Today, I rolled out of bed, feeling a bit sleepy but ready to tackle the day. Following my usual routine, I took a quick, cold shower, dressed up in a lively outfit and headed out. The morning was chilly and serene, with quiet streets and a lack of usual sounds—no birds singing, fewer cars honking, and no hurried footsteps rushing to catch the bus for work. Blame it on the festive season; it had the city in a bit of a hush.

At the bus stop, I waited for a bus that seemed to be taking its sweet time. Eventually, an empty one pulled up, a bit unusual for 6:30 a.m. Usually, buses are packed at this hour. I got on, and after a few minutes, the bus filled up with a mix of scents-cheap and not-so-cheap perfumes, a bit of sweat, and a touch of dust. The air became a bit confusing for my nose, not to mention the burst of colors inside that could puzzle even a chameleon. The journey to Nairobi Central Business District started, and I quickly realized it wasn’t going to be a smooth ride. My seatmate, an elderly man in rather unkempt clothes, had a mouth odor that defied explanation, making strange sounds as if battling with mucus. It was a bit of a rough thirty minutes, but surprisingly, it didn’t dampen my Christmas spirit.

I’m not one to go crazy over Christmas, but this time, I’m oddly excited. Maybe because, for once, I’ll spend the entire Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year wherever I fancy—maybe at home, any of my mother’s houses, or even some nice but not expensive spot, definitely not at work. Speaking of work, all my past independent Christmases were spent on the job, and I have to admit, it wasn’t thrilling. Imagine working while others enjoy their last bites of chicken or sips of cold coke or Singleton whiskey. We all have to work hard to earn a living, right?

Enough about me; what about your Christmas plans? I recall my campus buddy, Jojo. She was a sweetheart-polite, soft-spoken, and caring. She was  short, very light, almost radiant, and just beautifully light. Jojo loved Christmas and would start counting down the days to the next one right after 26th December at midnight. She believed Christmas is the birthday of Christ. Bible readers, is it really?

Now, let’s imagine Christmas in our African setting-a time when the air carries the lively beat of traditional drums and the aroma of delicious local dishes. Picture vibrant markets adorned with colorful fabrics and bustling with people eager to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. In this festive season, communities come together in a dance of unity, sharing laughter, stories, and the joy that Christmas brings.

In our African Christmas, imagine children playing in the red African soil, their laughter echoing through the air as they create handmade decorations from natural materials. Families gather under the shade of age-old baobab trees, sharing meals prepared with love and care, featuring local delicacies that make the occasion uniquely African.

As we approach this special time, let’s not forget the spirit of Ubuntu-the essence of togetherness and shared humanity. In our diverse cultures and traditions, Christmas becomes a wonderful clothe knitted with the threads of unity, respect, and appreciation for one another.

So, what’s Christmas like for you in our African setup? Do you wish it lasted longer, or is a short visit enough? Is it just another day on the calendar, or does it bring a unique flavor? Why all the joy? I’m not complaining; in fact, I like it. The communal countdown, the excitement—it’s a day worth celebrating. As we gear up for the festivities, let’s have some fun. Invite everyone you can think of, visit all the places you want to, have those crazy yet fulfilling reunions. And to Jesus Christ, if you’re listening, happy early birthday! How many candles will be on the cake this year?

@okelododdychitchats

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In the middle of this engaging world of communication, words aren’t just tools; they’re like powerful arrows, each part adding its own touch. As we explore the dance, we come across bitterness – a lingering taste that sticks around like an unwelcome after-dinner vibe, reminding us of the emotional conflicts words can bring. Quick and transformative, these words can change how we feel, making a dance from the warm hug of love to the chilly vibes of not-so-nice thoughts.

But, within the very nature of words, there’s a mysterious uncertainty, a veil open to different interpretations. Misunderstandings, like sneaky shadows, weave themselves into what we meant to say, messing up the delicate connection and leaving a bit of a mess in our relationships.

In this talk dance, where words play the roles of both dancers and storytellers, the mix of feelings becomes a painting made with the colors of understanding and sometimes mix-ups. Imagine words as nimble dancers, moving smoothly through the detailed steps of our feelings. Love gives us a cozy hug, while not-so-nice words make a kind of jarring dance. Words are like choreographers, guiding us through how we feel.

But, in this engaging dance, words also wear a mysterious cloak. Like a dance that can trip us up, people interpret words in different ways, and things get a bit confusing. It’s like a tricky balance between being clear and feeling a bit lost.

