Read Peculiar Okafor’s Stirring Ode to her Best Friend, Amarachi on Her Birthday Today

‘The first time I heard that term ‘boy magnet’, it was used to describe a girl who seemed to attract boys like honey to bees’; there is no other  person who brings this saying to life than my bestie Amarachi (Mama like her close friends and family call her.)

We met in SS1 and have been inseparable since then. In school, she was the most sought after by all the guys but Mama wasn’t just another fair, beautiful girl. She had a sweet spirit and loved to celebrate everyone around her. She would celebrate every achievement and stride no matter how insignificant you thought it was. Your success was her success.

Another thing about her is the unique ability to remember the little details; she has never forgotten any of my birthdays ( The last birthday I remembered was in SS3), in school, she would always buy me a wafer because she knew they were my favorites. As we have grown older, you would see Mama change a channel or a subject because she remembers someone doesn’t like it.

Mama also possesses huge amount of tact;  you know that saying that Nigerian woman love to give sanctimonious advice? Mama doesn’t have that problem at all. She is skilled in picking the right place, time and tone to offer advice.

Mama is someone who is always there for you. When I lost my dad, she was in my house early the next day, even though we hadn’t seen in a while. She also encourages me to hone whatever skill I have; she told me about writing for Bella.

Mama is focused without being obnoxious about it; she parties, enjoys life and still sticks to her plans. She also believes in letting life happen.

Mama doesn’t seek attention or praise, neither is she is afraid of criticism. She is not one of those people so used to being complimented that they are uncomfortable if they aren’t noticed. Mama is comfortable in her own skin and doesn’t try to make people like her- she just is. She has perfected the art of serenity and harmony with herself and everything around her.

She is a good person, friend and confidante but she is not one of those good people who rub their niceness in your face. No, she is good for goodness sake, a friend for friendship sake and one who gives for giving sake. And because of this, because she loves herself and others without expecting anything in return, except the fulfillment of knowing she has done the right thing, she is not just a boy magnet but a people magnet as well.

So today, 4th of May 2015, I celebrate my bestie of life. Amarachi Uche Roseline Alisiobi – AURA as your initials form, your aura is a good one.

You are one strong woman and it’s an honor to be your friend. I’m ecstatic you were born.