Tribute to Elder (CSP) Abang Philip

Where does one begin to unpack the debilitating feeling of loss, grief and disorientation.

‘Dad has passed!!’ Said the subbing voice on the phone. I could hear choruses of mourners in the background… My biggest fear has just sucker punched me.

As the news spread, the clouds got wind and it opened its gates. The clouds rained thunderous tears. A king is gone; a kind, peaceful, loving, caring, funny and compassionate being has left us. My hero, my role model, my biggest idol, and greatest inspiration has departed.

DEATH, why do you play such cruel jokes?! You have stolen a great man away from his people and community.

“God puts kings in a place for a season and reason” Denzel once said.

Dad’s season was too short, he was too young, besides, we had unfinished business. Loads of promises unfulfilled.

Death, you poked me hard. You hurt me badly. No pity, no sympathy or compassion. You may have taken away my beloved father, but you are not taking away his legacy, his virtue, and the ocean of memories he has left behind. Dad made his mark. He created an impact and he created me. The engravings of his works, his love, and benevolence will forever be etched in our hearts.

O Death, you thought you had won, but the joke is on you.

Lest I forgot, Dad, I pleaded to God to send you to be my guardian angel, then I realized you had given so much on earth. With a single candle you lit up so many people’s worlds. I plead God to give you rest as His army of Angels will take charge. My salutations to you for designing my life, and my gratitude to God for choosing you as my dad.

Adieu Papa till we meet again.
Love you for life.

Philip Abang