Chapter 1: A Humbling Experience

“Dad, why did you have to come to my school looking like that?” I exclaimed, overwhelmed with embarrassment. “You showed up drunk and in dirty clothes!”

“I’m also a teacher, and I came to see my child! But I also needed to collect the 20 shillings I gave you this morning,” he replied.

This incident took place eight years ago when I was still in high school. As a student leader, I felt the weight of every judgment from my peers, making any form of embarrassment feel like public mockery.

That morning is etched in my memory. I was busy preparing my breakfast—just a cup of porridge in a large plastic container. While I savored my meal, I heard my dad call out, “Phoebe, come here quickly!” I hurried, knowing I needed to be one of the first to arrive at school.

Upon entering the living room, my dad handed me a 20 shilling coin, which was about 0.007 USD. Back then, that small amount could buy four mandazies, a delicious Kenyan snack, enough to stave off hunger and serve as treats during tea and lunchtime. I thanked him and God, quickly grabbed my school bag, and said goodbye to my parents. He seemed sober that morning, and as I expressed my gratitude, he replied, “God bless you, my daughter.”

At school, it was nearly tea time, around 10 AM. Most students were outside, and I was busy collecting books from classmates for our English teacher. I had a close friend—a boy who was ahead of me—whose charm and intelligence made him popular among the girls.

As I walked toward the teachers’ office, I noticed a group of students gathered near the school fence, laughing loudly and pointing at me. Curious, I looked around and saw someone sitting behind the fence. My heart dropped as I rushed over, and to my shock, it was my father, drunk and in ragged clothes…

The world around me faded as I faced this humiliating scene. My father’s embarrassing moment at my school was forever imprinted in my mind, shaping my future in unimaginable ways.

My heart ached as I approached him; he seemed unaware of the chaos he had created. I helped him up, tears of humiliation forming in my eyes. The laughter from my classmates echoed in my ears, and my cheeks burned with shame.

“Dad, why did you come here like this?” I whispered, desperate to shield him from the judgmental stares of my peers.

With bleary eyes, he replied, “I just wanted to see you, Phoebe. I wanted to make sure you were alright.”

Tears streamed down my face as I realized that, despite his embarrassing state, my father had come to check on me. His love was evident, even if his approach was misguided.

I led him away from the school and into a quiet alley. With the help of a kind passerby, I ensured he got home safely. As I watched him stumble away, my emotions conflicted; I was angry at him for this embarrassing situation, but I was also deeply grateful for his love.

That day marked a pivotal moment in my life. It was a harsh reminder of the challenges my family faced and the sacrifices my parents made for my education. This experience ignited a fierce determination within me to succeed.

I transformed my embarrassment into a driving force. I worked harder than ever in school, engaged in extracurricular activities, and volunteered to tutor my peers. I was determined to rise above the ridicule I faced that day.

As the years went by, my dedication paid off. I achieved academic excellence and traveled to places I once thought were beyond my reach. My father’s embarrassing moment and his unspoken belief in me motivated my relentless pursuit of success.

Throughout my journey, I often thought of my dad. I knew he struggled with his own issues but always wanted the best for me. His public embarrassment became a catalyst for my determination to excel, and I owe a part of my success to him.

Today, I am a thriving entrepreneur, often visiting my parents with pride, even though my dad has passed on. I miss him and all his quirky moments. I’ve learned that everyone has their flaws and weaknesses, but it’s the love and support of family that truly counts. My father’s embarrassing moment molded me into a resilient, determined, and compassionate person, and for that, I am forever grateful. It serves as a reminder that even in the most humiliating situations, valuable lessons and opportunities for growth can emerge.

In loving memory of Tata Benitsa, continue resting in peace, Dad.

Chapter 2: Lessons Learned

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