Dear Friends,

I’m grateful that we made it to July 2020. You’ll agree the year has been stressful. I hope you’re well and keeping safe. Don’t be anxious; things will make sense soon, and we’ll live to testify.

A few hours before the new year, I made a wish to see a happy me in a peaceful world. New Year arrived with a Greek gift. While we got news of this strange virus, I lost my elder sister and several relatives. I even lost several academic and career opportunities. Then came global rioting and demonstrations caused by the killing of George Floyd in America. The world wallowed in suspicion, distrust, and economic warfare. We never had it this tough for decades. I’ve never seen anything like it.

The outbreak revealed human fallibility. We relied heavily on science. It showed that human activities harm our environment. Yes, it exposed science’s weaknesses. It revealed that many people’s love is only superficial and spoken in lip service. It uncovered how selfish, ignorant, and wicked human hearts can be. It demonstrated that governments often don’t truly care about the people. It exposed the beast—greed—in humankind. Nature recovers slowly. We can’t do much to help, but we can support its recovery.

As the world faces a pandemic that knows neither creed nor color, we need to love more and show strong faith. Love is the mother of all good things. Yes, the world can heal with love, and faith assures a better tomorrow.

July is here, and we’ll surely progress through it. Remain focused on your goals. Show compassion. Be kind. Be courteous. Forgive freely. Remember the destitute, the homeless, and those without food and clothing when you give. Pray for one another.

I have this prayer for you: The sun, the moon, and the stars will shine for your good. Divine Providence shall protect you. You shall prosper in good health and riches, even more than your expectations. My soul rejoices with you for great testimonies—happy new month.

With care,

Oke’