Burning Candle for mama.

I am lighting this candle in honour of my MUM.

Those we love go away only physically but the beautiful memories walk besides us and inside us every day.
Unheard, unseen, but very near.
Still loved, still missed and very dear.

I miss the touch of her dear hands, so gentle and kind.
I miss her smile, her laughter, her wise, kind and soothing words.

When I was rejected, mama held me securely in her arms - close to her bosom and sometimes strapped me securely on to her back.
I know she wanted me to be happy than be filled with tears of sadness and sorrow -
Mama taught me love, kindness, honesty ....
Mama taught me gratitude and said it was bad manners to grumble.

So I try my best to honour her memory -
Unheard, unseen but very near.
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
 (From me Anne Olympia Naliaka Wafula-Strike. In memory of my beloved, mother,Ruth Rosoline Nekesa Wafula)

POLIO in NOVEMBER.

The poet, T.S.Eliot, wrote; 'April is the cruelest month....' For me the cruelest month is NOVEMBER because it was the month that I was struck down by POLIO. Many years ago in a small village in Western Kenya,at two and a half years old, I got very ill. The villagers who did not have any knowledge on disability believed I was cursed and they threatened to kill me. My parents were forced  to flee and that's how we ended up living in Nairobi. It is also where we finally learned that I had POLIO.

Disability does not come with a manual .... One just has to get on with life.Also, it is not the disability that defines you, it is how you deal with the challenges the disability presents you with.I don't see myself as disabled,rather I am DIFFERENTLY ABLE !!! I am so grateful to my parents,my late mama Ruth and my papa George,who is my hero,for always being there for me.My brothers and sisters,and friends in general -Thank you !!!