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🌹 The Bleeding Rose 🌹
CHAPTER ONE
Rose-stew Living
An attempted suicide had just failed and the whole city of Ajaokuta in complete shock yet the fishermen had added a feather to their caps as they rescued SHOLA who jumped off the popular River Niger bridge into the ever ready river which has an historical record of keeping souls in her belly carefully without mistakes. Indeed SHOLA's case is still a miracle that may never repeat itself until Christ Jesus comes again.
In this place where the third largest steel plant on Earth is located may be not presently but once held such record. Two things so matter as a fact of reality they are the parameters for measuring true success no matter how much you have achieved without at least one of these! Then you are considered a joker of all times.
I call them ' Rose-Stew' ; for an educated child especially one who performs excellently well is considered as a 'rose flower'. For he or she is so cherished that no matter the age! He or she has become a public figure for life then to seal up the matter if such a child is a product of ASCSS or ASPS for the formal is a secondary school while the latter a primary.
Also a commissioned military officer is regarded a 'stew' just as plate of rice is so attractive and celebrated when the touch of a red chicken stew is upon it so was for any family who had a child in the Armed Force but such respect knows no boundaries if your child is an officer like 'Abu Ali' or ' Officer Tolu'. Forward more having both earns you the title ' the Rose'.
Shola Giwa had won almost every medal from ASPS 3 . Now, since she became a student of ASCSS 1, she had registered her name at the school hall of fame to have won the most prestigious award four times straight which is called ' Trophy' so she was name branded ' the tropy daughter'.
'Trophy' was for the overall best at the end of each session, Shola won the junior category all through yet much expection in the air as the last term in the session just started. It was cocksure to say: ' Shola Giwa would pickup the trophy for the second time under the senior category.'
Just last term 'the graphics' had feature her as the big story with GYB presenting an award to her as overall best in the intra state competition of Nigeria Association of Engineers kogi state chapter.
But as at today! Shola had attempted suicide which failed yet leaving the whole state in wonder; what went wrong with the state icon?
who most had predicted would soon become the national envy as she had brought pride and joy to all.
Shola couldn't imagine how much shame she would have to face and the stain which stainless Giwas' would have to battle with for life because she had been put into a family way so this may Justify her action.
When asked later; what went wrong shola?
' Robert Greene! Robert Greene! Robert Greene!' shola screened.
Hmm. . . I think, this story I will tell, will explain Shola's response to the question. My name is Napoleon ( the story teller).
CHAPTER TWO
Senior Joy
Indeed I have never felt such kind of love before, she took me like a baby brother. I did recall without any mix-up how we meant. Just resumed as a JSS 1 student @ the almighty ASCSS 1 with a lot of things for me to move to my class which was at the extreme end of the school. While other new students like me had elderly siblings to support and give them direction but for me! I was the only tree which make up this forest so I carried my cross by myself all alone.
I had fallen off the walk way with my backing bag loaded with books, a locker & chair on my head then with my left hand I held a: cutless, hoe, and broom( these were necessary items to resume with). So she came saying:
' Hello! Dear. I'm sorry for what happened let me help you with your locker and chair.' this was after assisting me up. I will never forget that day because as we went on I heard other students calling that name: ' senior Joy! senior Joy! senior Joy. . .'
Her name is Joy the present assistant senior prefect 2 who was already in SSS 3 so we became friends or will I say she was my school mother and I, her school son. This relationship continued even after she graduated she did visit me at home and even at school to see how I was doing. Indeed she brought me to the state of flying colours even though we had one challenge! I couldn't cope with financial accounting in senior class.
While senior Joy was a lord of accounting who wanted to become an accountant yet I was just the opposite though I had a good accounting teacher ( Mr. Omomoh) still no show yet.
Now mummy will make my visit senior Joy's home friday till sundays so she could help me out.
She was the baby of her home & so was I to her, she was an elder sister I never had. By the way I was the only child of my family so I had access to almost everything in the house although she is strict yet accommodating.
On this fateful day I came across a squeeze paper in a bin inside her room so the content reads:
" Dear Sis,
Thanks a million times; Bobo & I really appreciate the opportunity to drink from this well ( God's help center conference), she served & serviced us both spirit & physical wise with her delicious meal (Labourers retreat).
I am humbly writing to apply for future & life partnership schooling with you ( like am serious oh) yet you know we all have to build capacities in: Academic & Careers, spiritual , physical, financial, & others so it's necessary we face important matters first .
STILL
I needed to declare my manifesto before election starts since I can't stop other candidates' contest (please note I did apply early . . .)
I am not doing this for fun but my sweetest & most learned friend (The Holy Spirit) knows the best for
me.
Lastly, Please! let Mummy know about this because no be backyard Rons I wan do oh, na legit one with Christ Jesus as our foundation.
My mummy, Bro. Chris , & Bobo are already aware so let your people know. Thanks "
I became more confused and troubled then she came into the room.
' what are you doing with my letter? "
Please! I just saw it in the bin so I picked it up but seriously I am confused. What election is the writer contesting for? What kind of scholarship is called: Life partnership?
"Napoleon these things are so complicated for you to understand just wait & grow but for now you must give financial accounting all your time. Ok!" Ok, senior Joy.
Soon she sat on her table to write while I as acting as if I did study my books. It was a letter she was writing and the words say:
"Dear N,
You must give all your heart to studies! Don't be troubled any longer by the letter you saw. It was from a teacher friend who is taking of marriage in 2013 while I still have till 2017 to graduate as an accountant.
