February 28th was the saddest day of my life,when I was informed of the loss of my beloved nephew,Malik. I howled and keened in pain,despair,and utter disbelief. 36 years is too young to die. Not when he had so much to live for. A young wife,3 sons,parents,and siblings. Death dealt this family a lethal blow. Malik was always smiling. He had a great sense of humor and was a fantastic raconteur. He inherited his hilarious story telling gift from his mother. She,famously,would crack you up with stories,backed with perfect mimicry. It was a gift. Even his messages to me were always laced with humor;always humor.
But I will remember,as well as miss him most,because he was my "dancing partner". I love dancing,and he was my PERENIAL DANCING PARTNER. Even when he was a single man,he would choose to dance with me rather than with a young glamorous babe.
We used to bogey and rock the S--- out of any complicated dance steps. In my old age,I was so busy trying to compete and measure up with him,that my knees have now cracked up and today,I can barely walk let alone dance. There was a time that he called to say "hi,aunty mi",& I complained that "ah,Malik,you don destroy this my arthritic knees,oh".
He was a loving father,a FANTASTIC HUSBAND,& a great provider for his family. His passing is a loss that will be almost to great to be borne by his family.
The best gift from all of us who loved him ,is to stand by his wife and sons. Let us always remember them and give periodic assistance,in cash or kind. Let us look out for their well being,all the time. I believe that,even from beyond,Malik will be watching and smiling his infectious and charming smile in appreciation for remembering,and assisting his family. He will forever live in our memories through his sons.
Malik,farewell. May your soul rest in perfect peace. We love you so so much,but God loves you more. Who are we to question his ways.
I SHALL MISS YOU,BECAUSE YOU WERE SO DEARLY LOVED BY ME.