As we chat in our everyday dance, let’s understand that words can be a bit complex. Each word is like a stroke on the palette of communication, adding to how we connect. By knowing how words work, we can chat more smoothly, building better connections and avoiding the bumps that might mess up our relationships.

In the big chat room of life, where words move like both poets and regular folks, we’re part of a chat dance that shapes how we connect. Through the twists and turns of understanding, this chat dance is like an art show, creating a picture of how we get each other or sometimes get a bit mixed up. So, let’s enjoy the chat dance, seeing how words can be nice and sometimes a bit tricky but always a part of how we talk and connect with each other.

@okelododdychitchats.

In each day’s passing, I discover reasons to step back,
A quiet wish to go away, to fade into the background.
Your words tell a story of hurt and anger, hidden in what you say,
No love shines through, just a script that’s lost its gentle way.

When you talk about him, it’s more than just liking or thinking he’s great,
There’s a deep love, a feeling that’s hard to articulate.
I’m left wondering why I’m here, what’s the point of my stay,
Thinking of leaving, letting you find happiness your own way.

I don’t want to be a barrier, holding you back,
So, I contemplate saying goodbye, keeping my love on the track.
There was a time when love was easy, a simple stream,
But now, it’s become a painful dream.

As we part ways, let the memories stay,
A reminder of what was, but couldn’t find its way.
In the midst of our goodbye, I hope you find peace,
As I step into tomorrow, seeking a love that won’t cease.
Goodbye…

@okelododdychitchats

Imagine strolling through the village streets at dusk, a time when darkness engulfs the surroundings, and our quaint village lacks the comfort of streetlights and fancy shops. Instead, it’s adorned with ominous bushes resonating with the eerie cries of starved insects, potholes deep enough to serve as pools for newborns, and a darkness that conjures up scenes rivaling the suspense of a Tanzanian epic film, Shumileta. Those paths, more haunting than a ghost-infested house at night, evoke a childhood fear that’s etched in our memories.

Now, fast forward to the present, where the fear we experience isn’t confined to the spooky paths of our village but permeates every aspect of life. I’ve come to realize that, much like that childhood fear, life itself carries a touch of fear in every step we take. It’s not external threats that I fear, but fear itself – that lingering uncertainty that accompanies every decision, like a specter lurking in the shadows.

Before embarking on any endeavor, we grapple with the fear of the unknown, a fear that stealthily sabotages our potential for success. The haunting question of “what will happen next ?” becomes a formidable barrier, hindering progress and achievement. Personally, the fear of failure has led me to abandon aspirations prematurely, paralyzed by the anticipation of undesirable outcomes. It’s a self-imposed obstacle, a barrier that prevents us from discovering what could be on the other side.

Yet, overcoming this fear is crucial. I’ve realized that confidence is the key to pursuing our dreams. It’s better to start and face the outcome, even if it means encountering failure, than to be immobilized by fear and remain in the dark about our true capabilities. The struggle to move forward echoes the childhood hesitation on those ominous paths, where legs falter but perseverance prevails.

The fear doesn’t stop at personal pursuits; it extends its grasp into the intricate realm of relationships. The fear of being hurt, of betrayal, hinders us from loving wholeheartedly. In a world where loyalty is often disregarded, the scars of betrayal linger, making it challenging to invest fully in love. The prevalence of cheating in contemporary relationships adds an extra layer of complexity, sowing seeds of doubt and eroding trust.

These challenges, whether experienced firsthand or observed in the tales of others, create a reluctance to give our all in love. It’s a fear that shadows the potential beauty of genuine connection, leaving us guarded and hesitant. Overcoming this fear in relationships becomes a testament to resilience, a decision to love despite the haunting echoes of past disappointments.

In drawing the curtains on this exploration, life unfolds as a perpetual journey through dimly lit paths and intricate relationships, each step wrapped in the pervasive embrace of fear. Yet, as we navigate through these shadows, embracing the unknown transforms from a courageous act into a transformative endeavor, akin to venturing into the darkness with an unwavering spirit.

To truly conquer the fears that threaten to hold us back, we must acknowledge that fear extends beyond the visible, permeating the intangible spaces of our psyche. It is in these concealed realms that our true strength is discovered. Thus, we embark on this journey not merely to conquer fears but to unveil the brilliance that awaits beyond the shadows – a brilliance that radiates from the resilience, growth, and unwavering courage cultivated in the face of fear’s multifaceted challenges.

@okelododdychitchats

In the captivating dance of yearning, your absence orchestrates a crescendo of desire within me. Each passing moment magnifies the echo of your presence, a melodic composition that resonates with profound emotion.

