(Katherine’s words)
The last leg of the trip had us in Accra, Ghana.
For several years now, the Junior Art Club, a youth arts organization and recipient of WMF support, has organized an annual “Theater Spectacular” – a sort of talent show and exhibition for youth involved in JAC. Jordyn and I were excited to meet the kids, watch their performances, and see what kind of creativity and art the program had inspired.
We were not disappointed. The performers vibrated with energy, enthusiasm, and creativity. They also demonstrated flexibility and humor when we suffered a power outage and the entire sound system was disabled. A few kids did stand up, others told stories. The show must go on (and it did)…
…with clever costumes…
…and well-rehearsed, immaculately choreographed dance moves…
After a full afternoon of singing, dancing, poetry and spoken word, the winners were selected…
performers in 2008 Theater Spectacular
and prizes were handed out.
The day was incredibly fun and ended with the performer’s younger fans storming the stage and showing off moves that I fully expect to see in future Theater Spectatulars.
Beyond the fun, it was really gratifying to see the non-quantitative impact of WMF’s support. Arts education and humanities in general are oftentimes pitted against disciplines like Biology or Mathematics and deemed irrelevant. In all fairness to the non-humanities, the creativity, community building, and leadership that arise from artistic endeavors like Theater Spectacular are, if not easily quantifiable, then certainly valuable and enriching to those involved.
Hi
It has been a long time now. This is a story I WROTE WHICH I WANT TO share with you:
Introduction
Day after day, week after week, month after month, John toiled the earth to reap its fruits and make an honest living. It wasn’t the kind of life he had imagined for himself in his younger days. How could he, a member of the Mensah family have a faded fortune? John was living a life of regret. He was thirty seven years old and had just found out he was infected with the very popular HIV/AIDS virus. He couldn’t place out where he had gotten it from. It may have been the prostitutes or the needles and blades he shared with his pals in university of even at the barbers’ but he was kind of sure it came from the sleeping around. He had lived a very terrible life in his youth. One he was very ashamed of and had been refusing to share with anyone until now that is was too late to make amends. Was this his punishment? One would have thought he had faced enough consequences but this was just the height. He had been warned many times but was too stubborn, arrogant and proud to listen to anyone. He was out to change the world. He had joined a reach out with the other HIV/AIDS patients to spread the news and not the virus. Now as he was staring at his environment like he was in it for the first time. There were things he hadn’t noticed before. One was how stuffy and hot it was even with all the fans and air conditioners. He was next up after Ms. Asare. Her story wasn’t half as bad as his. It wasn’t even close. She had gotten infected playing with her infected uncle’s needles when she was 6years old. Her parents had provided for her the best treatments so hers hadn’t advanced to AIDS yet. Well John had it already. He had neglected getting tested in for years but eventually did when the government made it compulsory. He was soon standing before the unfamiliar faces of those around him, patiently waiting for him to SPIT his story. Most of them had had their say but his was harder to tell and way different.
***
‘So I just talk, right? Tell it like a story from the beginning?’ He said.
‘If you could please’ says a voice from a speaker, which no doubt belonged to one of the big boys of the programs. ‘It helps us help others in your kind of situation and it also helps you move on with life Sir’.
He felt as if all eyes were piercing into his skin like there where places they had to be and he wasting time.
Hello everyone, my name is John Mensah. I am a victim of the HIV/AIDS virus and this is my story…
Chapter 1
Everything in life they say always begins with one step, one step either in the right direction or the wrong direction but with a focus and goal in mind. To be successful and be the best you can be, that is his story. Great imaginations and no focus at all, John Mensah Jnr. was not to blame with his semi-educated but extra rich parents, what could they have had to pass on to him other than just money, money and more money. Being an only child, his parents saw to it that he was happy and comfortable always. A little too much if you ask me. He was spoilt rotten and had his way no matter what with his parents and any other person they had control over, even when he was at fault. If only they had been able to say no to him, I’m sure they would have. They had tried for so long to have a child and it was a joy that when their prayers were answered, God gave them a bouncing baby boy. Ohene John Mensah Snr. and Madam Rosalinda Mensah had finally become parents. It was a miracle, a memorable day, the most memorable of their lives. John Jnr. was born on the 2nd of June 1970. The whole town remembered this day because there was a big celebration for the next week.
Soon enough, when John Jnr. was old able to walk and say a couple of words, he joined his mates in a day care near his home and very close to his mother’s supermarket. He moved on to nursery school, primary and it wasn’t long before secondary school was over and he gained admission into the university. His parents were extremely proud of their jewel for he was the first in the family to attend the higher institution.
In August of 1989, John is officially an undergraduate at the University of Ghana, Legon, leaving his very saddened parents back home in Kumasi. He is set out to make his parents proud. He promised to visit home one weekend out of every month like his parents had asked him to. On his first day in school, he bumped into Kweku at the bank when he went to pay his fees and open his account. They had known each other in secondary school but were not really friends.
‘Kweku, what time are you going to the library today?’
‘ I don’t know John, why do you ask? I hope you haven’t made other plans oh. Remember we need to study for our lectures tomorrow.’
‘ Oh! I know. I just want to take a little nap and I don’t want to be disturbed for the next 2 hours that is why I asked so I would know whether are not to bother sleeping.’
‘ Oh! But John you should have said that. I’ll wait for you. It’s just a little past 6pm so is it okay if I wake you up at 8? We can study till the library closes at 11? John is that okay?’
‘ Ok. Wake me up then. Thanks.’
‘ No problem. Ehen, John there is something I would like to talk to you about. You see, my mum hasn’t been able to come up with my allowance money yet so I was wondering if it’s possible for you to please lend me some money till mine gets in. I promise to pay back as soon as I can. If you can’t, it’s ok. I’ll manage somehow.’
‘Is that it? Money? There is plenty. I’ll give you no problem. Just let me reach the bank tomorrow ok? But on one condition, you let me ask my parents to help your poor mum so she doesn’t have to work so had anymore.’
‘Ay John, are you out of your mind? My mother will not even take likely the fact that I have told you she couldn’t raise it. She refused me working because I’m her college boy but it is hard and she won’t admit it. I think I might start searching for a job soon. One that isn’t almost as demanding as my school work. I should make a C.V, maybe work as a…’
‘Look here Kweku, all what you are saying is nonsense. What do you mean by get a job? I’m going ahead to call my parents and that is final. They can’t turn me down. It’s a token of our friendship. Take it now my friend. And tell your mum not to worry herself and she can take as much time as she needs to send it.’
‘But what will I be doing with all that extra money when it comes?’
‘Ah! Is it you my friend talking like this? You amaze me. You can start saving it for your poor mother now. Start getting ready to take over the responsibilities of your household once we graduate. It will be worth a lot more by then and it can last you I’m sure till you get a good job at that bank you want. But Kweku na wa for you oh. Are you not the same again? Why are you making me think for you?’
‘John, you de be oh. The only problem is that I can’t help but feel guilty. Like I’m stealing from my mum and it’s a very uncomfortable feeling oh. I don’t know if I can do it.’
