A Tribute (post will be edited from time to time)

This is a Tribute to a Great Man.  'The World' will never know about him, but to those who knew him he was a great man.  Gregarious, kind hearted, giving ..... a great man.

Poppa went to meet his Maker at the end of December 2014, with his family by his side.  I found out this past week and I am devastated.
This man, his given names I never knew, welcomed us into his home and his heart.  I can only remember all the times spent with this great man as such happy, learning and fulfilling times.  He went to great lengths to make sure that his 'guests', and later calling us his family, were suitably housed and fed and secure.  I loved this man and thought myself truly blessed to be in his company, sitting at his table and could never, never, comprehend the lengths he went to ensure we were happy.
He was always patient with me, teaching me about traditions, food ..... always having time to talk.
One year he found out it was my birthday and organised a party in his garden for me.  Tables were laid out and food brought out to us, a wide variety and, after prayers, conversation was good, there was much laughter and in depth discussions.  Then the chairs and tables were set back and a drumming group were led in.  These men played all sorts and shapes of drums, the talking drum included.  They were dressed in national costumes and the drums were decorated accordingly.  How we danced in the shade of the orange trees to beating of the drums!!!  One of the best birthdays and something that is absolutely priceless.  But that is how Poppa was.

Another year we went back to his house and there was a beautiful cow sitting in his garden chomping on the hay.  It sat there so placid while the children and adults came up and patted it, ran round it, shouting and calling ...... it just carried on chomping.   'What do you call her Poppa?' I asked.  'Cow' came the reply!!!  I explained how, in England, we named our cows - Daisy, buttercup etc.  He was amazed, could not understand why.  The next day there was a feast at the Church and yes! you guessed it! Beef featured on the menu!

Such wonderful memories this great man gave me ..... such love .... he is sorely missed here in this cold place called England.

My thoughts and prayers are for his lovely wife, handsome sons and their wives and much loved grandchildren.  I pray that God will strengthen and comfort you all at this sad time.