The late Dr Myles Munroe did not envisage his early passage when he wrote that the greatest tragedy in life is not death but a life without purpose. He died at age 60.

Dear brother, we wanted you to live but your death at 63 could not have been a tragedy because it was a life lived on purpose. You were the freest human being because you lived life on your own terms. Your impactful life was long enough.

I probably did not realise how much you meant to me until reality stared me in the face, seeing your motionless body, telling me I will never get to see you again or even disagree with you like we got to do sometimes on the premise of mutual love and fondness.

I got a call three days ago from a member of a WhatsApp group formed in your honour when the news of your passage broke. The group consists of thirty three (33) beneficiaries of your benevolence, whom you helped secure civil service job to enable them eke a living when you had the opportunity. That, in itself, is a homily, brother.

I took my time to read every word in all the eulogies that have been pouring in since your passage. You got me thinking – how much time does one need to make an impact in the lives of others? Your six decades plus three was purposefully spent. Your good life was long enough.

It still hurts. It will continue to hurt for a long, long time. I cry when no one is watching but how else could I have made you to live when I’m not the owner of life? In life, you were a legend. Even in death, you are legendary. Yes, you are. Your fond memories remain in the present forever.

I celebrate you, brother. I owe you one.

©️Akin Oluwadare Jnr.
03 July 2025