‘Oh you this boy, you are very stupid oh. You just said your mama will be angry that you have told me she couldn’t raise your money. So whose fault is it? You are doing her a favour by not worrying her for it and also by saving to take care of your younger ones. Ok let me ask you, do you have a savings account? Do you? Have you thought of how long it might possibly take for you to get a job when you graduate? Or you want to say you assumed money comes on the graduation day? My boy, my father is in the government and every day I hear him talking about how many people are getting thrown out of one company or the other or even how these companies are shutting down due to bankruptcy. Kweku, this is Ghana oh. Nothing is guaranteed. Honestly, I think this is the best thing you can do for your mum. She might be a tad bit upset when she finds out that you took money from someone else but she’ll come around to the fact in no time at all. Maybe after you pay school fees or buy her a new Woodin material or what is it she prefers?’
‘ I think you have actually convinced me into doing this John. I can just imagine the look of relief on mama’s face when I graduate and then the bigger smile when I tell her earlier than I should that she can retire because I’m a real man now. John thanks so much. I really appreciate this mehn. You are a real true friend and I thank you.’
‘ Kweku why are you thanking me? You are my brother and it is the least I can do my friend. Besides you can wait till I get the money before you start kissing my feet. Relax and let me sleep so we can go to the library. What’s the time now sef?’
‘ I’m sorry my friend but it is quarter to 8 and I don’t advice you to bother going to sleep anymore. Get up and let us go before it’s too late. Oh Kweku so this was your plan eh, to keep me awake with your personal issues? I must say I’m very disappointed in you for taking my nap time away from me.’
‘ Guy, ok sorry but you talk too much. Get up and let us go abeg. I don’t want to miss all the good sits or get there and the library is full. Let us go.’
‘ Stop raising your voice ah, I’m coming. What is your hurry sef?’
‘ Ahh! Did you not just hear me say I don’t want to get there and it is already fully occupied? Is it sleep that is making you deaf now?’
‘ I wasn’t sleeping so I guess not. I think it is actually hunger. Have you eaten?’
John what is the matter with you? I’ll leave you and go to this library oh. I know that is your plan today.’
‘ How can you say that Kweku? I am hungry. I haven’t eaten but you have that’s why you are forming very serious.’
‘ John I’ll see you later, I’m off.’
9pm
John is getting ready to catch up with his roommate at the library when he hears a knock at the door and is he is surprised to see a young lady who introduces herself as Katy and he is even more surprised when she says it is him she has come to talk to. John had never really given an extra thought to girls because he had heard their stories and was very scared of them but this one had gotten his attention proper. Katy was slender and tall maybe 5ft8inches and he had the smoothest skin John had ever seen. He knew he wasn’t bad looking because he had the girls in his secondary school throwing themselves at him all the time but he felt very ugly standing face-to-face with this goddess that had found her way into his heart in the twinkle of an eye.
‘John, are you ok? Did I get you at a bad time? If you want me to leave, it’s ok. I can come back another time. I just wanted to say hi because we are in the same class and I saw you come in here earlier on but I’m slightly frightened by your roommate that’s why I had to wait for him to leave the room first. I’m very sorry if I came in uninvited. Bye.’
‘Oh wait. I mean don’t go yet. Thank you for coming. You are already here so why waste your energy?’
‘Are you sure?’
‘Yeah please have a seat and make yourself comfortable. There anything you would like? I have juice, biscuit…’
‘Thanks, it is quite nice of you to offer but I really shouldn’t be staying long and you look like you were on your way out.’
‘Oh shoot! I was on my way to meet Kweku at the library but I guess it is too late now.’
‘Who is Kweku?’
‘My roommate, the very one you are afraid of.’
‘Oh I’m so sorry for delaying you. I’ll see you in class tomorrow.’
‘Please seat down. There is no problem and my roommate is not going to be back from the library till about 11 so we can talk. That is why you came isn’t it?’
‘Oh yes, I came to talk, you know just to introduce myself really. You look like a very nice person and I need as many course mates in my life as possible. Need all the help I can get with Chemistry.’
‘You have problems in chemistry? It’s my most interesting course ever so I can help you. I’m very good at it if I can say so myself.’
‘Are you serious? You are a life saver. Thank you so much.’
‘You are welcome….’
‘Nice room by the way, very well equipped. I see our parents are trying for us.’
John’s room had everything you could want in a room, from fan-fridge-air condition-rug-television, name it and it was there.
‘Thanks Katy, my parents try their best to keep me from lacking the good things of life.’
‘Well John thank you for being very nice and I hope this new found friendship lasts as long as possible but I have to run now. Have to join my friends for a study group meeting that I’m almost late for. It was really nice to meet you and thanks again.’
‘You are very welcome Katy. It was super kind of you to come around. Goodbye now and sleep well.’
‘John, you know something, I feel bad for making you miss your study time at the library. You can come to mine tonight if you want. It’s really helpful and it beats going to the library any day. You know what they say, two heads are better than one.’
Sounds good, I think I’ll come. I think that is what I need right now. And to be very honest with you, I don’t really like the library.’
‘Alright then pack your bags and we will be off.’
‘I’ll be done in a minute.’
Midnight
Kweku is worried sick about his roommate. John didn’t show up at the library and he left his phone in the room making it impossible to reach him. Kweku had come back to the room expecting to see his friend sleeping or at least studying but absence was a real shocker for him. Where could John have gone to and why hadn’t he by this time? After sometime, he realised John’s school bag was missing which meant his roommate was studying somewhere. He tried calming down but imagination wasn’t making it easy for him. Had John been on his way to the library but gotten attacked? The fact that John was unreachable made it even harder to relax. All this worry for nothing because John was in Katy’s room being stupid. They had started the study group alright but it didn’t last for up to an hour. John was puzzled and was about to take his leave when Katy asked him to spend some more time with her and he agreed. He was given an alcoholic drink but instead of him to turn it down and say he didn’t drink; he downed the whole bottle and laughed with them, Katy and her friends, Sena and Yaw. Before long, he was offered a cigarette which he took like a dummy all in the name of trying to impress Katy. They laughed at him in his drunken state and he laughed with them not knowing exactly why but because by then, even the most serious news would have been funny to him.
9am
Sooner than expected, he had snoozed off on Katy’s bed and was awaken by the sunlight peeking in through the half open window and the sound of the shower running. It took him about 10mins fully recollect his incidents of the previous night. By then Sena and Yaw were no longer in site so he figured it to be Katy in the shower. He quietly picked up his bag and rushed over to his room. He was already thinking of a lie to tell Kweku but then he looked at the time and realised that his roommate would probably be in class which automatically meant he was missing his. Kweku must have been worried sick last night. He didn’t remember when or how long he had been asleep for but he was so tired and as soon as his head hit his pillow, he was gone again. He wasn’t sure if he was ready to tell Kweku the truth about his night and he had to call his parents for money.
1pm
Hello mummy, how are you? Yes I’m fine thank you. How is daddy? How about business too? Ok, I miss you to and I’ll try and come home next weekend but school is very busy now and I need all the time on my hands to study. Yes do you remember Kweku, my friend, the one who I told you is my roommate here and was in secondary school with me? Yes that same one. His mum is the owner of that stall near the church. Well, they have been having some serious financial problems and I was wondering if you and daddy might be able to help them by giving Kweku pocket money monthly. Ok please talk to daddy for me. You and I know that Kweku is a very good boy and he won’t mess up. Ok thanks ma. I’ll be waiting for your call. Bye-bye. Kweku still wasn’t back.
Chapter 2
5pm
Kweku just arrives from class and the cafeteria and sees John cuddled in the blanket looking sick. He was still in his clothes from the day before which meant he hadn’t showered so whatever was wrong with him was very serious. It wasn’t till 7pm that John finally staggered out of bed into the bathroom. Kweku wanted desperately to know where his friend had been and once John steeped back into the room, he attacked him.