I ache for the tender caress of your fingertips, a sensory masterpiece that stands the fur on my hands at attention, akin to soldiers in immaculate formation. It’s a touch that transcends the ordinary, forging a connection that echoes with depth.

The allure of your kiss unfolds like a narrative, commencing with a gentle peck on my forehead and culminating in a profound and boundless exchange on my lips. My hands, like skilled artisans, embrace the contours of your well-shaped waist, crafting an intimate masterpiece.

A shared breath, warm and cool in its duality, breathes life into the canvas of my face, illuminating the dark pigments of my cheeks. It’s a breath that not only revives but paints our shared moments with a palette of tenderness.

In the embrace where our bodies synchronize as one, there’s a yearning for unity that surpasses the physical. Every meeting of skin is a convergence, a testament to the artistry of connection.

As we gaze upon our reflections, marveling at the divine craftsmanship that paints our hues in perfect opposition, the question lingers like an unsolved riddle. What divine brushstroke did God use to etch our uniqueness, ensuring that even thorough washing can’t wash away the vibrancy of our colors?

Our mirrored glances, adorned with fulfillment, radiate happiness and joy, creating a shared gaze that transcends mere acknowledgment. It’s a glance that whispers of contentment in the gallery of our shared existence.

Pillow talks unfold like a dialogue of soft innocence, your voice a lullaby that serenades my senses, akin to the tender cadence of a baby’s cooing. These moments weave a tapestry of intimacy, threads of connection binding us closer.

The gaze we exchange is a ballet of beauty, innocence, and seduction. It’s a look that defies simple description, an intricate dance of emotions that speaks volumes in its subtlety.

And in the solitudes of your voice, the endearing term “love” becomes a melody that resonates through the chambers of my heart. Each utterance is a sweet refrain, a reminder of the symphony that unfolds when our souls harmonize.

In your absence, these yearnings become a narrative, a testament to the profound beauty that resides in the simplicity of our shared moments.

@okelododdychitchats

I proudly embrace my Luo identity, marked by initiation—a testament to the intricate fabric of my cultural journey. While circumcision is an age-old rite of passage for some tribes, not mine, my uniqueness shines through the preservation of my six lower teeth, challenging conventional norms. Does this deviation diminish my Luo essence? The tradition of extracting six lower teeth appears antiquated, while circumcision, thought to have health benefits, is said to reduce HIV risk by 60 percent. The question lingers: Is circumcision a fading tradition or a lasting shield against affliction? I yearn for enlightenment in this captivating dance of tradition and health.

*****

*****

In the rhythmic dance between cherished Luo traditions and the sweeping Western influences,
I find myself intricately navigating the rich mosaic of my identity, embodying the essence of “I am Luo.”
At the right side of my father’s homestead, a symbolic “simba” takes shape,
A familial stronghold where the whispers of ancient customs seamlessly intertwine with the comforts of the modern.

Clasping the homestead gate, my hand meeting the main door’s call,
A chorus of echoes fills the air—an artful fusion where traditional norms harmonize with contemporary comforts.
Within the sanctuary of my bedroom, I assume the role of a lookout man with unwavering pride,
Positioned at the edge of the bed, next to the door, embodying courage and guardianship in a visual symphony.

Essentially, I see myself as a pillar of guidance, protection, and provision for my Luo family,
Resolutely rejecting any role that veers into aggression, embracing a more noble and expansive essence.
As a Luo, I carefully sift through the layers of our cultural narrative, discerning the toxic threads,
Rejecting practices like sleeping with the departed, an idea that my sensibilities simply cannot endure.

The notion of marrying a brother’s widow starkly contrasts with my deeply held Luo beliefs,
These misguided aberrations threaten to tarnish the otherwise noble motif that defines my Luo identity.
A fervent defender of our Luo community’s honor, I stand tall as a sentinel,
Vocalizing my commitment against unfounded allegations, a passionate guardian of our Luo collective identity.

While my love for Luo tribe and community is profound and unwavering,
I resist the gravitational pull of groupthink, standing firm in my Luo individuality.
Assertively navigating the currents of decision-making with a sense of Luo empowerment,
I am not a mere echo but a vividly painted Luo soul, contributing to the symphony of Luo identity in a uniquely authentic Luo melody.

@okelododdychitchats

In moonlit dreams, Adhiambo dear,
Your absence whispers, drawing near.
Stars reminisce in the night’s embrace,
Yet, your laughter’s echo, time can’t erase.

Through the canvas of time and space,
I long for the warmth of your sweet grace.
In the cadence of silence, I confess,
Every heartbeat echoes your name, no less.

