Tell your story #25: Everything good will come!

_{Cover photo/@ruthjoe}

"I heard you pushed her."
"I heard you called her an old rag."
"She deserves to be treated with kindness, you know"
"Doesn't matter if she is in rags or gold."

These were the words I said to some kids who mocked at a lady for wearing "ugly clothes."

For context, the lady was the school's cleaner. Her favourite wear was a long flowing faded green ankara gown. You could easily spot her from a distance once you see an "I" toddling down the corridor with a mop and pail.

I never missed seeing her walk down to the lavatory for once, except on days I joined the school's devotion late. That only happens when I am sick. And I get sick once in every blue moon.

Stories flew that she was a widow with seven children. So it made sense when I saw her "slave herself" just to put food on her children's table.

I would say she was the "goodest" woman alive. She would ignore rude comments from her employer and fellow staff. Her face wore the hugest smile even when the kids at school made fun of her.

I did not understand why she would put up with the "bull sheets" until 10 years later.

_{Rolling eyes/Canva}

"Ukpono beby!"
That was the name she often called me. So when I heard it yesterday, my neck stretched left and right to search for her. My eyes did a quick 360 scan around the mall.

Ladies, the woman who was standing about three steps away from me was someone I didn't know. She looked 16ish but her eyes were filled with wisdom.

Then it clicked. I know who she is!

The old uncomely cleaner lady was now a beauté. Her pale blue maxi gown had the most aesthetic prints I have ever seen.

We hugged tightly until her "oyibo" grandson with an American accent tugged at her to come get him some biscuits.

The 2-year-old did not deeply understand the significance of that silent long hug.

I still do not know the full background story of how she got transformed from a poor overworked but underpaid cleaner to someone who now flies Ibom Air at will. But her story taught me the value of having a positive approach to life.

It doesn't matter if people mock at you or throw you stones. Smile. Try not to curse at them. Be happy and continue grinding.

Everything good will come.

I'd like to invite @chiomi, @mercybliss, @khayjhay and @abisolami to join this week's contest by @ruthjoe.

_{Written by @ukpono on Thursday, 5 December 2024}