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.
Going Away to Boarding School 