Your essence lingers in each gentle breeze,
A melody of longing, carried with ease.
I miss you like the ocean craves the shore,
Adhiambo, my love, forevermore.

In the gallery of memories, vivid and true,
Painted in hues of love, a portrait of you.
Distance may linger, but love persists,
In the heart’s gallery, where eternity exists.

@okelododdychitchats

In the ballet of qualities that spin beneath her existence, she stands as a masterpiece, a mosaic woven with threads of unparalleled beauty, wisdom, and understanding. Her physicality is a canvas where beauty finds its home, defined and embraced in every curve, every glance.

In the corridors of intellect, she navigates with the grace of a modern-day Solomon, each word a pearl of wisdom strung on the necklace of her eloquence. Her understanding, a gentle current that flows effortlessly, enveloping those around her in a warmth that transcends spoken language.

Love emanates from her like an unceasing river, reaching the very core of those fortunate enough to be embraced by its currents. She doesn’t just express love; she embodies it, making you feel not just acknowledged but wholly accepted in the sanctuary of her affections.

A go-getter, she charts her course through legal avenues, a trailblazer in the pursuit of her goals. She’s not just a dreamer but a diligent architect of her destiny, making ends meet with a tenacity that leaves an indelible mark.

As a culinary artist, she wields her prowess in the kitchen like a sorceress, concocting flavors that transcend the ordinary. Yet, her culinary talents extend beyond the confines of the kitchen, encompassing the art of nurturing, not just her man, but also herself and the sacred space she calls home.

Respect is the currency she trades in, and her interactions with the collective community are a testament to the reverence she imparts. In her presence, respect is not demanded; it is willingly given, a natural response to the authenticity that defines her character.

Easily likeable, she becomes the magnetic force in any room, drawing hearts towards her like moths to a gentle flame. Her allure lies not just in her external charms but in the richness of her soul, a mosaic of virtues that elevates her to a realm beyond ordinary.

In her, all virtues converge, creating a harmonious symphony that resonates with a question that lingers in awe: What else could one possibly ask for, when everything is harmoniously encapsulated under the roof of her being?

@okelododdychitchats

From the very beginning, wrapped in the warmth of love and surrounded by affectionate kisses, life begins its journey. As childhood joy gives way to the stern lessons of community judgments and discipline, the narrative takes a turn. In the carefree days of playful antics, bones are broken, and the repercussions of late-night adventures are felt. The teenage years arrive, bringing physical changes and the discovery of adult preferences. Yet, amidst these transformations, the question echoes: what’s the next act in this unfolding story?

Post-school, life unfolds a series of choices – marriage, starting a family, or embarking on the daunting job hunt. The allure of quick wealth through shady deals lurks in the background. The persistent question persists: what’s the next chapter in this evolving drama?

With the security of a job comes financial stability and a multitude of possibilities. Choices abound – pursue love, revel in singlehood, build a home, or extend support to parents. Once again, the query surfaces: what’s the next move on this life chessboard?

As the years progress and children age, thoughts shift to the prospect of grandchildren and the blissful days of retirement. The fear of death looms, prompting contemplation about what lies beyond the final curtain. What awaits us in the great unknown?

And then, the ultimate mystery: what unfolds after death? A heartfelt plea to God for guidance through the enigma of the afterlife. The persistent inquiry resonates through the ages: what else awaits us in the vast unknown?

@okelododdychitchats

In the whispers of time, they talk about our generation,
Painting a picture of us as a bit off, morally.
We dance to the beat of societal pressures,
But not in doing shady stuff, just feeling lost.
It’s like a dark place, even darker than coal.

But think about this for a moment—
Why go down this confusing path when there are other options?
I’m from this time, and let me tell you,
It’s not like it used to be.
Remember when finishing school meant a good job and a comfy life?
Now, it’s more like finding out life’s not what you were told.
Sixteen years in school, and all I got is a ticket to being broke.

So, they do what they do for the money,
And I’m not judging. It’s their life, you know?
At the end of the day, the results matter,
As long as they’re not taking from us.

They dive into TikTok and memes,
Doing their thing in a way that’s just us—the meme generation.
In all the jokes and funny stuff, there’s comfort,
A break from the loudness of real life.
So, let them do their thing, let us do our thing.
Hold off on the judgments,
Because in this big picture of life, our stories
Will unfold in their own time.

In the face of all the opinions out there,
We stand strong, waving the flag of our generation.
We find comfort in the short-lived joy of memes.
Don’t be too quick to judge,
Because as we journey through life,
We’re just looking for a laugh that echoes
Through the hallways of our shared experiences.

@okelododdychitchats