BOARDING SCHOOL

Going Away to Boarding School  My entrance examination into secondary school was successful. Aunty Agatha was very happy. While waiting to go into boarding school, she made sure I would go with her to see how she managed her business. Sometimes we went to market together and other times we waited to receive her goods that were supplied to her.

 On the day before I left for boarding school, Aunty Agatha called me to her room. She placed her hand under her pillow and brought out a lovely wristwatch and gave it to me. She said she prayed that her mother and my mother would be there for me to guide me as always and that I must hold on to my faith in God. I hugged her in gratitude.

 I asked her if I could address her as mother. She laughed and said I could, if it made me hap­py. I told her it was what I had always wanted and I dreamt of the day I could have the cour­age to ask her if she would allow me address her as mother. She laughed with tears pouring down her cheeks and gave me a hug. I then made another request, which was if I could share her bed that night since I

would be going away to boarding for the next three months. She asked me to join her with open arms. I slept with my head placed on her shoulder while thanking God, and whispering to my mother in heaven a ‘thank you’ for bringing someone to me who was so kind and who treated me like her child. I slept with me arms around Aunty Agatha’s neck, my new mother.

 Early next morning, my things were packed already for my jour­ney to school. The driver was instructed to be ready at 8.00am. Aunty Agatha made sure I did not forget anything.  Betty, to whom I became like a little sister was a bit sad but happy for me that I was going to prepare well in school for my future.  I was grateful that Aunty Agatha and the driv­er accompanied me to school. My new mother wanted to ensure that I settled in well. Before re­turning home, she arranged with the matron and one of the teachers to be my guardian. We were all happy I was in good hands.