TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS

We had the privilege of printing the T-shirts and brochure for the Service of Songs held in honour of Ifunanya Nwangene, a prolific young soloist whose life was cut short following an unfortunate snake-bite incident.

Since her passing, the internet has been abuzz. In my opinion, this is not merely because of the tragic incident itself, but because Ifunanya lived a phenomenal life, however short it may seem.

Many people have passed following snake bites without drawing the attention of their communities, let alone the media. Others have lived such unimpactful lives that the world silently wished they had come and gone unnoticed. But Ifunanya’s life was different. Her presence mattered. Her voice counted. Her impact lingered.

The Bible says in Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

No one knows when life will end, but Ifunanya’s passing, despite her young age, reminded me of two profound truths:

1. LIVE PURPOSEFULLY

If the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse becomes inevitable. If you have found your purpose, congratulations. If you have not, keep reflecting on why you exist. In time, clarity will come.

2. SHARE YOUR GIFT

For God’s sake, there is no need to live in obscurity.

If you are a singer, sing until lives are touched by your sound.

If you are a teacher, teach with excellence.

If you are a cleaner, clean so well that people see there are levels to even the simplest tasks.

To conclude, I am reminded of a book by Robin Sharma, Who Will Cry When You Die?.

When you leave this world, will it be only your immediate family who mourns, or will the world say, “Indeed, we witnessed something special”?

I will leave you with one word often shared by Dike Chukwumerije: DIE EMPTY.

Rest in peace, Ifunanya.

I am grateful I shared a stage with you, and grateful that Jewel Publishers was given the honour of producing the T-shirts and brochure in your memory.

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