Tribute from Children

We write this letter with a pen flowing so well,
Yet tears and laughter make the words hard to spell.
This is the hardest thing we’ve ever had to write,
A mix of love and grief—day and night.

We’ve been running from this moment, scared to face,
The pain of remembering your last embrace.
Now your absence cuts like a knife in the dark,
Leaving only echoes where once was your spark.

Yeah, we know our mother is holding us tight,
But losing you, Dad? It just doesn’t feel right.
Tighter than rubber bands, our bond wouldn’t break,
Drier than Harmattan winds, our hearts still ache.

Life threw us a curveball, caught us in a jam,
Three weeks before—then silence. Damn.
Mummy broke the news, and the world lost its sound,
Left us as kings in denial, our crowns unbound.

You were the funniest soul we ever knew,
Your jokes and your pranks? Pure comedy gold—it’s true!
The way you’d crack us up with that mischievous grin,
No one could match you—you always won.

Now we scroll through old photos, watch videos with glee,
Hearing your laugh like you’re right here with me.
That booming chuckle, the twinkle in your eye,
Proof that joy never truly dies.

You inspired the boy that I used to be,
Promised you I’d be a lawyer—just wait and see.
Now they ask, "Are you alright?"—they know the deal,
You were my ride or die, my heart’s true seal.

I’d never lie to my idol, you taught me too well,
You were my compass through heaven and hell.
Who knew six feet would hold where my hero lies?
Now I talk to the wind, hoping you’ll reply.

We’ll miss our long talks—politics, life’s crazy ride,
The ‘80s and ‘90s, with you as our guide.
Your bond with Grandpa, so solid, so true,
Became the blueprint for all we’d pursue.

I tell my friends—you’re the best life could give,
A father, a friend, the reason I live.
Not the "typical Ghanaian dad," strict or severe,
But patient and playful, always near.

We never saw you angry, never felt your hand,
Only love and laughter—that was your brand.
Now who’ll crack dumb jokes when the room’s too tense?
Or roast us so hard it made no sense?

Who’ll pick me up when my plane lands late?
Or spoil me at Costco (you’d never wait)?
Who’ll tease Mummy till she rolls her eyes,
Then flash that smile that lit our lives?

Your humor lives on in the memories we keep,
In every old video where you’re laughing deep.
Though you’re not here, your spirit’s alive,
In every dumb joke that helps us survive.

We love you, we miss you, our king, our light,
Your legacy’s joy in the darkest night.
Rest well, dear Dad, in heaven’s embrace,
Save us a seat at the comedy stage.

Forever Your Biggest Fans,
[Joseph] & [Mirabel]