‘Where have you been? I was worried sick. Why didn’t you take your phone with you? Are you ok? You look really sick. Don’t you think you should go to the hospital or is that where you were? I didn’t check there because you looked very fine to me before I left. Sorry. What drugs did they give you? Have you eaten? What would you like to…’
‘Look here Kweku, you are asking too many questions and I don’t have strength to answer you right now. I wasn’t at the clinic, where I’ve been isn’t any of your business and for Christ’s sake, I’m not ill. I just need to rest proper ok? Please leave me alone for now. Thank you and by the way, there is 100ghana cedis under your pillow from my parents. It’s your allowance for the month.’
‘What? Did you say a 100ghana cedis? That is double my monthly allowance. What am I going to use it all for? Wow. Thank you so much John. I’m sorry for disturbing you. I’m leaving the room now. Please make sure you get proper rest. Sorry again. See you later. Wow. Please thank your parents for me. God will surely bless them. I can’t believe this. I never thought it would be this much and monthly? Wow…’
‘Kweku please leave the room now. We can celebrate when I wake up but please go.’
‘Oh John I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to disturb you. It’s just that…’
‘I’ve heard oh please get out away. I’ll see you later.’
‘Bye.’
2 weeks later
‘John, aren’t you going to class today? It’s been 2 weeks already don’t you think you are resting too much? Are you sure you are well? You have changed towards your academics and it worries me very much or do you think because you have a high average it can’t drop?’
‘Kweku, what’s your problem, are you the one sending me to school or paying my school fees? Don’t you know I was out till late last night at the club and I need rest? Besides, there’s nothing that old man can teach me that I don’t already know’.
‘So that is where you have been spending all your time now John? I thought so with you coming into the room at odd hours reeking of smoke and alcohol. You are right. I don’t pay your fees or send you to school but don’t think you are taking a wrong step? I’m not arguing with you. I agree you are intelligent but John many have travelled this familiar road and it would lead you nowhere. Think about it and reason like the person your parents brought you up as. I’m off to class. I’ll see you when I get back.’
John starts talking to himself when Kweku lives, ‘what kind of roommate is this that can’t mind his own business and leave me to rest in peace ehn?! Next semester, I must kick him out or no, I will just leave him alone. Pack all my things and leave him alone. Ahah! His own is just too much. Every day, it’s one book after another without any bit of fun. Didn’t they teach him that all work and no play makes you dull? Hmm. I’ll leave him abeg. I can move to that house with Katy, Sena and Yaw if they don’t mind. I’ll talk to them about it tonight at the club. Why didn’t I even think of that before? They are higher primates with a social life not this monkey of a roommate. I only pity his next roommate. (Phone rings)!!!
‘Hello! Kweku what is the problem?’
‘Surprise test boy. Start running to class right away’.
‘Ah! You know say I never baff. Write for me!
‘John, do you know what you are asking me to do? That is very risky. I can’t cheat’.
‘Oh guy. I de beg. Please now. I can’t make it. Please. I’ll text you my index num. Thanks.’
‘Ok, I’ll try, but this must never happen again. Agreed?’
‘Charley, you are the best. Thanks a lot.’
This became a perpetual habit. John and Kweku were in second year already but had drifted apart more and more each day. John had lost it totally with his new friends and poor Kweku wasn’t able to get through to him anymore which unfortunately resulted into more and more problems between them. He had even stopped giving the money that his parents sent to Kweku because he needed it now to buy booze and king size for his new found best friends. He had been captivated by their kind of lifestyle and was secretly in love with Katy so he refused to turn down their company knowing very well that he was going gaga. He would party all night with them, consuming more and more alcohol and perfecting his smoking telling himself he could stop at anytime and it was all for show, to get Katy to fancy him. Every night before going to bed, he would convince himself that he wasn’t going to miss class the following day but somehow, he always did. Then he started telling himself he would go back to his library days but he never did as well. His new friends always had some new activity for him to partake in and he never wanted to disappoint. They were his buddies after all and buddies were always there for each other right? John started spending his pocket money on his friends so they could respect him and Katy could see him with love. Soon he was nicknamed Johnny Cash for he never let them touch their wallets anytime he was in their company and trust them not to mind one bit. It went on like this from what started as days before months and then finally, years. John had stopped going to class but had started paying off both boys and girls to sign, write tests and do assignments for him. He was only ever seen by all on examination days and he never quite stayed up to 1 hour in the hall because he had people teach him. You see, John’s average didn’t drop like you would have imagined. Instead, it continued to increase and increase every year. There soon came a time when the money his dad sent both he and Kweku wasn’t enough to pay his course mates and pay all his workers as he called those who did his school work for him. He talked to his dad about it but his dad had just been retired from is government office and getting money wasn’t as easy as he had expected. His mum was the new bread winner and she didn’t have enough money to spare. John knew he could have just started going to class and stopped hanging out with his friends as often as before but he didn’t. He started off by selling some of the things in his new room. He sent Kweku packing so he had it all to himself. He sold his fridge first then he sold his microwave and other stuffs. His friends never came to his room anyways so they were never going to find out and if they did and asked him, he would say that he threw them away because they had faults but hadn’t gotten around to buying new ones.
9:30am
Everyone is either in class or still asleep. The hostel cleaners don’t resume till 10. John has exactly 29mins to run into at least two rooms and get any money or valuables to sell before going to meet his friends. His dad had refused to send him money again and he kept on telling himself that he had no other choice but to steal and besides, he would only when he was broke. His accounts were blood red including his saving account. John was broke all the time, which meant stealing was his new hobby. He prayed everyday not to get caught and he was lucky. When stealing was no longer paying off and became too risky because everyone was out to get the culprit, he took up the internet fraud also known as 419.
In a fake French accent, ‘Yes, hello is that Mr Brown of Valentine Oil Refinery? Oh good. I am Mr Poirot. We talked already about you sending some money to my Ghanaian bank account so I can help you build that filling station. Oh ok good then. I’ll email the number to you now. It’s always a pleasure Sir. Thank you and goodbye.’
Next Day
John received a letter from his H.O.D and was in a state of shock. How did this happen to him? There was no way he was expelled for examination malpractice. He hadn’t been caught so somebody must have reported him. He couldn’t tell his friends just yet. He didn’t know what to do. It was already holiday time and he had been asked not to return for the next semester. He set out to Kumasi, in a rage, ready to attack his parents for not sending him. Once at home, his dad had travelled to return the following day so he thought it best to pour out his anger on his stressed out mum. She just sat there and cried while he screamed his lungs at her. He left the house like a stampede to a bar and got really drunk. When he got back home hours later, his mum having being worried about his whereabouts ran to give him a hug but got really angry when she realised he was drunk.
‘What sort of child are you? Is this how I trained you? So this is what you learnt in the university when you should be striving hard to take over your father’s businesses. You are a huge disgrace to this household. You are very lucky your father is not home. He would have…’
‘What stupid businesses? The very same that can’t provide enough for me to live a good life in school? The same that…’
‘Shut up you spoilt boy. Are you a child? Don’t you know that the economy fluctuates? This is not how you were brought up so what is the problem? I never would have ex…’
Before she could finish her sentence, Johnny pushed her out of his way to go to his room but she lost her balance and hit her head on the floor. She screamed and begged him to help her up but he refused.
