TANGLED S2 EP4

Season 2, Episode 4.

"Brother, what's going on here?" My mom asked again but this time we could see someone sitting on the floor at the main church entrance.

"I don't know ma, I just entered too" the brother answered.

"Iya Agbebi, why is she on the floor?" My father asked as he saw her face. 

The woman was sitting on the floor looking unkempt and tattered. 

The moment she sighted my father, she started talking and shouting but what left everyone confused was the fact that she has been sitting on the floor, crying and shouting not saying anything until my father got in and she set eyes on him. They were all surprised and we were confused as well.

I was fondly called my mother's handbag because everywhere and anywhere you see my mother, you will always see me there. Well unless when she's in the toilet or having her bath. I remembered she told me how I do cry after her when she's going to have her bath, then I was much younger. I would keep crying until she takes me with her to the bathroom even when she has already bathed me.

I got used to it and it became so bad that I won't allow her do anything while I'm awake without having me with her. She told me how she beats me and left me to cry while she takes her bath or do whatever she wants to do before attending to me. It was after much beatings I stopped. But I guess I didn't completely stop. I just got wiser and grant her permission to do some things without disturbing her.

Even in church, you can hardly find me alone unless I am in children's church while she's at the adult session.

It was a vigil. There was no children's session separately for the vigil so I had the opportunity to stay with mom that night and I got to witness this drama.

Let me tell you a little about who Iya Agbebi is. 

Iya Agbebi is the women leader in church and she always leads a Friday prayer team during the day for all waiting mothers, pregnant women and infants mothers.

The 'Agbebi' is the act of midwifery. Definitely, all the women who belong to the categories of child bearing must go through Iya Agbebi.

The surprise now was what might have happened to her that rendered her useless, looking all tattered and helpless at the same time. The Iya Agbebi we knew was a smart woman, a cheerful  mother to all. 

My family, my father to be precised was who she saw that made her started talking.

"I will confess. I will tell you everything" she was crying and shouting. The more she shouts, the more attention is being drawn to her. Maybe if she wasn't shouting, many people wouldn't have known something was going on in the compound because the church was very big.

"Right from start, I have been working in the church while I'm an agent in the 'Fitina group' and my name is Safina" she started talking and breathing heavily. 

Immediately we heard that we knew what it was but it was unbelievable. Iya Agbebi! What a life!

"We have always operated in the church and we always renew our strength with blood. That was why I volunteered to join the group of midwifery and first aid departments in the church" she continued. Everyone was murmuring with amusement and shock all written on their faces.

Pastor Alfred was already called upon to come and witness what was going on. He could relate and my parents too could easily relate with what she was saying.

"I want to apologize to Kate your wife because all the 7 miscarriages she had, we were incharge. Her case got us angrier because she was a covenant child which her mother came to seek from us" my father became angry the more he listens to what the old woman was saying. She continued anyways.

"The group and I has rendered many women childless even barren because we use their wombs for sacrifice. We've planted disunity in different careless families, knowing fully well that the family that prays together stays together. The moment we light up the quarrel gas, they will say hurtful words to themselves, leaving them to swim in the pool of unforgiveness and then we keep wrecking their relationship" she stopped crying and bowed her head.

"We have nailed some people's pregnancy to the palm tree and we have tied some people's destiny to the wall. Anyone who abuse us or doesn't give us the regard that we desire, we don't hesitate to handle them our own way. The last person that disrespected me was Mr Olatade's wife and we took her life at the point of labour" she kept nodding her head in affirmation to all she's saying maybe incase there are doubtful persons there.

"A lot had gone wrong and we have quenched the fire burning in different churches and homes. We have done so much harm than good, once a church gets too hot for us, we leave but we found so many lukewarm Christians in this church and that was why we made it our abode"

"The last encounter we had was what killed the last standing 2 founding member of the group, Jimakia and Katurina. I'm the only one left and for the past few days, I have been feeling pains all over my body as I am being flogged by an invisible hand" she rounded off.

Soon she began to vomit blood.

People started raining insults on her. Some were speaking in their local languages and I couldn't understand what they were saying. Thank God we were inside the church and not on the streets people would've carried stones, sands and maybe woods, whatever they find to stone her to death. 

"Let's burn her alive, very evil woman" someone shouted from the crowd but the pastor asked them to calm down because there may be more for her to say and also so we don't end up being murderers in the sight of God. 

She kept vomiting blood. It was gushing. Soon she started gasping, trying to catch her breath. Moment later, she passed on.

The vigil that night was totally different. Mixed reactions and feelings everywhere. Songs of Victory as well as fear of the unknown filled everyone's lips but through it all, the songs of praises was more that night.

The vigil was over and everyone went back to their houses.

Christmas finally came and we couldn't celebrate it as usual at our family's house but God gave us testimonies to end the year.

It was New Year's eve and there was news for my family.

What's the news?

Find out in the next episode.

TANGLED S2 EP3

Season 2, Episode 3

The knock on the door was persistent, leaving us all to wonder who it could be.

"Who is that oo? My mother asked but she felt too lazy to go and open the door. My uncle decided to help with the door.

"Good day, peace be unto this house" Pastor Alfred said.

I ran towards the door to give him a hug.

"Daddy Pastor" I screamed with all excitement. The children in church are used to calling the pastor "daddy pastor" 

Pastor Alfred was the Regional Pastor of our parish, he was one of the caring people we have ever met. He loves children and he always takes interest in the affairs of the teenagers and young people too.

He comes to church every Sunday with pack of sweets, chewing gums, biscuits and fruits while his wife do come to church with extra food to give those that may likely wait for the second service.

"How are you all doing?" The pastor asked as we offered him a seat. He could see how everyone in the room was looking tired and fagged out.

"We thank God, it hasn't been a smooth ride but through it all, God remains faithful" my dad replied as my mom interrupted. 

"What should we offer you sir?" My mother asked. 

"I am fine actually, I have been at the door knocking for a while now but it was as if there was an intense fight going on in the house" the pastor said.

My uncle already left for the living room since the pastor entered after greeting him. His wife also followed him. So, we (my dad, mom and I) were left with the pastor alone. 

"Yes sir, it was a battle and God saw us through by breaking the covenant" my dad responded.

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

"Praise be to God who has given us the Victory. My message to those who are waiting on God for the fruit of the womb or anything at all is that, God may come late but he is always on time" my mother said.

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" My father added.

"This is indeed a great testimony, God saved you from the accident, gave you another chance to preach about forgiveness, you experienced a practical forgiveness between you and your wife and now breaking the covenant! God is Good" pastor Alfred said and my parents chorused "All the time" that was an affirmation.

"I will love to get to the other members' house before going back home, shall we pray before I take my leave" the pastor said.

"But daddy, you won't now take anything enn? My mother asked but the pastor smiled and thanked my mom for the offer.

The pastor prayed for us and he left.

Finally, we can now rest and get our lives together. My uncle already slept off when I went to check on him in the room while my aunt was doing some kitchen cleaning and dusting.

Mom made us rice and plantain for lunch. Everyone ate and we all went to our rooms to rest.

Our house is a 4 bedroom flat. Despite that mom and dad do sleep in same room, mom still has a room to herself where she kept all her stuff. One funny thing about my mom was that she can keep anything keep-able even the not keep-able things, she still keeps them.

She has some of the books she used in higher institutions in her room and some of the ones she used way back at college too. She will keep as little and not really important things as the manual of a blender and carton of cutleries. Oh my God! Sometimes it can be annoying especially when she asks me to go find one small thing. I'll search and search, scattering almost everywhere before I'll find it because she doesn't know the exact place it is she just knew it is in the room. And after which I'd have to re-arrange again. 

Irrelevant things like shoes that she used years ago that is no longer her size, were still in that room for reasons best known to her.

 Sometimes I just think, what if we don't have our own house or what if our house wasn't as big and spacious as it was. How or where would she have put all these things? 

We normally have Friday vigil in church, it starts at 10pm and ends at 4am, six hours. For those who live close to the church, they can easily go back home after the prayers but for those who live far away and are not mobile, they stay back at church till it's 6am when transport system begins the day's work.

It was few days to Christmas. We decided to attend the Friday vigil for that week we returned from the hospital

My parents, been workers in the church made sure to get to church 30 minutes before the commencement of the program so as to pray and put some certain things in place.