Napoleon! Face you books, for I will be leaving for school next month so no room for marriage until I graduate. Ok dear?"
I was shocked that she knew I wss tailing on her then she walked out smiling without a word.
CHAPTER THREE
Aminant plus Yusuf
MY DEAR DIARY,
I write with pains for I am being drowned in the memories of past, oh! my diary. . .
I had gone for PUTME so on may way from tutorial class for my exams were 3days ahead then I headed for the famous Queen Aminant Hostel where my cousin (Aishat) was my host.
Before these words: 'Obi is a boy' a group of what I could describe as ' Goons' attacked me and would want to take advantage of me in all ramification. This was common in Nigeria Higher Institutions especially during the period of PUME or Freshers week on campus as matter of fact the only Nigerian University (UNN) did cancel PUME a certain year because of the abuse PUME candidates got the previous year especially as most females lost their glories as young ladies while others gave it out against their will.
It was this pool of truama I would have drank from but thanks to this Robinhood of a guy or will I say Oliver Green the popular 'green arrow'.
I have never in my entire life seen a man fought so swift , skilled yet merciful not even the popular Kunfu Masters: Bruce Lee, Jack Chen, and Jet Lee could be compared if they were all merged together as one. He soon disarmed the Goons yet let them run for their lives as they ran in pains.
I found out from the conversation we had as he did escort me down to my destination that he was a final year student from department of Chemistry in ABU. My name is Aminant thanks for your help." I am Yusuf, please don't walk home late next time and be mindful of the route you take." This was how our conversation ended.
Will I say that fate brought us? I ran into a young handsome man while coming from PUME hall by 3pm that day. Indeed I was looking out for Aishat who had become my tour guide for the last three days. Behold as I tried to apologise yet the voice sounds familiar. Ah! It was Yusuf with joy I embraced him only to remember that this was Zaria so I quickly refrain myself so I had to apologise twice for I had just committed two offenses at once.
He also came for Haruna his cousin who indeed was a seat ahead of my at the exam hall. Soon than expected Aishat joined the conversation for she Knew Yusuf who was two levels ahead of her in the same department. So beyond pleasantries! we did exchanged eleven digits yet at hostel Aishat wouldn't let me be as she told me of the great exploits Yusuf had made for that department and school in general.
I wasn't admitted that same year which was my second year of application yet our friendship grew stronger and was strengthen as Yusuf would encourage me not to back down on my academic dreams.
He did say Winny Mandala was famous for this saying " If you hit a woman! You hit a Nation and If you hit a Nation! you hit a rock." What makes a woman a Nation is beyond birth giving but quality education so dear Aminant fight a good fight of faith as Believers in Christ Jesus would say.
No matter how weak & broken I was this statements fired me back to life especially as a northerner; where females had little or on right to be educated so I did say to myself that: Aminant is very luck and fortunate.
Yusuf's love for protection & defense of human lives brought him into NDA while he was in 200level then I just became a student of ABU Zaria to study 'International Relations'. Our bound grew stonger as he would drive from Kaduna to Zaria to check on Haruna's welfare yet won't go back with out saying 'adieu' to me, this generated the famous formula (Aminant plus Yusuf equal tommorow) on campus among lecturers who knew him well and my mates.
BUT TODAY, OH! MY DAIRY!
It's like dwelling as cheff before the wind as I jab into the hands of time to download some of these events though it hurts yet because of tomorrow I lay them all on you my dear Dairy.
Who would say to me? :
' *My dearest sweet heart
* you can lean on my shoulders for I care!
* Be not afraid for your soldier is at watch.
*Don't worry, let me help you with the dishes while you focus on the meal
or
* what should I assist you with; to make the cooking faster & stress free!
*Is that the total expenses for the year! are you sure it's enough?'
Who would say to Ali?
' *Dad is proud of you my boy
* Watch over wife for me!
* I am right behind you son'
I did remember, you promised to be there still the end but today another chapter in my life just opened. Before now I had always lean on his last words he gave to me while I was going for my NYSC in Lagos when he had just become a commissioned officer and was moved to Enugu 82 division.
His words were: 'No matter what comes my way, you will never have a reval and I will always return because everyday is a good day to die!'
Now, only three days to Ali's second birthday! And Yusuf . . .
I recalled how he spoke those words in line with Col. Abu Ali's : "Nigerians I don't think I can make it but please don't forget my sacrifice" Yet the name 'Joy' rang all through Yusuf last words so I asked who is Joy?
But now, Yusuf was gone beyond my reach and I can't forget his looks as he died , they were that of a fallen hero who was sorry yet couldn't say a word not even 'adieu' his favorite of all times.
So I wonder, who is Joy?
my dear dairy! For Yusuf was among the victims who survived the Metelu Base attack which claimed the lives 88 Nigeria soldier and officers but couldn't hold on till tomorrow.
WHO IS JOY? OH MY DAIRY!
CHAPTER FOUR
Joy minus Aminant
ABU Zaria is notable for producing quality so Joy was half way to pick-up her degree in accounting when the town of Zaria was painted red as students were in shock with gory images beclouded their thinking.
The first female combatant pilot in Nigeria Air Force had just died after hours of struggle to sustain her @ the hospital in the NDA Headquarters where she had been knocked down by a reversing car inside NDA Headquarters.