‘Die there you wretched old witch. I’m sure you had something to do with your being able to bear just one child.’
By this time, neighbours had heard all the noise and some had come in to see Madam Amah soaked in her own blood on the floor. She was rushed to the hospital where she finally gave up the ghost. Nana Kojo Mensah was called by a neighbour and given the news. He rushed home ready to kill only to find his son missing with all his money and late wife’s jewellery.
Chapter 3
When the neighbours’ rushed into the house and lifted him mum from the floor, John saw the blood and all the alcohol in his system vanished. There was no way he wanted to be in that house the moment his dad came back or even when his mum was out of the hospital. What really had he done to her? He just prayed it was nothing serious. He ran into his room, picked up his still unpacked bag then headed to his parents’ room, cleared his mum’s jewellery boxes and stole what money he saw. The only place he could think of going was Sena’s house although it was about 2 hours away from Kumasi.
‘Hello, Sena, it’s me Johnny.’
‘I know now how far?’
‘Mehn, Sena there is a big problem. I can’t talk on the phone. Can I come to yours?’
‘Yeah you can. I’m around. See you soon.’
‘Alright thanks mehn. See you.’
He told his friend the whole story and he was given a room to stay. Yaw didn’t live so far away from Sena so they are all together again, living the so called good life.
One day when Sena and Yaw were alone at home, Yaw opens his mind about the situation.
‘How sensible is it for you to shelter John? One who murdered his own mother?’
‘Wait, what do you mean murdered?’
‘You mean you didn’t know? That push took her life. She died at the hospital some days ago. It’s been all over the news.’
‘I didn’t know that and I don’t think John did also. He left the house in a hurry.’
‘Really? But that’s by the way, where will he be when we go back to school now that he is no longer a student? If you ask me, I think you are making a big mistake.’
‘Boy, cool down. You underestimate me and that really hurts my feelings. You see, now that he is very vulnerable, he is willing to do anything we ask him to. Remember our boy is stupid and you know me now, I always have a plan. Come let me tell you.’
‘Guy that is a wicked plan but I love it. You are the best of all masters my friend.’
1 week later
John is seating on Sena’s couching watching TV when his mother’s obituary pops up. ‘Jesus Christ! Did I do this? Oh my god, I killed my own mother? What am I going to do? I definitely can’t go back to that house now. I’m wanted for crying out loud, wanted for murder. Oh Jesus, help me now. I need your help more than ever. Why is all this happening to me? To think that the Eve who brought me into this is no longer here and I’m all alone just as before. What am I going to do now? Lord, please help me. How do I tell Sena and Yaw? Will I still be allowed to live here? Where will I go? I have no money and I can’t get a job.’
He was still pacing up and down when it suddenly clicked. He could continue his fraud and leave the country once he had saved enough. That seemed like a good enough idea until Sena and Yaw told him what they had in mind for him. He had heard them talking a few days ago about an operation and he concluded they had to be robbers. They were saying things like, ‘the guard’ and ‘the weapons’. He had been pretending to b asleep when they came in so he was sure he wasn’t part of the plan until…
‘So where does John come in?’
‘He is going to knock at the door and act like he was being chased.’
‘Good, after all he has no other choice. He plays or leaves my house. Look at how he is just lounging on my couch feeling at home. He doesn’t know we are only his friends for money.’
‘Is that all? You’ve forgotten murderer and thief. Didn’t you say he stole from his father?’
‘Yes oh. He already has the stealing skills so this shouldn’t be a problem. In fact, this job is now a must for him, he either does this or we turn him over to the police.’
John was dumbfounded. He had thought he was their friend but now it was all for what he could offer them and now that he had no money or place to stay, he was being bullied and manipulated into their secret lifestyles. The kind he had hoped was going to be in his past forever.
‘John! John! Wake up and listen to me.’
‘Hey, Yaw what is it?’
‘Are you awake now?’
‘Yes so what is it?’
‘You see, Sena and I have been thinking and we think it’s time for you to know something.’
‘Ok. I’m listening.’
‘We are robbers and you are officially the newest member of our gang. Let’s go get you dressed for the occasion.’
‘Robbers, you mean like armed thieves?’
‘Don’t play dumb with me boy, we know you heard our conversation, now move.’
‘Ok.’
‘Wear all black but you can’t cover your face. We want you to look like the victim.’
‘But I’m a wanted person; I can’t go without covering my face.’
‘Will you shut up and do as you are told? Don’t make me help you because I don’t…’
‘Ok then, I’ll do it. I’m sorry.’
‘We are visiting Kofi Richard Owusu in Tema today. His boy informed us that he returned from England this morning with a suitcase of £20,000 which he plans on sending to the bank first thing tomorrow morning but we are not going to let him do that, are we?’
‘Hell no’.
‘We are going to have a little chat with him to give us this money and if he doesn’t, we blast his head off. Questions anyone? John?’
‘Yes, Yaw, just one. I’m sorry but when you say blast his head off, do you mean that metaphorically or are you serious?’ John is confused and embarrassed when Sena and Yaw laugh out at him.
‘Of course not silly, we just wanted to see your reaction and trust me, it was worth it. You look like you just saw a ghost dude. We don’t kill. We collect and we go.’
‘ If we see something else that we like, the victim’s wife or daughter, we enter and then we are gone. If the victim proves stubborn, we can just break his leg or threaten him by putting a bullet through the wall or ceiling but that usually alerts neighbours, who go ahead to alert the police so it’s not a very likely threat anymore. Do you understand, John?’
‘Yes, yes I do.’
‘ Good because we leave for Tema in an hour.
‘Shoot his leg John.’
‘But you said..’
‘Forget what I said, shoot him and let us get out of here.’
‘Sena, I can’t do it.’
‘Shoot before I shoot you myself.’
The police are already around. Sena and Yaw escaped but John is caught and charged for the degrees of murder, possession of a weapon and theft. His sentence was 10 years with hard labour.
Epilogue
‘Thank you very much sir. You did a wonderful job. Your story is definitely one that touches the heart. Well done.’ The crowd starts cheering as he walks off the stage back to his seat beside Ms. Asare. He can’t believe he finally let it all out. He had just settled down still smiling to himself when a hand rested on his shoulder. He turned around to face the most beautiful woman he had ever seen in his life.
‘Well done Johnny cash.’ He had not been called that in years and was surprised by how much pain it brought him now that he was a new man.
‘Thank you ma’am but I would prefer if you just call me John if you don’t mind.’
‘Oh my days. Johnny, don’t tell me you don’t remember me. It’s me, Katy.’
‘Who? Katy?’ She suddenly looked familiar. She had changed a lot in the 15 years since he last saw her or anyone of them. She had left them in their 3rd level and had transferred to Boston University. It was so good to see her.
‘Yes, Katy. The same girl who got you into this mess, John I’m really sorry. I was young and stupid and was ready to do anything for protection from the boys so when he asked me to get you in the crew, I couldn’t say no.’
‘Hmm. Sena and Yaw. Those boys made a mess out of my life. They sent me to prison too you know. I wasn’t part of that operation.’
‘I know. I heard your story. Look John I’m so sorry. If I knew things like that were in stalk for you, I would have told you to be careful.’
‘It’s ok. It is all in the past now.’
‘John, I know this might sound a little strange but I thought of you over the years and I was very happy when I saw your name on the list and…’
‘Why are you here by the way?’
‘Here like this program? I’m the founder John. I started reaching out to people in all parts of Ghana when I returned from the states last year. I’m also infected so it is the least I can do.’