As we approached the church compound that night, we saw people everywhere. Well, it was normal for people to be scattered abroad at that time in church since there was a vigil and almost everyone if not everyone would be present but the reactions, the side-talks, murmurings and gesticulation generally left us wondering. It wasn't just right or normal. What exactly is going on?

"Brother, what's happening?" My mother asked a short dark brother at the church's entrance.

What happened?

Watch out for the next episode.

TANGLED S2 EP2

Season 2, Episode 2.

It wasn't like we have rested a minute before all this drama started and with the instructions from the hospital, we are supposed to get home and rest.

My uncle on the other hand, had been away from his family, his wife too. His intention was just to take us home that day after which he could go back home too. The journey from our house to his house is over 7 hours and he couldn't afford to travel late into the night.

With the unexpected drama we met at home, I know it will be very impossible for my uncle to travel back that day and also, we may not get enough rest as instructed.

Before we knew it, the whole negotiation was taking longer than we expected. 

"Let's take it back a bit so you can understand what we are here for. You may have your seat when you are tired of standing" Katurina said but my father wasn't ready to sit infact it wasn't necessary. 

I could feel my dad's countenance changed. I knew he was very angry now both in the spirit and in the physical.

"I can't leave you to handle this alone. We may need to wait till tomorrow before we leave" uncle Jude said out of concern.

I still don't know why my dad declined the offer of sitting down when he knew that we all are tired already and we needed to rest.

"Kate, your mother belongs to this Fitina group and her name was Yaramina. Let me ask you, do you know the story around your birth?" Safina asked my mother.

"No! No! I am of the LORD and the LORD gave me to my parents. Infact, I was born in the church's mission house" my mother said hurriedly.

The 3 women laughed hysterically and annoyingly and this went on for about 2 minutes nonstop. I really can't figure out what the laugh was about but I was curious to know how much they had to say and what they had to offer.

Eventually, my uncle suggested that we all have a seat as it seems the meeting wasn't going to end anytime soon.

"Mission house? That's worth laughing at because if you know the story around your birth, you won't be spewing thrash like this" Jimakia said.

"I won't take any insult from any of you, not in my house and not to my wife" my dad was beginning to get furious even amidst his curiosity.

"Shut up young man and listen to all we have to say, do you think we have all day?" Safina said and instructed Katurina to continue the story they were about to share.

"Many years ago, your mother came to us that she was at the verge of being sent out of her husband's home because for 5 years, she has been looking for the fruit of the womb and she hasn't find one. We promised to help her but with a but" Katurina was interrupted by my mother.

"That is not true, my mother prayed and God gave me to her. It is true she had a bit of delay but all these you are saying is not true" my mother said.

"We don't have time to waste, so just listen to the end" Jimakia cuts in.

"The but we gave her was that she must initiate you to the group because you are our own and our blood runs through your veins. Before your mother died, she tried every possible means to initiate you but it kept failing. The last attempt she made was what took her life" Katurina continued.

"Your mother came to visit you about 2 years ago and she died immediately she got back to her house. We got angry and took her blood for renewal of the annual party. You had a befitting burial for her but her meat and bone was shared amongst us. Your mama's blood tastes so sweet" Katurina concluded laughing. 

"Ewww, disgusting something" my aunt didn't know when she responded. She hasn't even said much since the whole drama started because she was scared as well as confused.

"Enough of this nonsense!" my dad got up angrily and this time I knew he could do and undo. No one really knew exactly what was going through his mind.

"Listen and listen well, we stand on the Blood of JESUS and his Name, my family doesn't have anything to do with you any longer because he has redeemed us and calls us his own" my father said with confidence. 

I didn't know where the confidence came from but I knew it wasn't by power or by might but by the Spirit of God.

"For there is nothing darkness has to do with light. For this is the reason why the son of God was manifested to destroy the work of the devil"

We all got up and held hands together as my father was talking and we started praying. 

"Blood! Blood! Blood!" the 3 women started shouting.

"The name of our Lord Jesus is a strong tower, the righteous runs into it and they are saved" my father said as we all kept on saying "Amen".

"He has given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the Glory of God the Father" my father concluded.

"The Blood of Jesus!" my mother screamed and she fell on the chair.

The 3 women were badly injured as we pray. Minutes later, we couldn't find them again.

"Kate! Kate! Dear, open your eyes" my dad rushed towards my mom while my aunt was fanning her with the scarf in her hands.

My mother eventually opened her eyes and she felt different.

"Something strange moved out of my body with full force and it rendered me weak till I blanked out" my mother said.

"The LORD has given us VICTORY and this time, it shall be permanent in Jesus name" my father said and we all echoed AMEN! 

Then I remembered one of the songs we were taught in children's church. I started singing and everyone joined me.

"Victory, Victory, Hallelujah, Jesus conquered the devil patapata" we all danced and kept on praising God.

A knock on the door interrupted our moment of praise.

"Who is that again?" My mother murmured. 

Who was it?

Find out in the next episode.

TANGLED S2 EP1

Season 2, Episode 1.

"Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!" my mother was shouting. I tried to hide behind my aunt who was last to come in. I couldn't behold such a scary sight. I needed to be far from it.

We were just getting over the shock of a narrow escape accident and then getting home to the news that a family friend, our neighbour, Mr Olatade lost the wife and now to come in to meet another shocking incident. It was draining. 

"Who are you and who are you looking for? What do you want here?" My father summoned the courage to start up the conversation and also reduce the tension and fear written on everyone's faces. He stretched to check the windows and ceilings if any was broken open, but there was none. 

"Who sent you here? What do you want from us? How did you get in here?" My mother kept throwing questions at them.

We await a reply but all we heard was a laugh of mockery. We didn't know what the laugh was about actually because nothing there was funny.

How they managed to get in was a mystery because the door has been locked all the while we were away. We just opened it and stepped in. Imagine what welcomed us.

Oh, I guess you're wondering what we saw too?

It was 3 old women; not just old but looking unkempt. They were unfamiliar and I was sure none of my family members have ever come across scary looking unkempt old women like that.

"We have an unfinished business and that's why we are here" one of the old women with a straight face replied my dad. 

Unfinished business where? I was already close to peeing on myself as I didn't want to imagine anything negative. I was short of words, prayer wasn't even coming to my mind.

The joy that filled my heart few minutes ago that we just scaled through an accident that fixed my family back together has faded in an instant. 

Deep down, I've been craving my bed, the hospital discomfort opened my eyes to know that there is no place like home. And now this. Somebody can't even rest peacefully after the journey back home.

"What business is that and with who?" my uncle interrupted. 

The more we talked with this unfamiliar women, the more courage we all started getting.

I became quite bold to look into their faces for the first time. It was really horrible. I wouldn't know if they had their faces painted or not. Their hairs were all grey and scattered. Only one of them had a few black hairs amidst the grey ones while the other two were all grey hairs.

One of them I noticed was holding a stick. I didn't know if it was just a tool for holding or if it was meant to assist her in walking. But I decided to believe it was meant for walking. But then I thought why will an old woman that couldn't even walk without being supported on her stick embark on such a mission. 

"You better shut that your stinky mouth up because we are not here for you" one of the old women replied angrily facing my uncle. It was her shout that brought me back from my realm of thoughts.

"Okay, we are sorry. What exactly do you want and who are you?" my father apologised.

I was wondering why my dad was apologizing.

I could hear my mother muttering "Blood of Jesus" under her breath. I could see fear on her face too. 

The 3 women laughed out loud again and I was wondering why they laughed at intervals but I knew they were up to something evil and mischievous or maybe someone sent them to us.

"Before we go too far, we will introduce ourselves to you one after the other so we don't get to be total strangers to you" one of the women said.

"Safina is my name" the light skinned, short but most reserved out of them introduced herself. I could count the number of words she has said since the whole drama started. I knew people with that kind of gentle look and fewer words are the most dangerous. 

"Katurina is my name" the other woman introduced herself. She was dark in complexion, looked quite chubby at least than others who were very lanky. From the way she has been talking, she sounds more like the most angry one. Whenever she talks, it's a shout. The brave and dauntless one you may say.

"Call me Jimakia the mouthed" this name with which she introduced herself can easily tell one that she's the most eloquent amongst them. The talkative you may say.

"Okay we have heard your name, can you go to the business of the day?" dad asked out of curiosity and impatience.

