My dear Labake has gone home to be with her Lord. True, we saw 'it' coming but kept hoping that a miracle would happen. Indeed a miracle did happen but just a different kind from what we mere mortals, in our limited minds and understanding, had hoped for. The Lord has given Labake a new body and true rest on all sides. In that truth I rejoice because one thing I can confidently boast of is the fact that Labake was very much prepared to meet with her Savior when her time came. So much sentiments run deep because Labake was not just a friend. She was family. She became friends to my neighbours and friends. She became friends to family (both nuclear and extended). Our children grew up together, constantly in and out of each other's houses. We pretty much parented together, sharing notes and advices as regards the complexity of raising children. It is no wonder that when all but one of my children got married, Labake took it upon herself to wrap the gifts going out during the introduction and engagement ceremonies. She did it so well that if you were not told, you would have imagined that a lot of money went into the service rendered. However, as was common with Labake, that was just one of her many several selfless services to her brothers and sisters in the Church and humanity as a whole. Services she rendered with zero charges. Labake also gave herself to her family. The classic example of the Proverbs 31 woman who despite a busy and highly successful career life, was very much invested in what happened at the home front. She gave her best and I am glad she got to see marriages and grandchildren before passing into glory. Finally, Labake's faith in and love for God was remarkable. She submitted to the will of God and even in pain, spoke of the goodness of the Lord. She did not allow circumstances to change her love song to her Lord. On her sick bed, she kept counting her blessings and interestingly turned around the tables as she encouraged us with her relentless faith in the Lord. Till the end, she was grateful to God, giving us a lesson on what true Christianity is really all about. As Labake did, rather than dwelling on what we cannot change, we must submit to the sovereignty of God, knowing that He loves her in greater measures than we can comprehend and in His wisdom, has done that which is best for her. So with that I say, 'Thank you Labake for the sweet years of friendship you extended not just to me but my entire family. You have run your race well and now, you must rest. So, keep resting in the bosom of our Savior. You deserve every bit of the pleasure heaven has prepared for! Ayinke Makanjuola