You have the virus too? How?
I’m not sure if you knew this but the reason I left for America was because Sena and Yaw raped me and threatened to kill me if I told you because they were scared of what you might have done to them.’
‘What could a small boy like possibly have done to them?’
‘John, we all knew you were in love with me and you know how violent love can make a person.’
‘You knew? Wow. I thought that was a secret.’
‘Then remind me not to tell you any of my secrets then. You suck at secrecy. So why didn’t you ever say anything to me?’
‘Katy this is very uncomfortable. I think I still need some time to digest the fact that you knew about that.’
‘Alright then so I guess you won’t mind adding food to the list. Come on! Let’s go get lunch.’
THE END
Introduction
Day after day, week after week, month after month, John toiled the earth to reap its fruits and make an honest living. It wasn’t the kind of life he had imagined for himself in his younger days. How could he, a member of the Mensah family have a faded fortune? John was living a life of regret. He was thirty seven years old and had just found out he was infected with the very popular HIV/AIDS virus. He couldn’t place out where he had gotten it from. It may have been the prostitutes or the needles and blades he shared with his pals in university of even at the barbers’ but he was kind of sure it came from the sleeping around. He had lived a very terrible life in his youth. One he was very ashamed of and had been refusing to share with anyone until now that is was too late to make amends. Was this his punishment? One would have thought he had faced enough consequences but this was just the height. He had been warned many times but was too stubborn, arrogant and proud to listen to anyone. He was out to change the world. He had joined a reach out with the other HIV/AIDS patients to spread the news and not the virus. Now as he was staring at his environment like he was in it for the first time. There were things he hadn’t noticed before. One was how stuffy and hot it was even with all the fans and air conditioners. He was next up after Ms. Asare. Her story wasn’t half as bad as his. It wasn’t even close. She had gotten infected playing with her infected uncle’s needles when she was 6years old. Her parents had provided for her the best treatments so hers hadn’t advanced to AIDS yet. Well John had it already. He had neglected getting tested in for years but eventually did when the government made it compulsory. He was soon standing before the unfamiliar faces of those around him, patiently waiting for him to SPIT his story. Most of them had had their say but his was harder to tell and way different.
***
‘So I just talk, right? Tell it like a story from the beginning?’ He said.
‘If you could please’ says a voice from a speaker, which no doubt belonged to one of the big boys of the programs. ‘It helps us help others in your kind of situation and it also helps you move on with life Sir’.
He felt as if all eyes were piercing into his skin like there where places they had to be and he wasting time.
Hello everyone, my name is John Mensah. I am a victim of the HIV/AIDS virus and this is my story…
Chapter 1
Everything in life they say always begins with one step, one step either in the right direction or the wrong direction but with a focus and goal in mind. To be successful and be the best you can be, that is his story. Great imaginations and no focus at all, John Mensah Jnr. was not to blame with his semi-educated but extra rich parents, what could they have had to pass on to him other than just money, money and more money. Being an only child, his parents saw to it that he was happy and comfortable always. A little too much if you ask me. He was spoilt rotten and had his way no matter what with his parents and any other person they had control over, even when he was at fault. If only they had been able to say no to him, I’m sure they would have. They had tried for so long to have a child and it was a joy that when their prayers were answered, God gave them a bouncing baby boy. Ohene John Mensah Snr. and Madam Rosalinda Mensah had finally become parents. It was a miracle, a memorable day, the most memorable of their lives. John Jnr. was born on the 2nd of June 1970. The whole town remembered this day because there was a big celebration for the next week.
Soon enough, when John Jnr. was old able to walk and say a couple of words, he joined his mates in a day care near his home and very close to his mother’s supermarket. He moved on to nursery school, primary and it wasn’t long before secondary school was over and he gained admission into the university. His parents were extremely proud of their jewel for he was the first in the family to attend the higher institution.
In August of 1989, John is officially an undergraduate at the University of Ghana, Legon, leaving his very saddened parents back home in Kumasi. He is set out to make his parents proud. He promised to visit home one weekend out of every month like his parents had asked him to. On his first day in school, he bumped into Kweku at the bank when he went to pay his fees and open his account. They had known each other in secondary school but were not really friends.
‘Kweku, what time are you going to the library today?’
‘ I don’t know John, why do you ask? I hope you haven’t made other plans oh. Remember we need to study for our lectures tomorrow.’
‘ Oh! I know. I just want to take a little nap and I don’t want to be disturbed for the next 2 hours that is why I asked so I would know whether are not to bother sleeping.’
‘ Oh! But John you should have said that. I’ll wait for you. It’s just a little past 6pm so is it okay if I wake you up at 8? We can study till the library closes at 11? John is that okay?’
‘ Ok. Wake me up then. Thanks.’
‘ No problem. Ehen, John there is something I would like to talk to you about. You see, my mum hasn’t been able to come up with my allowance money yet so I was wondering if it’s possible for you to please lend me some money till mine gets in. I promise to pay back as soon as I can. If you can’t, it’s ok. I’ll manage somehow.’
‘Is that it? Money? There is plenty. I’ll give you no problem. Just let me reach the bank tomorrow ok? But on one condition, you let me ask my parents to help your poor mum so she doesn’t have to work so had anymore.’
‘Ay John, are you out of your mind? My mother will not even take likely the fact that I have told you she couldn’t raise it. She refused me working because I’m her college boy but it is hard and she won’t admit it. I think I might start searching for a job soon. One that isn’t almost as demanding as my school work. I should make a C.V, maybe work as a…’
‘Look here Kweku, all what you are saying is nonsense. What do you mean by get a job? I’m going ahead to call my parents and that is final. They can’t turn me down. It’s a token of our friendship. Take it now my friend. And tell your mum not to worry herself and she can take as much time as she needs to send it.’
‘But what will I be doing with all that extra money when it comes?’
‘Ah! Is it you my friend talking like this? You amaze me. You can start saving it for your poor mother now. Start getting ready to take over the responsibilities of your household once we graduate. It will be worth a lot more by then and it can last you I’m sure till you get a good job at that bank you want. But Kweku na wa for you oh. Are you not the same again? Why are you making me think for you?’
‘John, you de be oh. The only problem is that I can’t help but feel guilty. Like I’m stealing from my mum and it’s a very uncomfortable feeling oh. I don’t know if I can do it.’
‘Oh you this boy, you are very stupid oh. You just said your mama will be angry that you have told me she couldn’t raise your money. So whose fault is it? You are doing her a favour by not worrying her for it and also by saving to take care of your younger ones. Ok let me ask you, do you have a savings account? Do you? Have you thought of how long it might possibly take for you to get a job when you graduate? Or you want to say you assumed money comes on the graduation day? My boy, my father is in the government and every day I hear him talking about how many people are getting thrown out of one company or the other or even how these companies are shutting down due to bankruptcy. Kweku, this is Ghana oh. Nothing is guaranteed. Honestly, I think this is the best thing you can do for your mum. She might be a tad bit upset when she finds out that you took money from someone else but she’ll come around to the fact in no time at all. Maybe after you pay school fees or buy her a new Woodin material or what is it she prefers?’
‘ I think you have actually convinced me into doing this John. I can just imagine the look of relief on mama’s face when I graduate and then the bigger smile when I tell her earlier than I should that she can retire because I’m a real man now. John thanks so much. I really appreciate this mehn. You are a real true friend and I thank you.’