I really wondered where my dad developed that sort of dauntless spirit from. It was amazing. But I was quite scared that they shouldn't hurt him with this overnight boldness he developed and the way he was reacting to them.

"Name your price, let's know how much you weigh" my uncle added angrily.

"We are not here for you. That is the second warning" the angry Katurina said.

I became scared for my uncle. I hope they won't hurt him. I just wished I could take him out from the scene but who am I to even think of that?

"Let's go to the business of today" Safina said facing my dad.

What do they have to offer?

Watch out for the next episode.

TANGLED Episode 15

Episode 15. 

Our house was the fifth on the street. We got closer and we could see sad faces everywhere some where even crying.

My father was happy to eventually know that he has been angry over what never happened all these years. It dawned on him that what the colleague told him wasn't what exactly happened. The colleague who told my father the story only heard of what should have happened and not what actually happened. 

You could as well read the expression on my aunt and uncle's face listening to the risk my mother took just to secure a place for my dad in the company. They were surprised.

This had happened years back and it made me wonder why my father never addressed it calmly at least to hear mom's side of the story but instead, he allowed the devil to cheat him by using my mother's past of what never even happened. Well, thank God for making it a tool to discipline him.

The devil always crave for loopholes that he can use in coming into every Christian home. He has made many homes a target and that's why many of them are no longer united to fight the roaring lion that is looking for which home to devour.

Many also have been locked up in the web of unforgiveness over offenses that could have been addressed, pardoned and forgotten.

"What's happening here?" My father asked a young guy that was passing by but the guy said he doesn't really know what was going on. Those that were standing were standing, others were sitting some even on the ground, there were murmurings, grumblings, different sections, male, female, old, young. It was indeed a confused and disturbing sight.

We got to our house and my uncle found a close by place to park as our car park was occupied by people too.

"Shall we pray?" My aunt requested.

"We will pray when we get into the house, let's just figure out what is going on out there" my uncle suggested.

We all agreed and stepped out of the car to clear our curiosity. The moment we stepped out of the car, people started shouting and jubilating jumping up.

We were even more confused as all attention were shifted to us.

"We thought you are dead" one fat dark woman shouted with her hands on her head.

"Abi o, we were crying and shouting when we all heard that the family had an accident" another woman interrupted. 

"Ah! No oooo not at all. God spared our lives" my dad answered.

My uncle just stood fixed. I guess we had the same thought which was "Where did they get the death information?" Who knows? I wonder. Well, like the woman said 'we thought..." so, the full street actually gathered for a thought that wasn't confirmed true and real? That was wonderful!

"What of Mr Abbey and Mr Olatade" my mother asked while trying to understand why they weren't present in this gathering. Also, she noticed some persons were standing at Mr Olatade's house and crying. 

"It is Mr Olatade's wife ooo, she was in labour but before they rushed her to the hospital, she gave up the ghost" one of our neighbours said.

"Jesus! Oh my God" my mother shouted. I could relate well with the shout because sometimes we can't tell why something bad happen to good people.

Mr Olatade was a very good man, he has been helpful in many ways and he was part of those that travelled down to where we were been treated at the hospital in another town and stayed with us there.

He was a secondary school teacher at the state government school while the wife was a petty trader. They were very supportive and easy going couple you can never see them in a fight or argument. 

Deep down, I was questioning God why he made that year a very emotional, stressful, psychologically challenging and spiritually shaking one.

We first entered Mr Olatade's house and we saw their little son, who shouldn't be more than 7 years with one of their church members. 

We couldn't stay too long there because of the long journey we just had. We needed to rest too. My mum suggested we come back and check on the family later in the day. Maybe by then Mr Olatade should be back.

As we were about stepping out of the house, Mr Olatade came back and the moment people saw him, they started shouting and crying again. We tried to console him and my father gave him a close hug.

"The Lord will be with you at this trying time my friend" my father said calmly while releasing him from the hug.

"Amen, thank you very much sir and welcome back home. We're glad to have you back. It's only unfortunate that you came back to meet this tragedy" Mr Olatade said.

"It is well my friend. God knows best" My dad comforted.

We haven't even entered our house since we got back. My uncle and aunt were standing outside waiting for when we will be done greeting the Olatade's so we could all go inside together.

Mr Abbey also came around, he was very excited to see us. He had informed the church about our accident and we got greetings from them even while we were at the hospital.

"Welcome back, how do you feel now" Mr Abbey asked and he added "the church has been praying for your safe return. Thank God for answers to prayers"

"All praise to God. Thanks Mr Abbey, I appreciate all your care and concern" my father replied.

It was exciting to be finally back home. At least we will have the sleep we have missed and also pray the style we love in our own house without minding what anyone else has to say.

Our area is an estate where many of the houses looked alike and only a few people could afford to build a fence at that time. It was so easy to turn out from our backyard and enter into another person's compound.

After all the welcome pleasantries, we were set to go inside. My father opened the door and he was the first person to enter the sitting room. My mom followed behind him then uncle Jude went in next. I was behind my uncle and my aunt came in last.

The moment we stepped in, what we found left us frightened. I was very scared. I may not be able to tell about my parents. They may not have been as scared as I was because they were older. But from all expressions we were all scared only that mine must have been worse.

"Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!" My mother kept shouting.

The name of Jesus was never far from my mother's mouth. 

What happened next?

The journey just began.

Watch out for SEASON 2!

TANGLED Episode 14

Episode 14

"Should I take through the other town? I think that route is faster" My uncle asked as we journeyed.

With every town we passed, we got closer home. The fear of what happened before was still in me and the scene kept coming as a flash to my mind and sometimes when my uncle drives a little too fast, my heart starts beating fast.

I was more than excited to know that God took us through some experiences in life to make us stronger and even trust him more. We all knew that we were going back home never to be the same again after all we had witnessed in the space of time. 

Indeed, what doesn't kill someone always makes someone stronger. Not only does it make someone stronger but also adds to someone's testimony. One of our family watchwords from Isaiah 43: 1 and 2 dropped in my heart.

"But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine."

"When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee."

If he could take us through all that has happened and yet he saved us and gave us another chance, then surely he has plans for us.

"You can go ahead my dear, I'm listening" my dad said.

"After hearing the several complaints about your stay at home and how it was running you to depression, I thought of how to work things out in my work place" my mother started narrating what happened back then. Her own side of the story obviously.

"You had to go that far for me? Just to secure a job for me?" My father interrupted. 

I realised that my father was calm about everything now and was willing to hear mother's side of the story unlike before. I guess over the years, they haven't patiently listened to each other's side of the story or maybe my father always chose the side of the story he wants to believe or he was made to believe.

"Internal opening wasn't always available to the public but within the company for those that has someone or that can recommend someone. I knew almost everyone in the company have someone they will recommend or they feel is best to fit into whatever opening that we have. That was why I decided that I will go to any length to help you out" my mother said as she locked her hands into that of my dad.

"I believe that if we only pray and not take some decision by faith or you can say by risk, we may not get the necessary result, that was why I had to push a bit more and see what will come out of it" mom continued.

"Truly, our HR lead has been on my neck for outing and hangout for a while, I kept rejecting and reminding him that he is a married man and I am also a married young woman but the only song he kept singing to my ears was that it doesn't matter. He told me severally how he will take care of me and also take me to cloud 9 and the likes, I kept rejecting it. I took my stand as a Christian and as a child of God but deep down I knew I needed his help" mom looked up and sighed heavily.

"Till one day, I went to his office. There was this small space for his clerk and another small space for his secretary. The clerk is a man while the secretary is a woman. They all know that nothing comes for free when it comes to HR lead, if you are not paying in cash, you are paying with something else" she paused a while and continued.

"I never knew his clerk hasn't gone home that evening and he overheard me agreeing to follow the HR lead to the hotel for that weekend" my father didn't let my mother finish what she was saying before he interrupted. 

"You mean that weekend you told me that you were going to vigil to win that mountain for us?" 

"Exactly my dear, that weekend" my mother responded affirmatively.

One of my dad's attributes is the ability to remember details and happenings. You don't want to offend my dad or say some nasty things to him. He will remember everything word for word with date and all accuracy no matter how long. 

"Well, I am not surprised that you still remember what I said that weekend because I know you too well" they both laughed and my mother continued her story.