Officer Tolu had visited Zaria campus at the beginning of the Semester with: #AfricanGirlsCanBecome #IfOnlySupported
which was a scholarship scheme to support girls on campus to pursue their tomorrow through academic power.
Joy was among those whose educational achievement so far added feather to her cap for her programme would be fully funded by Officer T's foundation. This was the reason she cry into sickness. It was just only a week to exams she did return back to herself as result of multiple shock .
In Enugu-Ezekiel, Enugu-Nigeria where a slot for session break job was available. This Joy would always jump at to enable her increase her earning to support her family's efforts so most breaks; she is far away from home.
As officer Yusuf strolled in with company of soldiers to take break from day patrol. It was Joy who did attend to them with her lively charisma she will make this officer and his boys to frequent the Ishe-obere class restaurant.
To crown it all , Yusuf is an alumni of ABU Zaria this was the spark that kept the conversation going. It develop to the point where even the blind could 'spot Isaac with Rebecca like king Abimelech did @ Gerar.'
CHAPTER FIVE
Joy & Jim
As weeping blew alarm @ the compound of Alhaji Kaduna Suleman where women showed how gifted mourners they were yet men of timber & caliber dashed into the compound at Kaduna for condolences though due to Islamic rites, Officer Yusuf corpse had been buried at Kafanchan is home town just yesterday still the whole television street in Kaduna was at stand still.
Now, a woman who could be best described as Mercy Johnson with figure 8 like shape just that this woman was not as tall compared to the Nollywood star. She held a child of about 4years who walked in slow motions like the woman did.
She said: "My name is Joy & this is Jim, my four years old son. Please accept our condolences, we pray for strength which Christ Jesus give to enable us all to recover quickly but we want to see Hajiya Aminant, wife of the diseased."
Immediately she stepped into the compound earlier, side talks arose yet while she spoke; the compound could be liken unto a grave yeard as her charismatic voice arrested all attention to herself indeeded she was gifted then she walked to a different direction as she was led and the side talks even became worse.
The reason for the side talks caught the attention of 'Nana Kaduna' whose mouth couldn't close any longer as a sign of how much shock passed through her system by sighting these visitors especially for the little child.
She had cleaned up her tears when a friend jabbed her saying:
"This is another Yusuf who had returned oh.
Kai! He walks like Yusuf @ age 5 especially during saleh celebration. Yusuf will walk in slow motions with this particular posture this child walks."
who are these visitors? was the new alarm in the compound of Alhaji Kaduna.
CHAPTER SIX
Two Plus Two
I can't forget the last hours of Yusuf as he was in pains untold while the tears from my eyes could make an ocean. His last words were:
'Please forgive me, I had kept this too long but I say today Aminant forgive me. While I was at Enugu, I lost focus as I came across Joy so I didn't keep the promise which I made before I left for Enugu and it has been a huntsman for my peace.' So! you are the Joy?
Welcome! all the same to the Yusuf's family but I just wanted you to know that Ali is two years today and Yusuf's family members had taken almost everything he owns yet the armed force is a quick sand to stand upon because those who stood on her had their hopes drowned. I await the religious rites to be concluded as my last respect for him indeed he was: a father, friend, helpmate, & husband like no other so if anything is left then we can share.
Ma, I am Joy; with all sincerity of heart I plead for your understanding and forgiveness. I was in two hundred level when I did read a book that altered my path for life. Before then I had read a book from the same author titled: '48 laws of power' this is the secret of most political and charismatic icons because these laws would give you edge to manipulate peoples' emotion & feelings to get whatever you want.
I wanted to be one of ABU Zaria's female demagogue of all time, I am a gifted orator plus a red-blooded being so the path for demagogue-ship was almost set but I needed to polish these natural skills into flames so I would read anything which will keep the fire burning towards this goal.
While I was in ASCSS 1, we would seat among peers to describe what tomorrow holds for us. As the assistant senior prefect 2, everyone pointed towards me to share my own view. I would say: "I want to be an accountant but a very influential one who would dominate the political sphere."
My choice for ABU Zaria was channeled by this desire because I saw ABU as the only platform where: the wealthy, the average, and the poor could meet for studies. If I could only play my cards well then victory is mine so for three years I would apply until I became a student.
I was from the average home so I did other odd jobs to increase the naira in my pocket. These became platforms for me to practically use my oratory skills for I had become a trophy student in 1st semester then started building links of connection which was how most odd jobs came my way.
At Enugu where I met officer Yusuf and his boys, I had just lost the opportunity of being fully sponsored by officer T's foundation for I was part of the first batch. Her death! I won't forget as a matter of remembrance Jim here also bears 'Tolu'.
I had just completed Robert Greene second book titled: ' Power of seduction'. I was hell to pay, for I had become possessed by what I call : 'coquette spirit' for I flirt with almost every man at first conversation except for those who carried Christ Jesus truly.
Most men I came across would keep coming to Ishe-obere class restaurant so I made a lot of sales, got a lot of motive attached gifts yet my pride as a woman was intact for I did what was needful but shun such useless men when they crossed their boundaries because I was never seductively dressed but I cried a seducing spirit which would give them no rest.
Officer Yusuf was also a victim but I had respect for his person because in Ajaokuta my birth place, two things were consider rosy-stew: Education and Armed Force especially commissioned Officers.
One thing that struck me about him was that he was clean( not only in appearance). He was a teetotaller, compassionate, and responsible human. In summary he went through the armed force but rejected the influences of the force over him.