‘ Kweku why are you thanking me? You are my brother and it is the least I can do my friend. Besides you can wait till I get the money before you start kissing my feet. Relax and let me sleep so we can go to the library. What’s the time now sef?’
‘ I’m sorry my friend but it is quarter to 8 and I don’t advice you to bother going to sleep anymore. Get up and let us go before it’s too late. Oh Kweku so this was your plan eh, to keep me awake with your personal issues? I must say I’m very disappointed in you for taking my nap time away from me.’
‘ Guy, ok sorry but you talk too much. Get up and let us go abeg. I don’t want to miss all the good sits or get there and the library is full. Let us go.’
‘ Stop raising your voice ah, I’m coming. What is your hurry sef?’
‘ Ahh! Did you not just hear me say I don’t want to get there and it is already fully occupied? Is it sleep that is making you deaf now?’
‘ I wasn’t sleeping so I guess not. I think it is actually hunger. Have you eaten?’
John what is the matter with you? I’ll leave you and go to this library oh. I know that is your plan today.’
‘ How can you say that Kweku? I am hungry. I haven’t eaten but you have that’s why you are forming very serious.’
‘ John I’ll see you later, I’m off.’
9pm
John is getting ready to catch up with his roommate at the library when he hears a knock at the door and is he is surprised to see a young lady who introduces herself as Katy and he is even more surprised when she says it is him she has come to talk to. John had never really given an extra thought to girls because he had heard their stories and was very scared of them but this one had gotten his attention proper. Katy was slender and tall maybe 5ft8inches and he had the smoothest skin John had ever seen. He knew he wasn’t bad looking because he had the girls in his secondary school throwing themselves at him all the time but he felt very ugly standing face-to-face with this goddess that had found her way into his heart in the twinkle of an eye.
‘John, are you ok? Did I get you at a bad time? If you want me to leave, it’s ok. I can come back another time. I just wanted to say hi because we are in the same class and I saw you come in here earlier on but I’m slightly frightened by your roommate that’s why I had to wait for him to leave the room first. I’m very sorry if I came in uninvited. Bye.’
‘Oh wait. I mean don’t go yet. Thank you for coming. You are already here so why waste your energy?’
‘Are you sure?’
‘Yeah please have a seat and make yourself comfortable. There anything you would like? I have juice, biscuit…’
‘Thanks, it is quite nice of you to offer but I really shouldn’t be staying long and you look like you were on your way out.’
‘Oh shoot! I was on my way to meet Kweku at the library but I guess it is too late now.’
‘Who is Kweku?’
‘My roommate, the very one you are afraid of.’
‘Oh I’m so sorry for delaying you. I’ll see you in class tomorrow.’
‘Please seat down. There is no problem and my roommate is not going to be back from the library till about 11 so we can talk. That is why you came isn’t it?’
‘Oh yes, I came to talk, you know just to introduce myself really. You look like a very nice person and I need as many course mates in my life as possible. Need all the help I can get with Chemistry.’
‘You have problems in chemistry? It’s my most interesting course ever so I can help you. I’m very good at it if I can say so myself.’
‘Are you serious? You are a life saver. Thank you so much.’
‘You are welcome….’
‘Nice room by the way, very well equipped. I see our parents are trying for us.’
John’s room had everything you could want in a room, from fan-fridge-air condition-rug-television, name it and it was there.
‘Thanks Katy, my parents try their best to keep me from lacking the good things of life.’
‘Well John thank you for being very nice and I hope this new found friendship lasts as long as possible but I have to run now. Have to join my friends for a study group meeting that I’m almost late for. It was really nice to meet you and thanks again.’
‘You are very welcome Katy. It was super kind of you to come around. Goodbye now and sleep well.’
‘John, you know something, I feel bad for making you miss your study time at the library. You can come to mine tonight if you want. It’s really helpful and it beats going to the library any day. You know what they say, two heads are better than one.’
Sounds good, I think I’ll come. I think that is what I need right now. And to be very honest with you, I don’t really like the library.’
‘Alright then pack your bags and we will be off.’
‘I’ll be done in a minute.’
Midnight
Kweku is worried sick about his roommate. John didn’t show up at the library and he left his phone in the room making it impossible to reach him. Kweku had come back to the room expecting to see his friend sleeping or at least studying but absence was a real shocker for him. Where could John have gone to and why hadn’t he by this time? After sometime, he realised John’s school bag was missing which meant his roommate was studying somewhere. He tried calming down but imagination wasn’t making it easy for him. Had John been on his way to the library but gotten attacked? The fact that John was unreachable made it even harder to relax. All this worry for nothing because John was in Katy’s room being stupid. They had started the study group alright but it didn’t last for up to an hour. John was puzzled and was about to take his leave when Katy asked him to spend some more time with her and he agreed. He was given an alcoholic drink but instead of him to turn it down and say he didn’t drink; he downed the whole bottle and laughed with them, Katy and her friends, Sena and Yaw. Before long, he was offered a cigarette which he took like a dummy all in the name of trying to impress Katy. They laughed at him in his drunken state and he laughed with them not knowing exactly why but because by then, even the most serious news would have been funny to him.
9am
Sooner than expected, he had snoozed off on Katy’s bed and was awaken by the sunlight peeking in through the half open window and the sound of the shower running. It took him about 10mins fully recollect his incidents of the previous night. By then Sena and Yaw were no longer in site so he figured it to be Katy in the shower. He quietly picked up his bag and rushed over to his room. He was already thinking of a lie to tell Kweku but then he looked at the time and realised that his roommate would probably be in class which automatically meant he was missing his. Kweku must have been worried sick last night. He didn’t remember when or how long he had been asleep for but he was so tired and as soon as his head hit his pillow, he was gone again. He wasn’t sure if he was ready to tell Kweku the truth about his night and he had to call his parents for money.
1pm
Hello mummy, how are you? Yes I’m fine thank you. How is daddy? How about business too? Ok, I miss you to and I’ll try and come home next weekend but school is very busy now and I need all the time on my hands to study. Yes do you remember Kweku, my friend, the one who I told you is my roommate here and was in secondary school with me? Yes that same one. His mum is the owner of that stall near the church. Well, they have been having some serious financial problems and I was wondering if you and daddy might be able to help them by giving Kweku pocket money monthly. Ok please talk to daddy for me. You and I know that Kweku is a very good boy and he won’t mess up. Ok thanks ma. I’ll be waiting for your call. Bye-bye. Kweku still wasn’t back.
Chapter 2
5pm
Kweku just arrives from class and the cafeteria and sees John cuddled in the blanket looking sick. He was still in his clothes from the day before which meant he hadn’t showered so whatever was wrong with him was very serious. It wasn’t till 7pm that John finally staggered out of bed into the bathroom. Kweku wanted desperately to know where his friend had been and once John steeped back into the room, he attacked him.
‘Where have you been? I was worried sick. Why didn’t you take your phone with you? Are you ok? You look really sick. Don’t you think you should go to the hospital or is that where you were? I didn’t check there because you looked very fine to me before I left. Sorry. What drugs did they give you? Have you eaten? What would you like to…’
‘Look here Kweku, you are asking too many questions and I don’t have strength to answer you right now. I wasn’t at the clinic, where I’ve been isn’t any of your business and for Christ’s sake, I’m not ill. I just need to rest proper ok? Please leave me alone for now. Thank you and by the way, there is 100ghana cedis under your pillow from my parents. It’s your allowance for the month.’