"I made a plan on the Thursday night preceding Friday the D-day with another female colleague. I told her I can't sleep with a married man that she should advice me on what to do. I have always known her to be a smart and wise lady, I asked for her idea on how to go about it. We both concluded to find a way out and we did find a way out. It was her idea anyways. Guess what we did?" My mother asked.

"I can't think of anything right now but I have always been bitter hearing and getting to know that you went to the hotel and slept with a man to get me a job" my dad said.

"We arranged for a prostitute with double pay of what she would have collected for a night and then we asked her to come in as if she's a delivery person. We paid the receptionist for that night shift too so everyone was working towards the same aim".

"My colleague and I booked a room in that hotel so that she can stay there and follow up everything that was going on"

"Prostitute? You mean... are you for real right now" my father asked with confusion written all over him.

"So I joined the HR lead at exactly 8:30pm and all dressed up. Everyone was already on stand by and we were working with the calculation. My colleague already gave me a substance that can get someone intoxicated, I wrapped it and kept it in my bag"

"The HR lead was so happy to see me and he started talking about how long he has wished he had a taste of me. I wasn't interested in his talks; deep down, I was scared. What if the substance fails or he finds out, another thought was what if the man eventually sleeps with me? I quickly pushed the thoughts aside"

"We ordered a drink through the room service. The prostitute already got the sign and then came in all dressed in black skirt and white shirt. She dropped the drink and was hanging around as if she was taking orders for other rooms "

"We started drinking, although not an alcoholic wine. After taking a cup and having a toast, he excused himself to use the bathroom. I quickly poured the substance in his drink and hid the rest in my bag. My joy was that the drink didn't change colour or anything that could leave a trace"

"I held my cup waiting for him to return. I know if I dropped my cup, I might end up picking the wrong cup. Minutes later, he was back and he took a bit of his remaining drink. He lost consciousness and then the prostitute came in. I had to run to the bathroom while the whole show was going on, the light in the room was off so he wouldn't figure anything out"

"It was a long night for me and I was silently praying that our plans shouldn't fail. Not long from then, he eventually slept off. The prostitute moved to the other room with my colleague and I joined him in the room. I couldn't sleep. I kept checking my time. At the time I stepped back into the room when the prostitute left, it was still 2AM. I was scared that anything might happened"

"That night, I realise that it takes longer for a new day to dawn. I managed to sleep but I kept waking up at short intervals, the time wasn't moving as fast as I wanted."

"Finally, he woke up and when I checked my time, it was 6:00am already. He told me how he never imagined I could give all the styles I gave through the night, I gave a fake smile and reminded him that I need him to secure that space for my husband and he agreed to it". 

"I dashed out of the room before him and checked on the ladies in the other room. We clocked off and were checked out of the hotel. I went straight to my colleagues house. Thank God it was a Saturday. I was going to sleep all day and I did". Mom concluded.

I never knew my mother could go that far just to secure my father a job. 

Her story left everyone amazed.

We were on our street already and we could see our house at a distance. But we saw people standing outside with different expressions on their faces. The more we moved closer, the more people we see scattered everywhere. 

What happened next?

Watch out for what next.

TANGLED Episode 13

Episode 13.

"No! No! Noo..." my mother kept shouting with her eyes closed.

I was actually thinking she heard all my dad has been saying and that was why she was saying no. The look on everyone's face was same. We were obviously surprised. We paused a while to figure out what was going on.

"Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against his anointed, saying, let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure..." my mother was saying this particular Psalm 2 while still having her eyes closed. 

Immediately, my dad knew a battle was raging and her shout wasn't in line with what he was talking about initially. 

Everyone held each others hands and started praying. My mom started saying some strange words and that was when we understood that whatever was going on was more than what we knew or could talk about.

"You have no power over me again, I am no longer a slave to sin, I am a child of God" my mom kept saying and I was wondering if my father knew about all what my mother was saying.

We started praying and we continued shouting "The Blood of Jesus". I remembered my dad has always said there's no evil that won't bow at the mention of the name of Jesus or at the sight of His Innocent Blood that was shed. My father started a song and we joined him.

"There is power mighty in the blood, there is power mighty in the blood, there's power mighty in the blood of Jesus Christ, there is power mighty in the blood"

This went on and on for about 30 minutes and I was beginning to feel tired. 

Shortly, we heard a loud feminine voice and the room was getting somehow cloudy. I have never seen such in my life, maybe on TV but not in reality. 

"Your mother made a covenant with us and when she was dying, she put down your name so you can take up her role. It's a covenant that can never be broken" the voice echoed.

Then it was clear to us that my maternal grandmother that died not too long ago has nominated her daughter, my mom to take up her role in an occult group.

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed" my mother responded.

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" my father replied.

I was scared but I tried to hold my father's hand firmly. Whenever I'm scared, my palm gets sweaty and my hands shaky. I haven't witness anything like that before and I wasn't sure I was going to get over the scenario anytime soon.

"You have lost this battle because I know whom I have believed and I am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day" my mother said. She sat up and was gradually opening her eyes.

She was sweating profusely and tears were flowing freely down her cheeks. She eventually opened her eyes.

"Where am I? Where am I please?" My mother asked looking confused.

"Praise the Lord" my father interrupted. 

My mom wasn't sure of what the praise the Lord was about. She noticed everyone was excited and jumping up and that left her even more confused. She didn't know we were happy that she has regained consciousness.

The doctor came inside and was surprised to see my mother sitting and taking after 3 days that she couldn't comprehend anything at all.

"Hallelujah! How did it happen?" The doctor asked curiously.

"Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stall:.." I remembered that scripture and I quickly joined my mother to continue.

"Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation" My father couldn't help but joined us to round off.

"The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments". We concluded while my aunt and uncle chorused "Amen"

The doctor was in awe and he concluded that we were special patients as there has been no such miracle in the hospital ever before.

It was a day of joy and gladness for us all. And true to daddy's word, we were all coming out of the hospital alive, safe and sound. To God be all the Glory!

2 days later, we were discharged and a few things were prescribed for my parents to help them keep fit and also stay healthy.

My uncle had come with his car and he chose to take us home. That made my dad remember his car and when he asked after it, my uncle told him not to bother much about it as God will provide another one. All these while, he hasn't asked about it. His response that day was just a sigh. I guess that meant "well, thank God it was only a car and not a life; when there's life, there's hope".

"My dear, I hope you will forgive me for over-reacting and for my constant mentioning of that happening?" my dad started the conversation.

"I have forgiven you dear but I have something to say about what led to that argument which eventually led to the accident" My mom said.

"Really? Go ahead dear, I am all ears" my father replied.

What does my mother have to say?

Watch out in the next episode.

TANGLED Episode 12

Episode 12

My father adjusted himself and tried to rest his back on the wall. You could see the attentiveness of my uncle and aunt. They too had no idea of what mom did or of the frequent quarrels and arguments in our house.

We've always had this family concept of everyone minding their business to save ourselves from unnecessary stress and attention. So we were close from afar as per family members but with little or no information about ourselves. 

I was curious and patiently waiting to hear what my mother's offense was.

"Many years ago, I think 13 or 15 years ago I can't really remember which of the year but it has been long you know"

"Your mom, my wife, she was one of the best thing that has ever happened to me. I met her during our service year in Kebbi although we weren't in same platoon in camp. I was in platoon 7 and she was in platoon 9. We met at the Local Government which happened to be our place of primary assignment" My father held my mother's hand and was smiling as he took us through the memory lane.

"Our love story started there gradually, I wasn't totally the Christian brother or better put I was not a born-again brother despite that I was born and bred in a christian home. My wife was the fire branded and spirit grounded beautiful young lady then and several times she persuaded me to give my life to christ too but I wanted to play the saint and sinner role together" 

"We got married 3 years after our service and our journey continued but she got a job immediately after service while I couldn't. I felt maybe God was punishing me for not giving him my life, that's why she got a job and I couldn't. She kept encouraging me to apply for anything anywhere, that someday, one day it will work out".

"I had my doubt whether God will answer my prayers that time and depression was gradually crawling in. I felt less of a man when it was my wife that was paying for almost all the expenses in the house. I really felt irresponsible even though my wife was still submissive with all she has and never for once looked down on me".