Our friendship soar all heights especially since he was an alumni of the prestigious ABU Zaria, people did
say: 'Even the blind could spot Isaac & Rebecca as king Abimelech did @ Gerar. '
And things happen so fast as I woke up that morning to realise, I had lost my glory as a young woman. I became sick for I have just betrayed Christ Jesus truth & heavy investment over my life though both parties weeped for their falls but for me the world was just concluded.
I was hunted even down to last year, as hot & fire breathe my society gave me for I had become the most disgusting thing to have happened in my family. Then I wrote to my department for help to leave school and return later, thanks to Jesus Christ for the help of good leadership so my department understood me, sought the approval of the school then I was granted 3-5years to return back & complete my degree.
I have paid dearly with: pains, tears, time, resources, and relationships for this mistake. Thanks to Christ Jesus who gave me another chance by forgiving me!
My family accepted and reunited with me after a whole period of rejection. And the teacher whose proposal I shunned the month I got admitted into school is now my lovely wedded husband today.
It was both grace and mercy that spoke for me for I had rejected wisdom when Kachi( my friend) said:
"Hmm. . . Joy! Robert Greene books are like devil giving you counsel on matters about Christ Jesus. You know that it only leads to quick destruction? 'Kachi, you fear too much like a woman. I have a very strong heart nothing can break through and I will ask the Holy Spirit for his help.' Have you not heard Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche say that :What you hate you can't attract and what you attract you can't hate? 'Kachi I promise to be a true soldier who will die at her post. I love Jesus Christ like you do!.' "
Lastly ma, here is Napoleon a friend who had led us all the way from Ajaokuta to Kaduna for we had of the death just three days ago during news @ 9pm. He also was my junior at secondary school who didn't love accounting yet had a senior friend like me and the best accounting Teacher of all times ( Mr. Omomoh) yet accounting for him was like relocating to Mercury. He loves story telling , a writer, and a teacher by profession.
Napoleon is the secretary of 'Tolu's vision Foundation' this is to strengthen the vision officer Tolu had before she passed on #AfricanGirlsCanBecome #IfOnlySupported .
My husband (kachi) has helped me built it from the scratch since we got married last year, he sent his regards but his out on a trip for TED talk @ India we saw him off to the Abuja airport before coming down. Kachi as a friend had stood althrough with us as a matter of fact ; the father Jimi Tolu Kachi has ever known. Please ma, excuse me I will be back shortly.
Oh! Writer Napoleon, thank you for the kind gesture towards our family. so! do you have anything to say? You have been silent all along.
Thanks a million times ma. Thanks for your understanding and forgiveness. I am first a teacher then a writer who orally tells his written stories. I will write a story titled:' The Bleeding Rose' it's to thank you and many others who have lost their loved ones yet refuse to give up though the society still envy you as the owner of a rose flower (educated & married to an officer) yet almost nobody knows of this untold part of your story which is the actual thorns from the rose flower itself.
I want to invite you for our flag off ceremony for the foundation which will be at the NDA headquarters in honour unto officer Tolu (the first African female combatant pilot) it would be our honour to have you ma.
I am a teacher! Not feminist,
I am tacher! Not masculist, I am a teacher! Not a child activist.
I am a teacher who believes in the doctrines of Christ Jesus who would say: "
🤔let the little children come to me. 🤔 if you know you have not sinned be the first to cast a stone on her.'
🤔 Zachius come down today I will eat with you @ your house".
I believe everyone has rights! so such should be fought for yet their are boundaries. In summary : Husband love your wives while wives respect your husbands, children obey your parents yet parents don't provoke your children, servants obey your masters still masters don't abuse your servants ( Eph.5:22-25, 6:1-9).
This, I watch over as the gate keeper to make sure that the society doesn't interfere with these orders yet make sure no party rides on the other.
Ma, I want you to remember me in prayers that God gives me a wife like you who would easily forgive not because I want to offer her but so peace can rain but most especially God should give me a wife like 'senior Joy'. She is a woman with a big heart, accommodating, understanding, caring, and a good cook ( kai! She would also feature in 'The Bleeding Rose'). Please ma don't tell I said this oh!
Napoleon! Napoleon! Napoleon!
I had what you said this time about me. "Ah! but it the truth senior Joy now. . . The truth should be told always."
Mummy Aminant here is a birthday presence for our son (Ali).'
Haba Joy! Thank you for the joy & peace you brought to us especially me ' The Bleeding Rose' as writer Napoleon would paint me. May God almighty see you through in all you do especially as you return back to school. Thanks for the offer to work with the foundation & my regards to our husband ( Kachi).
Ok! Hajiya, it's time to go.
Napoleon & Jim! it's time to go. And Ali see you soon but for you Hajiya Aminant continue to be strong for us all.
NOTE TO ALL
To very single soldier either dead or alive, thank you for accepting your nations call for service.
BUT
There is another call to service we (citizens of Earth) must know. We are all soldiers! @ various positions in: politics, leadership, education, science, art, economy, farming, media, banking, & ministries (religion) yet one day we will all die at our posts.
WHAT NEXT?
Whether you believe it or yes! Judgement comes then where will you be?
Hell or heaven?