‘What? Did you say a 100ghana cedis? That is double my monthly allowance. What am I going to use it all for? Wow. Thank you so much John. I’m sorry for disturbing you. I’m leaving the room now. Please make sure you get proper rest. Sorry again. See you later. Wow. Please thank your parents for me. God will surely bless them. I can’t believe this. I never thought it would be this much and monthly? Wow…’
‘Kweku please leave the room now. We can celebrate when I wake up but please go.’
‘Oh John I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to disturb you. It’s just that…’
‘I’ve heard oh please get out away. I’ll see you later.’
‘Bye.’
2 weeks later
‘John, aren’t you going to class today? It’s been 2 weeks already don’t you think you are resting too much? Are you sure you are well? You have changed towards your academics and it worries me very much or do you think because you have a high average it can’t drop?’
‘Kweku, what’s your problem, are you the one sending me to school or paying my school fees? Don’t you know I was out till late last night at the club and I need rest? Besides, there’s nothing that old man can teach me that I don’t already know’.
‘So that is where you have been spending all your time now John? I thought so with you coming into the room at odd hours reeking of smoke and alcohol. You are right. I don’t pay your fees or send you to school but don’t think you are taking a wrong step? I’m not arguing with you. I agree you are intelligent but John many have travelled this familiar road and it would lead you nowhere. Think about it and reason like the person your parents brought you up as. I’m off to class. I’ll see you when I get back.’
John starts talking to himself when Kweku lives, ‘what kind of roommate is this that can’t mind his own business and leave me to rest in peace ehn?! Next semester, I must kick him out or no, I will just leave him alone. Pack all my things and leave him alone. Ahah! His own is just too much. Every day, it’s one book after another without any bit of fun. Didn’t they teach him that all work and no play makes you dull? Hmm. I’ll leave him abeg. I can move to that house with Katy, Sena and Yaw if they don’t mind. I’ll talk to them about it tonight at the club. Why didn’t I even think of that before? They are higher primates with a social life not this monkey of a roommate. I only pity his next roommate. (Phone rings)!!!
‘Hello! Kweku what is the problem?’
‘Surprise test boy. Start running to class right away’.
‘Ah! You know say I never baff. Write for me!
‘John, do you know what you are asking me to do? That is very risky. I can’t cheat’.
‘Oh guy. I de beg. Please now. I can’t make it. Please. I’ll text you my index num. Thanks.’
‘Ok, I’ll try, but this must never happen again. Agreed?’
‘Charley, you are the best. Thanks a lot.’
This became a perpetual habit. John and Kweku were in second year already but had drifted apart more and more each day. John had lost it totally with his new friends and poor Kweku wasn’t able to get through to him anymore which unfortunately resulted into more and more problems between them. He had even stopped giving the money that his parents sent to Kweku because he needed it now to buy booze and king size for his new found best friends. He had been captivated by their kind of lifestyle and was secretly in love with Katy so he refused to turn down their company knowing very well that he was going gaga. He would party all night with them, consuming more and more alcohol and perfecting his smoking telling himself he could stop at anytime and it was all for show, to get Katy to fancy him. Every night before going to bed, he would convince himself that he wasn’t going to miss class the following day but somehow, he always did. Then he started telling himself he would go back to his library days but he never did as well. His new friends always had some new activity for him to partake in and he never wanted to disappoint. They were his buddies after all and buddies were always there for each other right? John started spending his pocket money on his friends so they could respect him and Katy could see him with love. Soon he was nicknamed Johnny Cash for he never let them touch their wallets anytime he was in their company and trust them not to mind one bit. It went on like this from what started as days before months and then finally, years. John had stopped going to class but had started paying off both boys and girls to sign, write tests and do assignments for him. He was only ever seen by all on examination days and he never quite stayed up to 1 hour in the hall because he had people teach him. You see, John’s average didn’t drop like you would have imagined. Instead, it continued to increase and increase every year. There soon came a time when the money his dad sent both he and Kweku wasn’t enough to pay his course mates and pay all his workers as he called those who did his school work for him. He talked to his dad about it but his dad had just been retired from is government office and getting money wasn’t as easy as he had expected. His mum was the new bread winner and she didn’t have enough money to spare. John knew he could have just started going to class and stopped hanging out with his friends as often as before but he didn’t. He started off by selling some of the things in his new room. He sent Kweku packing so he had it all to himself. He sold his fridge first then he sold his microwave and other stuffs. His friends never came to his room anyways so they were never going to find out and if they did and asked him, he would say that he threw them away because they had faults but hadn’t gotten around to buying new ones.
9:30am
Everyone is either in class or still asleep. The hostel cleaners don’t resume till 10. John has exactly 29mins to run into at least two rooms and get any money or valuables to sell before going to meet his friends. His dad had refused to send him money again and he kept on telling himself that he had no other choice but to steal and besides, he would only when he was broke. His accounts were blood red including his saving account. John was broke all the time, which meant stealing was his new hobby. He prayed everyday not to get caught and he was lucky. When stealing was no longer paying off and became too risky because everyone was out to get the culprit, he took up the internet fraud also known as 419.
In a fake French accent, ‘Yes, hello is that Mr Brown of Valentine Oil Refinery? Oh good. I am Mr Poirot. We talked already about you sending some money to my Ghanaian bank account so I can help you build that filling station. Oh ok good then. I’ll email the number to you now. It’s always a pleasure Sir. Thank you and goodbye.’
Next Day
John received a letter from his H.O.D and was in a state of shock. How did this happen to him? There was no way he was expelled for examination malpractice. He hadn’t been caught so somebody must have reported him. He couldn’t tell his friends just yet. He didn’t know what to do. It was already holiday time and he had been asked not to return for the next semester. He set out to Kumasi, in a rage, ready to attack his parents for not sending him. Once at home, his dad had travelled to return the following day so he thought it best to pour out his anger on his stressed out mum. She just sat there and cried while he screamed his lungs at her. He left the house like a stampede to a bar and got really drunk. When he got back home hours later, his mum having being worried about his whereabouts ran to give him a hug but got really angry when she realised he was drunk.
‘What sort of child are you? Is this how I trained you? So this is what you learnt in the university when you should be striving hard to take over your father’s businesses. You are a huge disgrace to this household. You are very lucky your father is not home. He would have…’
‘What stupid businesses? The very same that can’t provide enough for me to live a good life in school? The same that…’
‘Shut up you spoilt boy. Are you a child? Don’t you know that the economy fluctuates? This is not how you were brought up so what is the problem? I never would have ex…’
Before she could finish her sentence, Johnny pushed her out of his way to go to his room but she lost her balance and hit her head on the floor. She screamed and begged him to help her up but he refused.
‘Die there you wretched old witch. I’m sure you had something to do with your being able to bear just one child.’
By this time, neighbours had heard all the noise and some had come in to see Madam Amah soaked in her own blood on the floor. She was rushed to the hospital where she finally gave up the ghost. Nana Kojo Mensah was called by a neighbour and given the news. He rushed home ready to kill only to find his son missing with all his money and late wife’s jewellery.
Chapter 3
When the neighbours’ rushed into the house and lifted him mum from the floor, John saw the blood and all the alcohol in his system vanished. There was no way he wanted to be in that house the moment his dad came back or even when his mum was out of the hospital. What really had he done to her? He just prayed it was nothing serious. He ran into his room, picked up his still unpacked bag then headed to his parents’ room, cleared his mum’s jewellery boxes and stole what money he saw. The only place he could think of going was Sena’s house although it was about 2 hours away from Kumasi.
