There are folks who cannot conceive of my ever having been depressed. And it's not because they're blind or uncaring; they've simply only seen my eternally sunny optimistic side. Or should I say my carefully maintained facade?

Back in the 70s, International School, Ibadan (popularly known as ISI) put on a production of the eponymously named 'Jonah-Man Jazz'*. A popular 60s dramatic cantata, it was Sunday school, but not as I knew it; and I absolutely loved it!

When it comes to making career choices, it's not unusual for sons to be influenced by their fathers' choice of profession. There are numerous examples of families with two, three, even four generations of doctors, soldiers, businessmen, and so on.

For some it is an expectation, fulfilling a family tradition; for others a wishful door ajar - aiming to fan the flames and capture the burning desire of an innate disposition.

A year

That shocked and ravaged us.

Debilitated and devastated

Tested our resolve

And often found us wanting.

The year of the unknown quantity

And dangerous lessons.

The year of life

Hanging by a string.

So I'm sitting in the doctor's office, where she's perusing the results of a routine blood test a little too closely for my liking. Covid-19 has obviously thrown out the 10 minute rule (which, quite honestly, I always ignored, but now want back!)

I'm about to ask if there's a problem when she says, "I think you need to make some changes to your diet."

"What sort of changes?" I ask warily.

She mutters something about Omega fatty acids, and I perk up.

"Oh, I love anchovies!"

To which she queries, "What about flaxseeds and walnuts?"

👁 

Christmas is undeniably special, whatever you believe in. If anything at all. A palpable sense of excitement competes with a breathless air of anticipation. Some await the gift of family and friends; some simply gifts, and others the gift of life. Something for everyone.