I invite you through (jh3:16-18) which is the base for all matter! accept and believe in Christ Jesus today and be assured of heaven when death comes. Thanks
©Njnvalue
#Nonfiction #ShortStory #TheBleedingRose #ChristJesus
© All Rights Reserved
Rose-stew Living
An attempted suicide had just failed and the whole city of Ajaokuta in complete shock yet the fishermen had added a feather to their caps as they rescued SHOLA who jumped off the popular River Niger bridge into the ever ready river which has an historical record of keeping souls in her belly carefully without mistakes. Indeed SHOLA's case is still a miracle that may never repeat itself until Christ Jesus comes again.
In this place where the third largest steel plant on Earth is located may be not presently but once held such record. Two things so matter as a fact of reality they are the parameters for measuring true success no matter how much you have achieved without at least one of these! Then you are considered a joker of all times.
I call them ' Rose-Stew' ; for an educated child especially one who performs excellently well is considered as a 'rose flower'. For he or she is so cherished that no matter the age! He or she has become a public figure for life then to seal up the matter if such a child is a product of ASCSS or ASPS for the formal is a secondary school while the latter a primary.
Also a commissioned military officer is regarded a 'stew' just as plate of rice is so attractive and celebrated when the touch of a red chicken stew is upon it so was for any family who had a child in the Armed Force but such respect knows no boundaries if your child is an officer like 'Abu Ali' or ' Officer Tolu'. Forward more having both earns you the title ' the Rose'.
Shola Giwa had won almost every medal from ASPS 3 . Now, since she became a student of ASCSS 1, she had registered her name at the school hall of fame to have won the most prestigious award four times straight which is called ' Trophy' so she was name branded ' the tropy daughter'.
'Trophy' was for the overall best at the end of each session, Shola won the junior category all through yet much expection in the air as the last term in the session just started. It was cocksure to say: ' Shola Giwa would pickup the trophy for the second time under the senior category.'
Just last term 'the graphics' had feature her as the big story with GYB presenting an award to her as overall best in the intra state competition of Nigeria Association of Engineers kogi state chapter.
But as at today! Shola had attempted suicide which failed yet leaving the whole state in wonder; what went wrong with the state icon?
who most had predicted would soon become the national envy as she had brought pride and joy to all.
Shola couldn't imagine how much shame she would have to face and the stain which stainless Giwas' would have to battle with for life because she had been put into a family way so this may Justify her action.
When asked later; what went wrong shola?
' Robert Greene! Robert Greene! Robert Greene!' shola screened.
Hmm. . . I think, this story I will tell, will explain Shola's response to the question. My name is Napoleon ( the story teller).
CHAPTER TWO
Senior Joy
Indeed I have never felt such kind of love before, she took me like a baby brother. I did recall without any mix-up how we meant. Just resumed as a JSS 1 student @ the almighty ASCSS 1 with a lot of things for me to move to my class which was at the extreme end of the school. While other new students like me had elderly siblings to support and give them direction but for me! I was the only tree which make up this forest so I carried my cross by myself all alone.
I had fallen off the walk way with my backing bag loaded with books, a locker & chair on my head then with my left hand I held a: cutless, hoe, and broom( these were necessary items to resume with). So she came saying:
' Hello! Dear. I'm sorry for what happened let me help you with your locker and chair.' this was after assisting me up. I will never forget that day because as we went on I heard other students calling that name: ' senior Joy! senior Joy! senior Joy. . .'
Her name is Joy the present assistant senior prefect 2 who was already in SSS 3 so we became friends or will I say she was my school mother and I, her school son. This relationship continued even after she graduated she did visit me at home and even at school to see how I was doing. Indeed she brought me to the state of flying colours even though we had one challenge! I couldn't cope with financial accounting in senior class.
While senior Joy was a lord of accounting who wanted to become an accountant yet I was just the opposite though I had a good accounting teacher ( Mr. Omomoh) still no show yet.
Now mummy will make my visit senior Joy's home friday till sundays so she could help me out.
She was the baby of her home & so was I to her, she was an elder sister I never had. By the way I was the only child of my family so I had access to almost everything in the house although she is strict yet accommodating.
On this fateful day I came across a squeeze paper in a bin inside her room so the content reads:
" Dear Sis,
Thanks a million times; Bobo & I really appreciate the opportunity to drink from this well ( God's help center conference), she served & serviced us both spirit & physical wise with her delicious meal (Labourers retreat).
I am humbly writing to apply for future & life partnership schooling with you ( like am serious oh) yet you know we all have to build capacities in: Academic & Careers, spiritual , physical, financial, & others so it's necessary we face important matters first .
STILL
I needed to declare my manifesto before election starts since I can't stop other candidates' contest (please note I did apply early . . .)
I am not doing this for fun but my sweetest & most learned friend (The Holy Spirit) knows the best for
me.
Lastly, Please! let Mummy know about this because no be backyard Rons I wan do oh, na legit one with Christ Jesus as our foundation.
My mummy, Bro. Chris , & Bobo are already aware so let your people know. Thanks "
I became more confused and troubled then she came into the room.
' what are you doing with my letter? "
Please! I just saw it in the bin so I picked it up but seriously I am confused. What election is the writer contesting for? What kind of scholarship is called: Life partnership?
"Napoleon these things are so complicated for you to understand just wait & grow but for now you must give financial accounting all your time. Ok!" Ok, senior Joy.
Soon she sat on her table to write while I as acting as if I did study my books. It was a letter she was writing and the words say:
"Dear N,
You must give all your heart to studies! Don't be troubled any longer by the letter you saw. It was from a teacher friend who is taking of marriage in 2013 while I still have till 2017 to graduate as an accountant.
