Tribute to My Beloved Sister, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, a Guiding Light Extinguished Too Soon…
By Dr. Elisha Attai
Eka nnyin,
In the quiet moments that have followed your departure, dear sister, I find myself grappling with a profound sense of loss that words can scarcely capture. You were more than just my sister; you were my mentor, confidante, and unwavering support system. Though destined not to last beyond now, our connection was forged through respect, admiration, and shared values – a bond as strong as any family tie. Your absence has left an indelible void in our lives, yet the legacy of your love, wisdom, and compassion continues to illuminate our paths.
To call you sister was never a mere formality, but a testament to the depth of respect and affection you commanded. In our culture, where age is revered and wisdom is treasured, you stood as a beacon of both. Your presence in my life, my family and the lives of countless others in our community was a gift we perhaps took for granted, never imagining a day when your wisdom and warmth would no longer grace our gatherings.
From the first day, your aura of dignity and compassion was palpable. You carried yourself with a grace that spoke of your upbringing and your commitment to our shared values. In you, I saw the embodiment of our cultural ideals – respect for elders, nurturing of the young, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community.
Your journey through life was one of constant growth and service. Rising from humble beginnings, you never forgot your roots. Instead, you used your success as a platform to elevate others. In the corridors of power where you walked with ease, you never failed to advocate for those whose voices often went unheard. Your ability to navigate the complex worlds of tradition and modernity with equal finesse was nothing short of remarkable.
As a leader in our community, you were unparalleled. Your approach to problem-solving was a masterclass in diplomacy and wisdom. I recall countless times when tensions in our community threatened to boil over and with just a few well-chosen words and that signature warm smile of yours, you would diffuse the situation. You had a gift for making everyone feel heard and valued, a quality that endeared you to both young and old.
Your unwavering commitment to education stood as a testament to your visionary spirit. “Knowledge,” you would often remind us, “is not just the key that unlocks doors, but the light that illuminates our path forward.” These were not mere words to you; they were the very foundation upon which you built a legacy of empowerment and enlightenment. The scholarship fund you established, born from your tireless fundraising and personal sacrifices, has become a beacon of hope for our community. It has not only sent dozens of our brightest young minds to universities across the nation and beyond but has also kindled a fire of ambition in the hearts of countless others. Each student who embarks on their educational journey through your generosity carries with them not just the promise of individual growth, but the potential to uplift entire families and communities.
In matters of development, your vision was both progressive and deeply rooted in our values. You understood that true progress does not mean abandoning our traditions, but rather finding ways to blend the old with the new. The community center you helped establish stands as a testament to this philosophy – a modern building that serves as a hub for both traditional ceremonies and contemporary learning.
Your role in advancing women’s rights in our society cannot be overstated. In a world where women often struggle to have their voices heard, you not only spoke up but ensured that others could do the same. The women’s cooperative you founded has become a model of economic empowerment, allowing mothers and sisters to support their families while preserving our cultural crafts. You showed us that empowering women does not weaken our traditions – it strengthens them.
On a personal note, your impact on my life has been profound. When I was a young man, unsure of my path and grappling with the expectations placed upon me, it was your guidance that helped me find my way. You listened without judgment, advised without condescension, and supported without seeking credit. The hours we spent in conversation, with you sharing your experiences and insights, shaped my worldview and my approach to life’s challenges.
Your home was always open, a place where anyone could find a warm meal, a sympathetic ear, or sage advice. The aroma of your famous AFANG SOUP would draw people from far and wide, but it was your warmth and wisdom that kept them coming back. In your presence, everyone felt like family. You had a gift for making the most downtrodden feel valued and the most successful remain humble.
Even in your final days, as illness took its toll, your spirit remained undiminished. You faced your mortality with the same grace and strength with which you had lived your life. Your concerns were not for yourself, but for the projects you had yet to complete, the lives you had yet to touch. It was a poignant reminder of your selflessness, a quality that defined you throughout your life.
As we bid you farewell, dear sister, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we had with you. Your physical presence may be gone, but your spirit lives on in the lives you touched, the institutions you built, and the values you instilled in us. We promise to honour your memory by continuing your work, by upholding the principles you held dear and by striving to be the kind of leaders and community members you showed us we could be.
In our language, we have many proverbs about the impact of a great person, but perhaps the most fitting is this: “The large tree has fallen, but its seeds are scattered far and wide.” You, our beloved sister, were that great tree – providing shade, shelter and sustenance to all who gathered beneath your branches. And though you are no longer with us, the seeds of your wisdom, your compassion, and your indomitable spirit have been planted in the hearts of all who knew you.
Rest well, our esteemed sister. Your life was a gift to us all and your legacy will continue to shape our community for generations to come. We will miss your laughter, your counsel and your unwavering faith in the goodness of humanity. But we find solace in knowing that the values you lived by and the love you shared will continue to guide us.
May your God and your ancestors welcome you with open arms and your spirit watch over us as we strive to live up to your example. Farewell, our sister, our mentor, our guiding star. Until we meet again in the great beyond, we will keep your memory alive in our hearts and in our deeds.
Rest in peace, Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom!
With deepest respect and eternal gratitude,
Your brother and the entire community you so lovingly served.
African Women in Leadership Organisation @highlight