"Then hatred came in from nowhere and I started getting aggressive at a little misunderstanding. I'll always say to her "is it because you have a job and I don't? Is that why you're feeling like you own the house?". Even when clearly I was at fault. And you know, with all that, she still remained calm and she will make sure we don't sleep over unresolved matters".

"Until one afternoon, a postman came knocking at our door with a letter and I was wondering what the letter could be. I collected the letter, thanked the post man and went to the room to read through but I was shocked, surprised and happy at the same time. Guess what I saw" My dad asked.

"Ah! Brother, you're the only person in the right position to tell us what you found in the letter. We don't know" My uncle answered for everyone.

"Letter of invitation to come for an interview. I was shortlisted to come for an interview for a post I never applied for and at a company I didn't send any of my application letter. Meanwhile, I realised the company's name was familiar but I didn't want to assume anything. So, I patiently waited for my wife to get back from work".

"She came back in the evening and I handed over the letter to her to have a look and immediately she opened the letter, she said 'This is the Lord's doing and it's marvellous in our sight' She hugged me and said congratulations" my dad was smiling as he told the story. We could see on his face how happy he was. 

Shortly, the doctor came in to confirm if my mom was feeling better and resting as well because he had told us to allow her rest. The moment the doctor entered, my dad stopped telling his story.

"I think you should let her rest properly instead of sitting up like this. If she is not sleeping enough, we may not get the response from the treatment we are giving her" the doctor said.

My dad assisted my mom to lie down properly and rest as the doctor had said and he moved towards the edge of the bed so she could lie properly. The doctor placed his hand on my mom's forehead to be sure she was not running temperature.

Few minutes later, the doctor left us and the story continued. My mom was facing the wall, I wasn't too sure if she could hear us or comprehend what was going on in her environment.

"But I didn't apply for this position at this company" I said to her that evening and she encouraged me that I needed to go because it was an answer to the prayers we've been praying. I asked her if the company's name wasn't the same as the company she was working for and she answered affirmatively.

I thought within me "Does that mean my wife could help me get a job in the company she works for all this while and she didn't? Does it mean she intentionally let me suffer this long before helping?" The bitterness started rushing through my head.

"My wife had gone to the living room to change so she could prepare dinner while I was still at the sitting room overthinking everything. The devil also made matters worse by suggesting the negativity around the job. I didn't know when I threw the letter across the centre table where I initially placed my leg. I was angry within me, I became ungrateful"

"Did you go for the interview? Because even me your brother, I'm hearing this for the first time" my uncle interrupted.

"Well, yes I eventually went for the interview and out of 15 people that came around that day, I was part of the first 5 that was employed. It was then I realised that the competition to get into that company was high and hard. It was really strong".

"I resumed work the following week which happened to be the first week of April and I was introduced to my department. I met with people, most especially the old staffs that has been in the company for years"

"To cut the long story short, a colleague told me that when my wife first joined the company, she was the personal assistant to the team leader of her department before she got promoted to the secretary that oversees all the activities within her department".

"She knows that recruitment to the company for major positions are internal and she has been saying it all along that she needed to get her husband a job. Although, the policy of the company was quite flexible as couples could work in the company but will be in different department".

He added that my wife actually had no option than to bend to the offer of the HR Lead to sleep with him to secure a space for her husband in the company so long as that will be the first and last time she will ever try that"

"He concluded that my wife took the offer and that was why I was invited to come for the interview and finally got the job". 

I became angry when he told me that. I felt like the ground should open so I can enter. I was embarrassed. I couldn't just imagine that my wife could stoop so low to take the offer just to get me a job. And now to know that it wasn't just an imagination but reality, got me even angrier.

"There are some certain things that will happen to you that will bring out the monster in you no matter how gentle and easy-going you are. I have never been that angry in my whole life and that was the beginning of our issue".

"No! No! Noo..." my mother screamed.

"What?" Everyone excluding me shouted.

What happened next?

Watch out for it in the next episode.

TANGLED Episode 11

Episode 11.

"My dear, how are you feeling this morning?" My dad asked to see if there will be any response from my mother.

Unfortunately, there was none. She wasn't saying anything she kept looking up and down not seeming to understand what anyone was saying to her.

Mom has not been talking since she came out of the shock. We have been praying for her and trying to tell her things that can even remind her of us. Dad talked about the accident. "Dear, do you remember when we were travelling that day, the shoutings, the punches, the trailer that overtook and left us with no option but to swerve into the bush? Do you remember how it all happened?" There's was no pinch of a response from mom. She stared into the ceiling blinking her hers involuntarily.

I thought maybe that was too negative a situation to remind her of. I decided to make her remember happy moments. 

"Mom, you remember when we celebrated children's day on May 27th, the beauty of that amusement park still leaves me wondering what heaven will be like, remember the games we played, I remember I won and you bought me my favourite ice-cream flavour, the Joy that day was super awesome. I want more of it. Remember you said 'Jesus has put that Joy in us and he will never take it away'" I said looking straight into her eyes and robbing her hand and fingers playfully with mine. I expected her response, but I got none. She kept looking fixedly at whatever she was looking at then after a while she will roll her eyes. 

I was broken. "Mom, why do you want to take this Joy away? you promised to buy another Ice-cream for me on your birthday. Moreso, you promised to take care of me, Mom please get up from this bed let's go home. I don't have any other mother. Mommy pleassseeeee get up....." I was already in tears. Everyone had a wet eye too. My aunt quickly came to me to console me I guess. But I wouldn't be consoled. 

 

All our efforts proved abortive, the only relieve we had was the fact that she was eating and she signals too when she is feeling pressed or whenever she wants to use the toilet. Many times when my aunt isn't alert, she would keep rolling from one end of the bed to another to make her conscious that she needs help on something. And immediately my aunt notices her several rollings she knew quite well to help.

"My dear, I want to believe we will all come out of here alive, safe and sound" Dad said to mommy.

He has said in his word 'If we have faith that is as small as a mustard seed, we will command the mountain to move and it will'. "I'm joining the faith of everyone here with yours, that you will be fine" dad was holding mom's hand while sitting at the edge of the bed.

"Okay, I think I should let you know that from the bottom of my heart, I have forgiven you for everything that has happened and I promise never to use any of this as a sore point whenever we have issues" he sighed and continued.

"I will try my best possible to love you now and always even more than how it used to be when we first met. I know my temper sometimes gets unstable but I believe God is working on my heart as well".

"I have forgiven you of everything. From the bottom of my heart, I forgive you" my dad concluded with tears in his eyes.

I ran to him where he was seated and gave him a very big hug. This was one of the very few moments that I will see my father being that emotional to the extent of crying.

My uncle excused himself so as to fix breakfast for us.

Minutes later, 2 young unfamiliar men entered my mom's room where we were. Initially, I thought they were another set of media team that were coming over to ask about the encounter.

 

"Calvary greetings to you sir and ma, we are the evangelism team from Treasure Bible Mission, we do hospital evangelism and my name is Pastor Fred." The first man introduced himself.

"I am Pastor Kingsley and we are here to check on you and also pray with you sir." He added.

"I have been to hospital severally but I am not sure I have gone on a Sunday maybe that's why I don't know people do hospital evangelism" my dad said "You're welcome sirs, he added still holding mom's hands.

I was happy because we were still going to have a taste of Sunday sermon from this evangelism team. So, we won't totally miss Sunday worship. I was also wondering at same time that God still has people that can be committed to work like this. It was truly wonderful.

Sometimes we don't value what we have until it's taken away from us. No one eventually thought dad how to love mom better aside that accident. 

I have been praying that a time should come when they will be united and enjoy the whole marital fun ride together and now, the accident seemed to be the answer to my prayer. It has changed the way my dad sees my mom.

After the pastors had prayed for my mother, they asked us to join them in praying for her as well. We all stretched our hands towards her and prayed. Pastor Fred rounded off the prayers and they took their leave.

My uncle soon returned with few satchets of water and bread with bean cake so we can all eat.

"Bless this food, oh LORD, for Christ sake" my aunt prayed briefly and we all started to eat.

I had wanted to ask my dad a question but I wasn't sure of the best time to ask neither was I sure how he will take it.

I waited till everyone finished their food. Dad fed mom and ensured she ate. She took some fruits and her drugs as well.

"Dad, I would love to ask you a question, promise me you will answer" I asked waiting to see the reaction on his face. His reaction will determine whether I will ask the question now or wait till later when the atmosphere is much fit to ask or even forget about it.

