Penny's SAHM Journal

January 4, 2003

Collin, Caleb and I went to lunch today with Mr. Oke and his family to celebrate Mr. Oke's 81st birthday. Mr. Oke is a Nigerian I met soon after relocating to Florida. One morning, when driving home after taking Caleb to school, I saw a man with a strong resemblance to my deceased dad walking along a walking/bike trail. This resemblance caused me to turn my car around to get a second look!

A week later I spotted him out on a walk again. This time I felt compelled to stop and meet him. I had no idea how he would receive me, but my spirit was telling me I had to stop. When I approached him, I explained why I was eager to meet him. He looked interested in learning more. He received my words with a smile and open arms. As I stood next to him, I noticed that he even possessed some of my dad's mannerisms, too. When my cousin heard the story, she commented that his personality must have also been similar to my dad -- to welcome a stranger like that! It was a wonderful meeting and we've kept in touch ever since.

Our families have now become one. Mr. Oke's daughter, a few years older than me, is like a true sister. When we are together, she tells everyone, "This is my sister." Her husband feels like my true brother-in-law and her sons like my very own nephews.......and, what makes my connection to this family even more special is that they are from Nigeria -- those who knew my dad know just how passionate he was about Africa, its culture and its people -- a passion which he has passed on to me!

Penny 1/4/03
Momtoaboy@aol.com