Reflections by Muthoni Omukhango

Did I ever tell you how I scored 3% in a Math test in high school? Well, let's say there are stories that are not worth being told. But this one, it has a happy ending.

I call it: Your Environment Shapes You

Did I ever tell you of when my Dad left my small sister Kainos in a matatu (public vehicle)? Yes. Yes. What a day to remember! And oh, before you start sharpening the pitchforks thinking he was an irresponsible father, let me set the record straight—my dad was a loving, responsible man. But even the best of us have our oops moments, and this was his.

I call this one: How to Not Forget Important Things (Like Your Child!)

Did I ever tell you about the time I was conned in Eldoret in broad daylight? Not at night, not in a dark alley, but in the bright noonday sun with all the angels watching and shaking their heads.

I call it: 𝐁𝐲 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐎𝐰𝐧 𝐋𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐖𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐲

Did I ever tell you about the mother who took drastic measures to enforce discipline in her home? You know how some of our kids, in a fit of frustration, slam their bedroom doors with the force of a WWE wrestler? Well, this particular teenage girl went a step further—she not only slammed her door but locked her mother out. True story!

I call this one: 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞𝐬

Did I ever tell you about Karimi’s neighbour’s quest for a lush green lawn? Sit for this one as I help you, as I was helped, to mind your business and live a queit life.

I call this one: The Greener Grass on the Other Side is Lots of Work or maybe, Stop Keeping Up With the Jonases

Did I ever tell you about that time we went to Charity’s house, played with her kids, and ate lunch there when I was six? Oh, it's a classic tale.

I call it:Train Up A Child.

Did I tell you about the whirlwind of grief that hit me when my father-in-law, Readon (or Fathy, as I called him), passed away last year? Well, brace yourself—not for belly-aching laughter this time, but for some honest musings from my heart.

I call it:Only the Wearer of the Shoe Knows Where It Pinches Most.

Did I ever tell you how I swore I’d never turn out like my dad or mom? Ah, youth! So full of confidence, yet so blind to reality. Let me take you on a little journey.

I call it:Life is a Full Circle.

Did I ever tell you about James, who swore that when he got married and had children, he would use the Bible, and only the Bible, as the rod of correction for his children? Well, this was until reality became real.

I call this one: Never Get Advice from Someone Who's Never Done It

Did I tell you how my 4.5kg-born son almost took me out of the life game? Well, grab a seat because this story isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a masterclass in realizing when to surrender for the greater good.

I call it: You Cannot Fit a Square Peg in a Round Hole.