Napoleon! Face you books, for I will be leaving for school next month so no room for marriage until I graduate. Ok dear?"
I was shocked that she knew I wss tailing on her then she walked out smiling without a word.
CHAPTER THREE
Aminant plus Yusuf
MY DEAR DIARY,
I write with pains for I am being drowned in the memories of past, oh! my diary. . .
I had gone for PUTME so on may way from tutorial class for my exams were 3days ahead then I headed for the famous Queen Aminant Hostel where my cousin (Aishat) was my host.
Before these words: 'Obi is a boy' a group of what I could describe as ' Goons' attacked me and would want to take advantage of me in all ramification. This was common in Nigeria Higher Institutions especially during the period of PUME or Freshers week on campus as matter of fact the only Nigerian University (UNN) did cancel PUME a certain year because of the abuse PUME candidates got the previous year especially as most females lost their glories as young ladies while others gave it out against their will.
It was this pool of truama I would have drank from but thanks to this Robinhood of a guy or will I say Oliver Green the popular 'green arrow'.
I have never in my entire life seen a man fought so swift , skilled yet merciful not even the popular Kunfu Masters: Bruce Lee, Jack Chen, and Jet Lee could be compared if they were all merged together as one. He soon disarmed the Goons yet let them run for their lives as they ran in pains.
I found out from the conversation we had as he did escort me down to my destination that he was a final year student from department of Chemistry in ABU. My name is Aminant thanks for your help." I am Yusuf, please don't walk home late next time and be mindful of the route you take." This was how our conversation ended.
Will I say that fate brought us? I ran into a young handsome man while coming from PUME hall by 3pm that day. Indeed I was looking out for Aishat who had become my tour guide for the last three days. Behold as I tried to apologise yet the voice sounds familiar. Ah! It was Yusuf with joy I embraced him only to remember that this was Zaria so I quickly refrain myself so I had to apologise twice for I had just committed two offenses at once.
He also came for Haruna his cousin who indeed was a seat ahead of my at the exam hall. Soon than expected Aishat joined the conversation for she Knew Yusuf who was two levels ahead of her in the same department. So beyond pleasantries! we did exchanged eleven digits yet at hostel Aishat wouldn't let me be as she told me of the great exploits Yusuf had made for that department and school in general.
I wasn't admitted that same year which was my second year of application yet our friendship grew stronger and was strengthen as Yusuf would encourage me not to back down on my academic dreams.
He did say Winny Mandala was famous for this saying " If you hit a woman! You hit a Nation and If you hit a Nation! you hit a rock." What makes a woman a Nation is beyond birth giving but quality education so dear Aminant fight a good fight of faith as Believers in Christ Jesus would say.
No matter how weak & broken I was this statements fired me back to life especially as a northerner; where females had little or on right to be educated so I did say to myself that: Aminant is very luck and fortunate.
Yusuf's love for protection & defense of human lives brought him into NDA while he was in 200level then I just became a student of ABU Zaria to study 'International Relations'. Our bound grew stonger as he would drive from Kaduna to Zaria to check on Haruna's welfare yet won't go back with out saying 'adieu' to me, this generated the famous formula (Aminant plus Yusuf equal tommorow) on campus among lecturers who knew him well and my mates.
BUT TODAY, OH! MY DAIRY!
It's like dwelling as cheff before the wind as I jab into the hands of time to download some of these events though it hurts yet because of tomorrow I lay them all on you my dear Dairy.
Who would say to me? :
' *My dearest sweet heart
* you can lean on my shoulders for I care!
* Be not afraid for your soldier is at watch.
*Don't worry, let me help you with the dishes while you focus on the meal
or
* what should I assist you with; to make the cooking faster & stress free!
*Is that the total expenses for the year! are you sure it's enough?'
Who would say to Ali?
' *Dad is proud of you my boy
* Watch over wife for me!
* I am right behind you son'
I did remember, you promised to be there still the end but today another chapter in my life just opened. Before now I had always lean on his last words he gave to me while I was going for my NYSC in Lagos when he had just become a commissioned officer and was moved to Enugu 82 division.
His words were: 'No matter what comes my way, you will never have a reval and I will always return because everyday is a good day to die!'
Now, only three days to Ali's second birthday! And Yusuf . . .
I recalled how he spoke those words in line with Col. Abu Ali's : "Nigerians I don't think I can make it but please don't forget my sacrifice" Yet the name 'Joy' rang all through Yusuf last words so I asked who is Joy?
But now, Yusuf was gone beyond my reach and I can't forget his looks as he died , they were that of a fallen hero who was sorry yet couldn't say a word not even 'adieu' his favorite of all times.
So I wonder, who is Joy?
my dear dairy! For Yusuf was among the victims who survived the Metelu Base attack which claimed the lives 88 Nigeria soldier and officers but couldn't hold on till tomorrow.
WHO IS JOY? OH MY DAIRY!
CHAPTER FOUR
Joy minus Aminant
ABU Zaria is notable for producing quality so Joy was half way to pick-up her degree in accounting when the town of Zaria was painted red as students were in shock with gory images beclouded their thinking.
The first female combatant pilot in Nigeria Air Force had just died after hours of struggle to sustain her @ the hospital in the NDA Headquarters where she had been knocked down by a reversing car inside NDA Headquarters.