"I need to know what it is, that's when I can promise. Nonetheless, you can talk to me" my dad said trying to figure out what it may be that I wanted to ask him.

"What did mom do that you held on to all these while? What was her offense?" I was a bit hesitant. I felt too small I guess to ask him questions but I asked anyways because I wanted to know.

"It's not a long story, it still can be told" my dad said with a straight face. I had to quickly change my mind and told him not to bother. "Maybe we can talk about it later" I said.

"Alright I will tell you, since Matthew 7:7 has given you the go ahead to ask" he sighed. 

What happened next?

Watch out for the next episode.

TANGLED Episode 10

Episode 10.

"We are sorry, we can't let you just come in here and start carrying anything out" one of the nurses cautioned as she was raising her voice. 

Nothing was as confusing as seeing how people has been coming into the hospital to cause different scenes since the day we got into the hospital. 

"I said no, I don't think you understand simple English. You can't come in and that's final" the nurse said. She was obviously angrier this time.

I was just thinking while still lying on my bed. What could it be? Has someone else come for money or did something else happened again? Was there another accident victim and they wanted the person to be treated urgently? What could be causing this chaos this early morning?

When I couldn't take the noise again, I moved out of my room to check what was going on through the window in my room. I saw them but not very clearly. I had no option than to open the door and walked a bit to the lobby leading to the reception hall.

I saw 3 people, 2 guys and a lady. They were all properly dressed and they looked normal. "I wouldn't even assume they came to the hospital to do medical check up but even if it was medical check up, why then is the nurse shouting" I thought.

"Madam, we promise not to take much time. Okay let's make it 3 minutes instead of the 10 minutes we initially said" the lady amongst them said.

One of the guy was holding something like a small tape recorder in his hand while the other guy was holding pen and paper. The lady was looking all prepared like she was in for an examination.

The nurse was still insisting that they can't do anything. She was not even ready to let them see the doctor not to talk of taking his permission. 

The moment they sighted me, they shifted their attention from the nurse to me. I was confused why all eyes were on me and I could bet that I haven't seen any of the faces before.

"She should be the one" the lady pointed to me as soon as she saw me.

"Yes, she may likely be the one" the guy with the tape in his hand said.

"Please respect yourself and don't move an inch. I've been trying to keep calm since but you are pushing me already" the nurse said while resting on the front desk.

"But I don't know you, what are you here for?" I raised my other hand as I asked to know why they were pointing at me. At least they should help refresh my memory if we have met before.

The nurse's refusal to let them in, my insistence on knowing who they were and their plea to go in for just few minutes to do whatever it was they came to do made the whole place noisy. 

"Please keep your voices low, we have patients inside" the nurse kept saying.

"Oh! Thank God you are here" the nurse said in relief as she saw doctor Joe walk in from the lobby to the reception hall.

"What's happening here? And how may we be of help?" Doctor Joe asked calmly.

The nurse wasn't calm enough to even listen to why they were there.

"They just walked in and want to record all that is happening here, I have been telling them it's not allowed but they wouldn't listen" the nurse answered.

"Doctor, we are sorry. My colleagues and I works with Tray FM and we are here to conduct a brief interview, my name is Uche" one of the guys said while trying to introduce himself and the others. 

"Good morning sir. I am Jacob" the guy with the tape recorder in his hands said.

"I am Tina sir" the fair young lady introduced herself and further stated that they won't take much time as they heard about some accident victims that were rushed to the hospital few days ago. She explained how they have searched other local hospitals before getting here.

"We also learnt that the man died and came back with the prayer of a young girl. One of the discharged patients from here told one of our correspondents, that was what led us here sir" Tina concluded. 

"Well, as much as we don't entertain such here, this case is a peculiar one, you can come with me" the doctor requested.

My aunt left mom's room, joined the journalists and the doctor to meet my father and uncle.

"Good morning, how are you feeling now?" The doctor greeted and everyone else picked a position as the seat provided in the room couldn't take more than 2 persons.

"By His Grace, I'm getting better everyday. Thanks for everything doctor" my dad said with a smile on his face.

"The interview promised not to last more than 3 to 5 minutes" Uche the second guy said.

"We will just go straight to the point, tell us about the accident, your death and resurrection sir" Tina said facing my dad.

"Well, don't put it that way. Better put, how God's grace rescued me and mercy said no" my father said smiling.

"But sir, we weren't told about mercy, can you shed more light?" Tina added, looking lost and confused.

"The accident happened, we left the road to the bush but the mud held us, if not we would have hit the big tree in front. I was in coma for a while and that led to my encounter and my daughter here used the weapon of praise to win God's heart"

"Encounter? Kindly tell us about it sir" Uche said while taking note. 

"He gave me a second chance and told me about how many Christian's today are swimming in the pool of unforgiveness. I have always had this hurt for my wife and I always assumed I have forgiven her but no I didn't. I didn't let go and whenever we have any little argument, my sore point was always to rob that offense on her" my dad said.

"Would you love to share the offense?" Uche asked.

"I am sorry, I may not be able to say that but all I can say is that he gave me a warning that I should go out there and tell the world about the gospel of his death and resurrection, how he forgave our debt and set us free"

"So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses" 

"Which means he will do unto us what the master did to that servant in Matthew chapter 18 if we fail to forgive those that hurt us" my father concluded.  

"Young lady, can you tell us how you did that?" the lady asked facing me.

 I didn't have a better answer.

"He said in everything we should give thanks. More so, I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me" I replied as I could.

"Wow, I'm impressed and I can say this your daughter was well taught, keep it up girl" Tina said as she stands to leave with the crew.

"How about your wife sir?" Uche asked.

"She's still resting, it took a while before she slept last night" my aunt responded.

The crew from Tray FM thanked everyone as they made their way to the door and bid everyone goodbye. 

"Let's go and check on mummy" my dad suggested and we all agreed to that.

What happened next?

Watch out for it in the next episode.

TANGLED Episode 9

Episode 9.

It has been 3 days now that my family has been in the hospital. It would have been bad if they had not helped us bring our bags to the hospital after the accident because I can't even think of wearing same cloth more than once.

I had always done that even when I was much younger. Sometimes, I can wear up to two or three clothes a day. Whenever I notice an obvious stain, I'll go change it and dumped the former. It got to a point that my mom started locking my box of clothes in her room. 

She'll always complain. "Is it because you are not the one washing the clothes? How will you wear three clothes a day? I'll soon start to make you wash these clothes yourself" these were some of mom's lines.

As time went by and as I grew older, I minimised the way I changed clothes. Well, maybe true to mom's words it was because I started washing them myself. I may not wear two clothes in one day again but I'll never wear one cloth twice.

I had gotten used to this, and whenever I am travelling, I must always take clothes for the number of days I'm to spend and sometimes I may add an extra one. I did that for this journey too. And now that our bags were brought with us to the hospital, I was happy. 

Above all, I thank God that I was still alive. I wouldn't have been worrying about which cloth to wear or which shoe to wear in the grave.

My father was already getting better, the pain he was feeling is less compared to the first 2 days. He can even move around by himself now without being assisted again.

As for me, my left hand was still hanging around my neck and I was scared if my hand won't permanently remain that way. It was very heavy, if they had not hung it around my neck, I wouldn't have been able to lift the hand by myself.

My mother on the other hand was not getting any better. She was still having issues with remembering things and the more we tried to communicate to her, the more lost and confused she looked.

"She needs to rest. I hope she has eaten and taken her drugs?" Doctor Joe asked that afternoon.

"Yes, she has" uncle Jude's wife replied. "But Doctor, do you think she will ever regain her memory? Will she continue like this forever?" She added.

"Well, I can't say. But I know that there's power in prayer. So, for now just keep praying and let's see what God will make of the situation". Doctor Joe responded firmly.

Mr Abbey went home the next day to meet his family. He really tried for us my aunt said. We appreciated him greatly as he never planned to stay that long but he eventually did.

My uncle and aunt were still around, although my uncle had to travel home to get some stuff to help them stay a bit more with us and also some cash to settle some of the bills.

Thank God for the strangers that brought us here. They paid for our admission into the hospital so treatment could begin, they also assisted in dragging out our car from the mud and never requested us to repay.