‘Hello, Sena, it’s me Johnny.’
‘I know now how far?’
‘Mehn, Sena there is a big problem. I can’t talk on the phone. Can I come to yours?’
‘Yeah you can. I’m around. See you soon.’
‘Alright thanks mehn. See you.’
He told his friend the whole story and he was given a room to stay. Yaw didn’t live so far away from Sena so they are all together again, living the so called good life.
One day when Sena and Yaw were alone at home, Yaw opens his mind about the situation.
‘How sensible is it for you to shelter John? One who murdered his own mother?’
‘Wait, what do you mean murdered?’
‘You mean you didn’t know? That push took her life. She died at the hospital some days ago. It’s been all over the news.’
‘I didn’t know that and I don’t think John did also. He left the house in a hurry.’
‘Really? But that’s by the way, where will he be when we go back to school now that he is no longer a student? If you ask me, I think you are making a big mistake.’
‘Boy, cool down. You underestimate me and that really hurts my feelings. You see, now that he is very vulnerable, he is willing to do anything we ask him to. Remember our boy is stupid and you know me now, I always have a plan. Come let me tell you.’
‘Guy that is a wicked plan but I love it. You are the best of all masters my friend.’
1 week later
John is seating on Sena’s couching watching TV when his mother’s obituary pops up. ‘Jesus Christ! Did I do this? Oh my god, I killed my own mother? What am I going to do? I definitely can’t go back to that house now. I’m wanted for crying out loud, wanted for murder. Oh Jesus, help me now. I need your help more than ever. Why is all this happening to me? To think that the Eve who brought me into this is no longer here and I’m all alone just as before. What am I going to do now? Lord, please help me. How do I tell Sena and Yaw? Will I still be allowed to live here? Where will I go? I have no money and I can’t get a job.’
He was still pacing up and down when it suddenly clicked. He could continue his fraud and leave the country once he had saved enough. That seemed like a good enough idea until Sena and Yaw told him what they had in mind for him. He had heard them talking a few days ago about an operation and he concluded they had to be robbers. They were saying things like, ‘the guard’ and ‘the weapons’. He had been pretending to b asleep when they came in so he was sure he wasn’t part of the plan until…
‘So where does John come in?’
‘He is going to knock at the door and act like he was being chased.’
‘Good, after all he has no other choice. He plays or leaves my house. Look at how he is just lounging on my couch feeling at home. He doesn’t know we are only his friends for money.’
‘Is that all? You’ve forgotten murderer and thief. Didn’t you say he stole from his father?’
‘Yes oh. He already has the stealing skills so this shouldn’t be a problem. In fact, this job is now a must for him, he either does this or we turn him over to the police.’
John was dumbfounded. He had thought he was their friend but now it was all for what he could offer them and now that he had no money or place to stay, he was being bullied and manipulated into their secret lifestyles. The kind he had hoped was going to be in his past forever.
‘John! John! Wake up and listen to me.’
‘Hey, Yaw what is it?’
‘Are you awake now?’
‘Yes so what is it?’
‘You see, Sena and I have been thinking and we think it’s time for you to know something.’
‘Ok. I’m listening.’
‘We are robbers and you are officially the newest member of our gang. Let’s go get you dressed for the occasion.’
‘Robbers, you mean like armed thieves?’
‘Don’t play dumb with me boy, we know you heard our conversation, now move.’
‘Ok.’
‘Wear all black but you can’t cover your face. We want you to look like the victim.’
‘But I’m a wanted person; I can’t go without covering my face.’
‘Will you shut up and do as you are told? Don’t make me help you because I don’t…’
‘Ok then, I’ll do it. I’m sorry.’
‘We are visiting Kofi Richard Owusu in Tema today. His boy informed us that he returned from England this morning with a suitcase of £20,000 which he plans on sending to the bank first thing tomorrow morning but we are not going to let him do that, are we?’
‘Hell no’.
‘We are going to have a little chat with him to give us this money and if he doesn’t, we blast his head off. Questions anyone? John?’
‘Yes, Yaw, just one. I’m sorry but when you say blast his head off, do you mean that metaphorically or are you serious?’ John is confused and embarrassed when Sena and Yaw laugh out at him.
‘Of course not silly, we just wanted to see your reaction and trust me, it was worth it. You look like you just saw a ghost dude. We don’t kill. We collect and we go.’
‘ If we see something else that we like, the victim’s wife or daughter, we enter and then we are gone. If the victim proves stubborn, we can just break his leg or threaten him by putting a bullet through the wall or ceiling but that usually alerts neighbours, who go ahead to alert the police so it’s not a very likely threat anymore. Do you understand, John?’
‘Yes, yes I do.’
‘ Good because we leave for Tema in an hour.
‘Shoot his leg John.’
‘But you said..’
‘Forget what I said, shoot him and let us get out of here.’
‘Sena, I can’t do it.’
‘Shoot before I shoot you myself.’
The police are already around. Sena and Yaw escaped but John is caught and charged for the degrees of murder, possession of a weapon and theft. His sentence was 10 years with hard labour.
Epilogue
‘Thank you very much sir. You did a wonderful job. Your story is definitely one that touches the heart. Well done.’ The crowd starts cheering as he walks off the stage back to his seat beside Ms. Asare. He can’t believe he finally let it all out. He had just settled down still smiling to himself when a hand rested on his shoulder. He turned around to face the most beautiful woman he had ever seen in his life.
‘Well done Johnny cash.’ He had not been called that in years and was surprised by how much pain it brought him now that he was a new man.
‘Thank you ma’am but I would prefer if you just call me John if you don’t mind.’
‘Oh my days. Johnny, don’t tell me you don’t remember me. It’s me, Katy.’
‘Who? Katy?’ She suddenly looked familiar. She had changed a lot in the 15 years since he last saw her or anyone of them. She had left them in their 3rd level and had transferred to Boston University. It was so good to see her.
‘Yes, Katy. The same girl who got you into this mess, John I’m really sorry. I was young and stupid and was ready to do anything for protection from the boys so when he asked me to get you in the crew, I couldn’t say no.’
‘Hmm. Sena and Yaw. Those boys made a mess out of my life. They sent me to prison too you know. I wasn’t part of that operation.’
‘I know. I heard your story. Look John I’m so sorry. If I knew things like that were in stalk for you, I would have told you to be careful.’
‘It’s ok. It is all in the past now.’
‘John, I know this might sound a little strange but I thought of you over the years and I was very happy when I saw your name on the list and…’
‘Why are you here by the way?’
‘Here like this program? I’m the founder John. I started reaching out to people in all parts of Ghana when I returned from the states last year. I’m also infected so it is the least I can do.’
You have the virus too? How?
I’m not sure if you knew this but the reason I left for America was because Sena and Yaw raped me and threatened to kill me if I told you because they were scared of what you might have done to them.’
‘What could a small boy like possibly have done to them?’
‘John, we all knew you were in love with me and you know how violent love can make a person.’
‘You knew? Wow. I thought that was a secret.’
‘Then remind me not to tell you any of my secrets then. You suck at secrecy. So why didn’t you ever say anything to me?’
‘Katy this is very uncomfortable. I think I still need some time to digest the fact that you knew about that.’
‘Alright then so I guess you won’t mind adding food to the list. Come on! Let’s go get lunch.’
THE END