I've written articles, essays, blog posts, books but when it comes to the topic of family. I get that feeling similar to writers block. So many memories, emotions, expressions, love, hate, good and bad times alike and stories to tell. It all merges at once I almost don't know where to begin.
Well...no one is in a better position to tell my family story than myself so I'd get started...
I live with my family in Lagos, Nigeria. My family has got five members, I inclusive. My father, mother, elder brother and younger sister are the roots of my existence and I love them very much.
Meet the Ologunja's
My Father
(Sadly I've got no pics of my Dad on this device :(. )
My father is the cornerstone of the family, firm and upright. He had always treated us like adults right from our tender age. What never gets old is how he would sit us down and tell us stories of his childhood, his parents, his siblings and how growing up in a polygamous family greatly impacted him. He didn't quite get the best childhood experience and does his best to make sure we don't have to tell the same stories. He is a mentor to us and occupies a very important place in out hearts.
My mother
Although she's very caring and kind, she's quick to anger and very overprotective. Mothers instinct right? She doesn't associate much and this rubbed off on us. She holds the family together and prioritizes our wants over her needs sometimes. I couldn't wish for a better mom.
I remember the day I told her I liked music and would love to play a saxophone someday. She looked at me and said "really". I playfully replied "yeah".
Without an hint, she took it upon herself and got me a saxophone within two weeks. I was utterly speechless, I would forever cherish that moment. I strongly believe we're greatly blessed to have such supportive and caring parents.
My elder brother (buddy)
Meet Kolawole
You'd never believe we weren't twins if you saw us together. Well...I can't actually spot the great resemblance between us but everyone else seems to. He never has to introduce me to anyone, they seem to always figure it out.
I've got the greatest bond with him. We spent our childhood together, just us...no friends. We barely socialized with others.
I remember our former neighborhood. We stayed about four years there and never took it upon ourselves to make a single friend. Never saw a reason to.
We never get emotionally attached to anyone or anything but the one time this theory didn't come to play was when he was to leave for college. I skipped school that week, followed him to his college and spent about three days with him. I cried on the day I was to leave him, I was greatly depressed. It just seemed to have happened so soon.
My younger sister
Meet teniola
The only female child, also happens to be the last child. Definitely pampered, too smart for her age, too young for her class. A lazy genius as I like to call her. She's definitely a character, funny, smart, very annoying but still she could make your day. There's a seven year difference in ages between us but she makes it look like three. She definitely gets all she wants...well, most of it. Am I jealous? Yes :) I used to be. I guess some of us can relate to the agony of having the last child privileges you once enjoyed get transferred.
Family is one of the most important...I'd rephrase that "it's the most important thing in our lives"
Taking time everyday to appreciate your loved ones for all they do, for just being there is golden.
... writing this, I realized it's even harder to summarize the memories and respective personalities of my family members. I might not be the best writer but hopefully this all made sense...
doppley
stay safe