My dad was in his room, sleeping sound like a bouncing baby boy and my aunt who was awake almost all through the night was sitting on the plastic chair beside the bed, resting her head on the wall and taking a nap.

"Let me go out and get some fruits and what we will take for dinner" my uncle excused himself.

I was left alone awake, looking at my mom that was just sitting on the bed, looking lost and rough. I have never seen my mom look like that before and I was silently wishing that this phase should just go because it's beginning to be scary.

At a point, I was wondering what difference does it make when you are dead as compared to when you are alive and couldn't comprehend what is going on around you.

Soon I felt a stirring in my spirit. I was revived. God started reminding me of the things he has done. How he has made the eyes of the blind to see and made ways in the sea. How he made the lame to walk, the deaf to hear and the dumb to talk.

I knelt close to the bed and started telling my mother about what has been happening for the past 3 days. How God saved us from the accident and how dad died and came back to life with a great encounter. I concluded with how everyone in the room rededicated their lives back to Christ. 

I was grateful to God for the family He gave me. I remembered a time we picked each Psalm per day till we were able to cover all the Psalms. 

I started singing one of the songs we were taught in children's church. "Expect a miracle when you pray, there is power sitting on the throne". Shortly, I felt the urge to pray for the restoration of my mother's memory. 

"Give ear to my words, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness; neither shall evil dwell with thee." 

I was crying and weeping, at some point my aunt joined me and we continued praying. We didn't realize that time had gone late into the night. My uncle came in and joined us as well.

"In Jesus name we pray" my uncle rounded off the prayers after a while and we all chorused AMEN!. 

He suggested we eat and take the fruits. Good for me, it was my favourite fruits combination; Pineapple, Watermelon, Apple, Banana and Orange. My aunt helped in preparing the fruit salad. I took small food and ate the fruits to my satisfaction. My dad prefer Orange but I never liked that. He took his Orange and I had an extra Apple for myself. My aunt kept the bananas to be used the next day.

We all ate and retired to bed. My uncle sleeps in my dad's room so as to assist him with things when necessary while my aunt stays in my mom's room to help her with any thing. 

I didn't know when I slept off that night. I was really exhausted.

At dawn, it was a Sunday morning and it was a shout within the hospital that woke us up.

What happened next?

Watch out for it.

TANGLED Episode 8

Episode 8.

"You said you heard a footstep or something" Mr. Abbey who has been listening keenly reminded my dad where he stopped.

"Thank you very much. I kept hearing the footsteps for more than two minutes but I still didn't see the person's face. Suddenly, a man appeared wearing a white agbada, his face was looking fresh as well as his skin, he had a staff in his right hand and a handkerchief in his other hand. The moment the man that was hitting me sighted him, he went on his knees and shouted master" my father sighed heavily.

"Master? What kind of master?" My aunty interrupted.

He started by saying he forgave me when I hurt him, even when I hurt him to the point of him regretting he ever called me his own. He added that if he had killed me when I first offended him, then I wouldn't be here.

"The more he talked, the more confused I got because I found it hard to recognize his face or voice, and also I couldn't comprehend what he was talking about" my father continued.

"He said to the unknown man that has beaten me to remove the mask on his face and show himself to me. I wanted to say no because I didn't want to see the face of this wicked and unfair man that has been hitting me mercilessly as if he would beat the life out of me. The master asked him to open his mask and he did, I was shocked when I saw the face" my dad said holding his arms and sighing at every interval.

"Which face? Was it someone you know somewhere? A family member or who?" My aunt asked. It was obvious she was curious. Well, we all were curious.

We couldn't relate to the story yet. We needed him to spill everything.

"I saw myself. I was so shocked and I started shivering on the stool I was sitting. How can I be the one beating myself all this while and I was still calling the unknown man a wicked and an unfair person".  "Does that mean I haven't been fair to myself and that was why I was beating myself?" I thought to myself.

We all were confused too. How can a man beat himself? that wouldn't be anything else but a mystery. We all wanted to know what happened after that and how he got a second chance back at life.

"He said to me that I have been the one beating myself because I've been swimming in the pool of unforgiveness".

Every day we pray to God to forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who trespassed against us. I had to ask for clarification because I wasn't sure I had anyone I have not forgiven. 

"I'm a child of God and a worker in his vineyard" I added and this made him laugh and clapped. I wondered why he laughed.

"Why did he laugh? Tell us daddy" I interrupted him.

Immediately, his face changed and he stood on his feet from the invisible chair he was sitting on. His eyes became red and the handkerchief in his left hand changed to a white plain book. I was wondering what kind of book it was and what it was used for. 

He asked if I haven't heard or read of a certain man who his master forgave of his debt and even asked him to go home but he met a fellow servant and killed him for owing him less.

"He concluded with what broke my heart more".

"What exactly was that? Tell us please" Mr. Abbey said.

"He said many Christians are just working for God today but doesn't have a walk with God". "They are swimming in the pool of unforgiveness and it's sad that they see nothing wrong with it" he added.

"If he can forgive us of our debts that is way bigger than we can pay, how much more forgiving someone that owes us less" he said with much grieve.

"Many assume they are children of God because of their good deeds, forgetting that it was by Grace they are saved".

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that Grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? The man kept talking and his words kept hitting me so hard but I still couldn't remember anyone that offended me that I refused to forgive.

"He said what led me here was my unforgiving spirit which had led to the accident that happened earlier yesterday. He added that he allowed the accident so as to correct me. He reminded me that every time there was an issue with my wife and I, the first sore point I always remember is the part where she offended me many years ago and I kept on rubbing it on her. I always get very angry whenever I remembered what she has done for me. I have refused to forgive her"

"Don't you know that old things are passed away and everything has become new? Or you don't know that whoever Jesus frees, is free indeed? Why then do you keep counting the sin of the past that Jesus has cleansed?" 

"He said on a final note that my name was found in the book. I shouted and wanted to start dancing that my name was written in the book of life despite my flaws but he said it's not the book of life but the book of works, therefore I should be carried outside where I belong".

"Then it dawned on me. I started begging and asking for mercy to prevail over judgment.  He turned his face away because he heard me talk about mercy".

My dad was in tears. I can't remember ever seeing my dad cry before.

"He gave me a condition and why he will send me back to go and make my ways right," Dad said sobbing

"What's it, we are with you? My uncle asked while my aunty was just crying.

"He said he wants me to go and make my ways right and tell others about how serious unforgiveness can be and then he added that the praises of my daughter to the master was what saved me".

"Immediately he said that, the room became empty, my hands and legs were set loose" 

"It was then that I shouted please Father! I promised to make my ways right and tell everyone about my encounter".

"Is there anyone here who has something against someone? How long have you been keeping that brother or sister in your heart? The Lord is sending me to tell you to release that person".

Everyone started praying and weeping profusely. 

INTERMISSION 

What happened next?

Watch out for it.

TANGLED Episode 7

Episode 7.

"Eh God, we are trying to quench a fire here another one is coming up" my uncle said and that was the last thing I heard. 

I passed out, I lost all the strength left in me. I was way too small for all that was happening to me. I have not even had enough rest and then the pain in my hand was getting worse.

The bandage in my hand with the tie that was connected to it across my neck to help fix my hand was just there. I couldn't feel it's impact anymore.

I was rushed again to the room I initially was. I was told that my temperature was really high and they had to dip towel into a bowl of water to wipe my body severally. 

I later woke up still tired but much fine and the headache had gone but I was hungry. They rushed to get bean cake and pap, though it's one of the food I don't like but I was too hungry to start being picky.

I was wondering if I hadn't missed any part of my father's encounter which he was sharing with us before I passed out. I asked my uncle and he told me I haven't because my dad too has been praying since I passed out that God should fix the error and forgive all of us. I was quite at rest.

"Can I at least see him and know how he is doing?" I cried out. "How about my mother?" I asked.

"Your mom has woken up we thank God. Though she can't remember anything for now, but she will" my uncle answered with all confidence. "Doctor Joe has been helpful too. He is trying his best" he added.

My mother woke up but could hardly remember anything. She couldn't place anyone's face. She didn't know where she was anymore or what has brought her down there.

I cried even more, knowing that my mother's memory has been affected through the shock from the accident or rather the news of dad's death. My faith was very little and I was almost losing hope.

