE and above all, the hope of our NATION.

Without further ado, I rest my case and hope my two pence advice will at least help you discover the right purpose and compass to find your direction in Life.

HURAAAAAAAAAAAY…… let me be the first to WELCOME YOU ALL TO THE ANU Alumni Association…………. Once again CONGRATULATIONS. 

Yours sincerely,

A Mere Citizen of our beloved Nation and Self-declared Spokesperson of the REAL WORLD

William Murithi

© 2014