Officer Tolu had visited Zaria campus at the beginning of the Semester with: #AfricanGirlsCanBecome #IfOnlySupported
which was a scholarship scheme to support girls on campus to pursue their tomorrow through academic power.
Joy was among those whose educational achievement so far added feather to her cap for her programme would be fully funded by Officer T's foundation. This was the reason she cry into sickness. It was just only a week to exams she did return back to herself as result of multiple shock .
In Enugu-Ezekiel, Enugu-Nigeria where a slot for session break job was available. This Joy would always jump at to enable her increase her earning to support her family's efforts so most breaks; she is far away from home.
As officer Yusuf strolled in with company of soldiers to take break from day patrol. It was Joy who did attend to them with her lively charisma she will make this officer and his boys to frequent the Ishe-obere class restaurant.
To crown it all , Yusuf is an alumni of ABU Zaria this was the spark that kept the conversation going. It develop to the point where even the blind could 'spot Isaac with Rebecca like king Abimelech did @ Gerar.'
CHAPTER FIVE
Joy & Jim
As weeping blew alarm @ the compound of Alhaji Kaduna Suleman where women showed how gifted mourners they were yet men of timber & caliber dashed into the compound at Kaduna for condolences though due to Islamic rites, Officer Yusuf corpse had been buried at Kafanchan is home town just yesterday still the whole television street in Kaduna was at stand still.
Now, a woman who could be best described as Mercy Johnson with figure 8 like shape just that this woman was not as tall compared to the Nollywood star. She held a child of about 4years who walked in slow motions like the woman did.
She said: "My name is Joy & this is Jim, my four years old son. Please accept our condolences, we pray for strength which Christ Jesus give to enable us all to recover quickly but we want to see Hajiya Aminant, wife of the diseased."
Immediately she stepped into the compound earlier, side talks arose yet while she spoke; the compound could be liken unto a grave yeard as her charismatic voice arrested all attention to herself indeeded she was gifted then she walked to a different direction as she was led and the side talks even became worse.
The reason for the side talks caught the attention of 'Nana Kaduna' whose mouth couldn't close any longer as a sign of how much shock passed through her system by sighting these visitors especially for the little child.
She had cleaned up her tears when a friend jabbed her saying:
"This is another Yusuf who had returned oh.
Kai! He walks like Yusuf @ age 5 especially during saleh celebration. Yusuf will walk in slow motions with this particular posture this child walks."
who are these visitors? was the new alarm in the compound of Alhaji Kaduna.
CHAPTER SIX
Two Plus Two
I can't forget the last hours of Yusuf as he was in pains untold while the tears from my eyes could make an ocean. His last words were:
'Please forgive me, I had kept this too long but I say today Aminant forgive me. While I was at Enugu, I lost focus as I came across Joy so I didn't keep the promise which I made before I left for Enugu and it has been a huntsman for my peace.' So! you are the Joy?
Welcome! all the same to the Yusuf's family but I just wanted you to know that Ali is two years today and Yusuf's family members had taken almost everything he owns yet the armed force is a quick sand to stand upon because those who stood on her had their hopes drowned. I await the religious rites to be concluded as my last respect for him indeed he was: a father, friend, helpmate, & husband like no other so if anything is left then we can share.
Ma, I am Joy; with all sincerity of heart I plead for your understanding and forgiveness. I was in two hundred level when I did read a book that altered my path for life. Before then I had read a book from the same author titled: '48 laws of power' this is the secret of most political and charismatic icons because these laws would give you edge to manipulate peoples' emotion & feelings to get whatever you want.
I wanted to be one of ABU Zaria's female demagogue of all time, I am a gifted orator plus a red-blooded being so the path for demagogue-ship was almost set but I needed to polish these natural skills into flames so I would read anything which will keep the fire burning towards this goal.
While I was in ASCSS 1, we would seat among peers to describe what tomorrow holds for us. As the assistant senior prefect 2, everyone pointed towards me to share my own view. I would say: "I want to be an accountant but a very influential one who would dominate the political sphere."
My choice for ABU Zaria was channeled by this desire because I saw ABU as the only platform where: the wealthy, the average, and the poor could meet for studies. If I could only play my cards well then victory is mine so for three years I would apply until I became a student.
I was from the average home so I did other odd jobs to increase the naira in my pocket. These became platforms for me to practically use my oratory skills for I had become a trophy student in 1st semester then started building links of connection which was how most odd jobs came my way.
At Enugu where I met officer Yusuf and his boys, I had just lost the opportunity of being fully sponsored by officer T's foundation for I was part of the first batch. Her death! I won't forget as a matter of remembrance Jim here also bears 'Tolu'.
I had just completed Robert Greene second book titled: ' Power of seduction'. I was hell to pay, for I had become possessed by what I call : 'coquette spirit' for I flirt with almost every man at first conversation except for those who carried Christ Jesus truly.
Most men I came across would keep coming to Ishe-obere class restaurant so I made a lot of sales, got a lot of motive attached gifts yet my pride as a woman was intact for I did what was needful but shun such useless men when they crossed their boundaries because I was never seductively dressed but I cried a seducing spirit which would give them no rest.
Officer Yusuf was also a victim but I had respect for his person because in Ajaokuta my birth place, two things were consider rosy-stew: Education and Armed Force especially commissioned Officers.
One thing that struck me about him was that he was clean( not only in appearance). He was a teetotaller, compassionate, and responsible human. In summary he went through the armed force but rejected the influences of the force over him.