After the meal, everyone moved to my father's room to hear what he has to say more. He was happy to know I was fine but I could see pain on his face as he knew his reaction and action was what landed all of us in an unknown town and a small hospital like this. Infact, generally in this mess.

The doctor entered almost immediately we got to my father's room and he suggested that we let him rest. He added that the more he rested, the quicker the healing process will be and the earlier we leave for home.

"And let me add that, Lamid and Hassan gave me and the other doctor a tough time, even the other doctor couldn't go after he had signed out" Doctor Joe said.

I was curious. I wanted to know how the matter was resolved since I eavesdropped on every single word that was being said from the entrance where I stayed when everything was going on before I passed out.

"We requested for how much what got spoilt was. It wasn't an amount that worth the shoutings and early morning trouble" The doctor was saying when my uncle interrupted "They said it's 5000 naira. Can you imagine?" my uncle interrupted. 

"So because of 5k, ordinary 5k! They came to threaten us?" I thought.

Well, as much as the money seemed small to us, it wasn't to them. It was a big deal to those guys and that was all they needed to let us be and let peace reign. And peace reigned knowing fully well we aren't owing them any longer.

"I paid them off so we could focus on what next and so my other colleague could go home to his family" the doctor concluded.

For our car that was stuck in the mud, we were told they had to look for a towing van. The chain that held our car and the towing van together got broken at a point and they had to spend more hours trying to look for an alternative. Finally, they got help and pulled the car out but because of safety, they couldn't leave it there along the road. Leaving it by the roadside was going to be a bad idea because guys can go there to start stealing the various parts one after another.

Someone suggested they take it to the security house where we could come to claim it when we are ready and that was exactly what they did. Though we were told it has gone bad beyond repairs and I had my doubts if dad would still want to take the car back. 

I remembered every time that dad will always say in our prayers that God should upgrade our level and give us a new car. Maybe this is the time that God will compensate the family with another car. Who knows?

"Thank you so much sir, God bless you real good, we don't know how to thank you enough, for paying off the boys, it was so thoughtful of you and..." my father was saying all this in a tone so low that you'll hardly hear him if you don't stay close by.

"... and thank God for everything, it's nothing too serious." The doctor cut in but before he walked out to attend to some other pressing issues, he gave us some assurance.

"The only thing I can say about your wife's condition is this. Her case isn't totally exceptional but if you believe in the power of prayer and miracle, she will soon be back to her feet" he said as he headed out of the room.

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and he shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." I quoted the scriptures.

We held on to the promises of God in Jeremiah 29:11-13. We believe that the God who made ways in the sea will also perform another miracle. He is still in the business of answering prayers.

"I believe and I love your faith, all will be well" the doctor said as be took his leave.

"How are you feeling now dad?" I asked and he smiled. I was wondering if what I said what was caused him to smile or if he was just trying to be strong for all of us.

"I am fine my dear, I'm getting better, aside the pain I still feel in my body but I will be fine" he said amidst smile.

"What will you take? the bean cake and pap is still remaining" my aunt asked

"Nothing, I'm not hungry" my dad responded 

"No, you're hungry. Please manage to take something even if it's small, you need it ooo" she persuaded.

"But I don't have the appetite for food" my dad was just so adamant.

My uncle persuaded him even more to at least take something so, he will have strength. He reminded him he needs food since he's taking medication. He eventually agreed and started eating.

"I will need to go home to at least put their minds at rest" one of our neighbours said.

The two of them(our neighbours) that where left are married men, one stays at the house before ours and the other at the house after ours in that order and we have become best of neighbours and they've even proven it more by staying with us in the hospital at such a time as this. The journey from the town we were back to our house was about 3 hours and 30 minutes. 

"Thank you very much Mr Olatade, may we not hear bad news like this again ooo, greetings to everyone and tell them we are fine" my dad expressed his gratitude and wished him goodbye and Mr Olatade took his leave, leaving Mr Abbey, my uncle and his wife. 

"Please tell my wife that I am fine too, I will soon join them" Mr Abbey said as he bid Mr Olatade goodbye.

My dad finished his food and rested a little.

"So, where did I stop about the encounter?" my father asked.

What happened next?

Watch out for the next episode.

TANGLED Episode 6

Episode 6.

"We no go gree, we no go gree" this words or should I say song was what we kept hearing from the lobby.

When we checked the time, it was already few minutes to 7am and we were wondering what was going on.

We were thinking if that's how they behave in that town since it's a small one and also not too exposed. But on a second thought this is a hospital and at 7am for that matter. Something must have gone wrong.

I personally don't think they came to see a patient neither does it seem they brought in a patient.

Different things were running through my mind and obviously, everyone was curious too.

Our neighbour and uncle Jude assisted my dad back from the toilet and helped him get on the bed. Everyone was ready to listen to his story. Above all, we wanted to know what scaled him through another chance.

My head started banging again and the pain in my hand was gradually getting unbearable. The fact that I stayed awake all night has resulted to the headache and has increased the pain in my hand.

"Do you realise that this is a hospital and this kind of noise is not allowed here at all" we heard the doctor speaking to the people at the lobby..

"We no dey here for talk, na our money we wan collect" a young dark man said in his deep voice. 

"Which money? What exactly is the problem here?" The doctor was confused. He had no idea of what the young man was talking about. 

"My name na Hassan and my brother here, his name na Lamid" the Hassan looked like the eldest and he looked so huge and fearless.

"Okay, can you make whatever you want to say snappy because my signing out is less than 10 minutes as the other doctor will resume by 7am. What exactly is the problem Mr Hassan and Mr erm... erm..."

"Lamid sir" the younger one replied to help the doctor remember his name.

"Mr Lamid, thank you. So tell me, what money? You and who?" The doctor added.

"Our father has a farmland very close to the roadside and it's a very big one, we have Cashew trees, Mango, Orange, Pawpaw, Plantain and...." Lamid was interrupted abruptly by the doctor. 

"Can you go straight to the point Mr Lamid, we don't have all day and I have to leave here soon" Doctor said interrupting him. 

I noticed that Lamid speaks fluently compared to Hassan that is finding it hard to express himself. He also looks calm tho he talks slowly as if he is thinking while talking.

"We have Cassava, Coco yam, Yam and many more. That's where our parents get the money to sponsor us. Although, I am a secondary school graduate and I'm preparing for my tertiary exam while my elder brother here, couldn't go to school per say. He chose to face the farming business full time" Lamid said calmly.

"I have heard all this wonderful profile, I'm yet to get why you are here this early or is your brother sick?" The doctor asked to know what exactly the problem was and how he may be of help.

"Na you dey sick you hear, na you dey sick no be me" Hassan said angrily because he felt the doctor was actually insulting him.

"Okay, I'm sorry, can I actually know what you are both talking about now?" The doctor asked. 

"So we heard a man and his family was brought here from the accident that happened yesterday noon or evening" Lamid hasn't landed when the doctor cuts him again.

"Oh! are you related to them in any way or what exactly is the problem?" the doctor was running out of patience already.

"Make una let us die before una bury us, na you dey ask question, na you still dey answer am" Hassan shouted.

"The accident affected our crops and we were told they brought them here for treatment, we would love to tell them how much they are paying for damages" Lamid concluded. 

"Seriously! Listen to yourselves, just listen to yourselves, how insensitive! The accident that almost took their lives, only God had saved them, if not..." doctor checks his time.

"If not wetin? If not wetin na? That wan no concern us, we no go gree, we no go gree" Hassan kept shouting.

"But how are you sure these people survived?" The doctor asked them. "Meanwhile, my time is up like I told you earlier and I need to go sign out" he concluded.

"If they die, na you go pay... na you" Hassan interrupted. Just then Doctor Joe came in.

"Doctor Joe, thank God you are here, good morning" the doctor shifted his attention to Doctor Joe who was taking over from him.

"Good morning Doc. What's going on here? I've been hearing voices since I stepped into the main entrance. What's the problem?" doctor Joe asked.

"Na our money we wan collect, we no wan hear talk" Hassan said.

Doctor Joe was confused for a minute and you could see it well spelt on his face. He too wanted to know what's going on and what the issue about money was at least to clear his confusion.

"Doctor, doctor" a shout came from one of the wards and this left everyone more confused.

The two doctors rushed out and Hassan and Lamid ran after them.

What happened next?

Watch out for it in the next episode