Tribute to my brother Gbenga Arogunjo!

I picked up the call from my dad, hoping he will tell me that he feels better now, as he has been sick, for a few days, but with a shaky voice he said 'They just called me to say Gbenga have an attack and i have to come home immediately' and with assurance I told him to calm down, that he will be alright. I went to work like every other day monitoring dad's journey till I was sure he was home and fine with his families, then I got a call from my little sis at noon asking me where I was and immediately I knew that something was wrong. Dreadfully wrong. No, I thought. It can’t be. My half brother was far too young to be dead and he seem quite active. I made a call to dad and he confirmed my worst fears. Death leaves a heartache which is healed by no one; love leaves a memory which no one can steal. I got home later in the day and was full of the worst regrets of my life with the dreadful thought of wishing I can turn back the hand of time and wished I hadn't procrastinated having a meeting with you. Then I broke down crying, as the memories flood in. When words are emptier, tears are most quick Our relationship: We used to be very close when I was growing up and I never saw you as a step brother, but as my big bro, who loved me so much and I loved right back. I remember when we used to come home for Christmas and you will always be ready for me; taking me out and buying me stuffs. I was always the one to judge the nice lady friends and I remember most especially your ex (aunt Eunice) used to buy me stuffs, so she can get a pass mark with you. You will allow me in your room and I will feel so secure and relaxed. How you used to buy me disco lights instead of banger and knockout, as I was so scared of them. so much lovely memories. Something happened along the line and things changed, the segregation set in. We allowed the society and extended family issue separate us, outlining whose child who is and reality set in that we are only siblings by father and surname. It got worse and we never saw for years. We dreaded coming home for Christmas and we never got in touch. I travelled out of the country and I didn't have no information about you or my other brothers and sister. I kept telling dad to bring us all together, so we can get over our past and move on, but we both kept postponing. It was my biggest joy when you turned up for my wedding, I told dad it was definitely a dream come true. I had the intention of talking to you after the traditional wedding, but you had to leave early, so we couldn't have the chat. I spoke to you on the phone few months back and you promised to check up on me when next you visit UK, but that day never came, till you were snatched by the cold hand of death. Now I really wish we that are left behind can do the needful, by forgetting the past and stop acting based on the mistakes of our parents and live as the family that we are, forgive each other, move over our past and live in harmony as a family. I never imagine your death and never thought I could feel it like this, but then its true that people die but real love is forever in the hearts. Sleep softly bro, rest in peace. This is not an ending, but this is actually the beginning of your new life. This is not death, but this is your birth into eternity. You will always be in our thoughts and hearts and we will always long for the time that we would meet again. Goodbye Olugbenga Arogunjo......... Your little sis, Oyeyemi!