My young sister, Achom Grace Christine, is currently living out of the country and because of COVID-19 was not able to travel back home to Uganda when our father, papa muzei Ejakait Engineer George William Obityo Owaraga, was taken critically ill and eventually rested. Achom was also not able to come home for papa’s Aipuduno ceremony.

On Friday, 12th November 2020, Achom sent me via WhatsApp a version of the worship song “Goodness of God,” with the caption:

“My morning song, I hope it cheers you up as well.”

Achom Grace Christine

Some of the lyrics of “Goodness of God are:

“I love you lord. For your mercy never failed me. All my days I’ve been held in your hand. From the moment that I wake up, until I lay my head, I will sing of the goodness of God.

All my life you have been faithful. All my life you have been so so good. With every breathe that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God.

I love your voice. For you have led me through the fire. In the darkest night you are close like no other. I’ve known you as a father. I’ve known you as a friend. And I have lived in the goodness of God…

Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me…”

Bethel Music & Jenn Johnson

Achom and I in our youth at Lido Beach, Entebbe

When she sent me “Goodness of God,” she was unaware that that was the day I went to Lubaga Hospital to collect papa’s “Short Death Certificate” and the supporting documentation from his doctors, explaining his death.

So, while I did get emotional and throughout Saturday I was in locked down, I did feel so comforted and close to my sister even though she is miles away. Her strength and her faith have become among the wind beneath my wings. And so I soldier on.

And yes, today, I thought I had gotten the necessary strength to inventory papa’s medication, gadgets and other materials we used for his healthcare, but I have been overcome by emotion and so I have suspended the inventory for today.

One day at a time. I will get there and I will soon complete the inventory and in his name we will donate his healthcare gadgets, materials and medication to others needy. One of papa’s doctors has already agreed to help us make sure the right patients receive the donation. May papa’s soul continue to rest in power.

Thank you all for standing with me. I will rise