Our friendship soar all heights especially since he was an alumni of the prestigious ABU Zaria, people did
say: 'Even the blind could spot Isaac & Rebecca as king Abimelech did @ Gerar. '
And things happen so fast as I woke up that morning to realise, I had lost my glory as a young woman. I became sick for I have just betrayed Christ Jesus truth & heavy investment over my life though both parties weeped for their falls but for me the world was just concluded.
I was hunted even down to last year, as hot & fire breathe my society gave me for I had become the most disgusting thing to have happened in my family. Then I wrote to my department for help to leave school and return later, thanks to Jesus Christ for the help of good leadership so my department understood me, sought the approval of the school then I was granted 3-5years to return back & complete my degree.
I have paid dearly with: pains, tears, time, resources, and relationships for this mistake. Thanks to Christ Jesus who gave me another chance by forgiving me!
My family accepted and reunited with me after a whole period of rejection. And the teacher whose proposal I shunned the month I got admitted into school is now my lovely wedded husband today.
It was both grace and mercy that spoke for me for I had rejected wisdom when Kachi( my friend) said:
"Hmm. . . Joy! Robert Greene books are like devil giving you counsel on matters about Christ Jesus. You know that it only leads to quick destruction? 'Kachi, you fear too much like a woman. I have a very strong heart nothing can break through and I will ask the Holy Spirit for his help.' Have you not heard Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche say that :What you hate you can't attract and what you attract you can't hate? 'Kachi I promise to be a true soldier who will die at her post. I love Jesus Christ like you do!.' "
Lastly ma, here is Napoleon a friend who had led us all the way from Ajaokuta to Kaduna for we had of the death just three days ago during news @ 9pm. He also was my junior at secondary school who didn't love accounting yet had a senior friend like me and the best accounting Teacher of all times ( Mr. Omomoh) yet accounting for him was like relocating to Mercury. He loves story telling , a writer, and a teacher by profession.
Napoleon is the secretary of 'Tolu's vision Foundation' this is to strengthen the vision officer Tolu had before she passed on #AfricanGirlsCanBecome #IfOnlySupported .
My husband (kachi) has helped me built it from the scratch since we got married last year, he sent his regards but his out on a trip for TED talk @ India we saw him off to the Abuja airport before coming down. Kachi as a friend had stood althrough with us as a matter of fact ; the father Jimi Tolu Kachi has ever known. Please ma, excuse me I will be back shortly.
Oh! Writer Napoleon, thank you for the kind gesture towards our family. so! do you have anything to say? You have been silent all along.
Thanks a million times ma. Thanks for your understanding and forgiveness. I am first a teacher then a writer who orally tells his written stories. I will write a story titled:' The Bleeding Rose' it's to thank you and many others who have lost their loved ones yet refuse to give up though the society still envy you as the owner of a rose flower (educated & married to an officer) yet almost nobody knows of this untold part of your story which is the actual thorns from the rose flower itself.
I want to invite you for our flag off ceremony for the foundation which will be at the NDA headquarters in honour unto officer Tolu (the first African female combatant pilot) it would be our honour to have you ma.
I am a teacher! Not feminist,
I am tacher! Not masculist, I am a teacher! Not a child activist.
I am a teacher who believes in the doctrines of Christ Jesus who would say: "
🤔let the little children come to me. 🤔 if you know you have not sinned be the first to cast a stone on her.'
🤔 Zachius come down today I will eat with you @ your house".
I believe everyone has rights! so such should be fought for yet their are boundaries. In summary : Husband love your wives while wives respect your husbands, children obey your parents yet parents don't provoke your children, servants obey your masters still masters don't abuse your servants ( Eph.5:22-25, 6:1-9).
This, I watch over as the gate keeper to make sure that the society doesn't interfere with these orders yet make sure no party rides on the other.
Ma, I want you to remember me in prayers that God gives me a wife like you who would easily forgive not because I want to offer her but so peace can rain but most especially God should give me a wife like 'senior Joy'. She is a woman with a big heart, accommodating, understanding, caring, and a good cook ( kai! She would also feature in 'The Bleeding Rose'). Please ma don't tell I said this oh!
Napoleon! Napoleon! Napoleon!
I had what you said this time about me. "Ah! but it the truth senior Joy now. . . The truth should be told always."
Mummy Aminant here is a birthday presence for our son (Ali).'
Haba Joy! Thank you for the joy & peace you brought to us especially me ' The Bleeding Rose' as writer Napoleon would paint me. May God almighty see you through in all you do especially as you return back to school. Thanks for the offer to work with the foundation & my regards to our husband ( Kachi).
Ok! Hajiya, it's time to go.
Napoleon & Jim! it's time to go. And Ali see you soon but for you Hajiya Aminant continue to be strong for us all.
NOTE TO ALL
To very single soldier either dead or alive, thank you for accepting your nations call for service.
BUT
There is another call to service we (citizens of Earth) must know. We are all soldiers! @ various positions in: politics, leadership, education, science, art, economy, farming, media, banking, & ministries (religion) yet one day we will all die at our posts.
WHAT NEXT?
Whether you believe it or yes! Judgement comes then where will you be?
Hell or heaven?
I invite you through (jh3:16-18) which is the base for all matter! accept and believe in Christ Jesus today and be assured of heaven when death comes. Thanks
©Njnvalue
#Nonfiction #ShortStory #TheBleedingRose #ChristJesus
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