Tag: love

The Shoe Shiner

I didn’t grow up sticking to one spot; I’ve got the privilege of recalling three to four places where I spent my childhood. This journey made me lose a few friends along the way, but it turned me into a social butterfly. Making friends has become my forte, and even though they’re not countless, I hold them close to my heart. This weekend, I reunited with buddies I hadn’t seen in thirteen years. Kelline, the always cheerful guy with a deep Luo accent, remembered me for my knack for cleanliness. It’s amusing to think that at the tender age of eleven, I was already a master in the art of shining shoes, making beds, styling uniforms, and harboring a soft spot for the ladies!

Yesterday, I bumped into Apopo Powel, a hilarious pal from high school. He reminded me of our shared past, especially how neat I was. The funny part was how he described everyone else getting stains of uji  on their clothes during breakfast, while I miraculously stayed in mint condition. He chuckled about my well-shined shoes and my “don’t touch” trousers. He even marveled at my impressive collection of uniforms in just my first year of high school. Quick recap: I was the shoe shiner back then, and I still know how to keep my kicks looking sharp. Hence, the title of this piece – “The Shoe Shiner.”

I’ve always known I’d leave a lasting impression, akin to a scar reminding you of how you got it. This mark I leave is meant to jog memories of the things I did.

People tend to remember me for various reasons – my pride, persuasive arguments, potential as a lawyer (I plan to pursue this), my shyness around those I hold dear, and my keen sense of style. I find joy in being remembered for positive and impactful qualities. Forget those unrelated things I mentioned earlier; I’m not here to toot my own horn. The point is, I strive to make an impact, and I love it because those close to me also try to leave a memorable mark, something you’d want to cherish if it were physically tangible.

In this era, forming relationships – not just romantic ones but strong friendships and close-knit families – is sometimes seen as old-fashioned. People give it skeptical looks, associating all relationships with potential betrayal. I get it; Gen-Z and millennials can relate. They treat marriage and reconnecting with hometown friends cautiously, fearing envy and potential harm. The village WiFi supposedly has better bandwidth; you can’t hide from it. I don’t blame them; caution is not fear.

Yet, there are still those who believe in robust relationships and hold them dear. What about you? What do you think your close ones remember you for – good or bad? If you’re skeptical about relationships, what caused the trauma? Is there a way to mend it? Let’s have a chat, my friends. We could even explore topics like “Relationships and Betrayal” or “Friendships and Betrayal.” What’s your take?

@okelododdychitchats

I Like it When

I like it when our eyes meet, that unexplainable chemistry sparking a connection that words struggle to capture.

I like it when I hug you, feeling the embrace envelop us in a cocoon of warmth, a comforting haven.

I like it when I hold your well-shaped waist, fingers tracing the curves that fit perfectly within my grasp.

I like it when your fingers surround my wide neck, each touch creating a melody that resonates in the air.

I like it when you walk in that short dress, admiring your beautiful legs like a beautiful piece of art painted with elegance and grace.

I like it when you cook your favorite meal, now a shared delight, the aroma telling stories of memories we create together.

I like it when you’re settled, calling me ‘love’ with that beautiful voice, each word a sweet note in our exquisite duet.

I like it when you kiss me, your tender lips finding mine, creating a dance of passion that lingers in the air.

I like it when you smile, illuminating every dark corner with love, a beacon of joy in the landscape of our shared moments.

I like it when you’re happy, sharing in your joy, a contagious happiness that becomes the rhythm of our days.

I like it when I miss you, the longing a reflection of the depth of our connection.

I like it when thoughts are all about you, a constant orbit around the gravitational pull of your presence.

I like it when I call you baby, a term of endearment that echoes the tenderness in my heart.

I like it when I sleep next to you, holding your tiny waist, our dreams twisting into a beautiful story.

I like it when I wake up to your morning smile and that good morning kiss, a perfect start to our shared day.

I like having you, just like I like this piece. Hope you do too, as it mirrors the depth of my feelings for you.

@okelododdychitchats