Sunset at dawn for a promising child

Two years ago, my son, Muhammadu Inuwa died, after living with us for less than eight years, by the grace of the Almighty Allah. I now understand why many bereaved parents experience guilt for outliving their child. He was born on Wednesday, September 1, 2004 in Minna, Niger State, he was welcomed by the whole family, especially his mother Amina B. Muhammad. He was fondly called Abba because he was named after his grandfather. And being the last born in family of five (three girls, two boys), he was naturally loved by all.
He was enrolled at the NECO Staff School, in Minna, earlier than many of his peers because of the great promise he showed. He was a fast learner who would hardly forget what he was told. But as fate would have it, this child who showed a lot of potentials very early in life, was never meant to enjoy long life.
Abba died on Monday, January 30, 2012, after complaining of headache. According to medical doctors, Abba died of cerebral malaria, which is said to be the most severe neurological complication of infection with Plasmodium falciparum, a leading cause of childhood neuro-disability and death in the sub-Saharan Africa.
His death reminded me of the fact that death is no respecter of age. Once your time is up, it will come visiting. But still, it is easier for people to accept – or at least understand – the death of an elderly person more than that of a child.
Abba, within the period was with us, warmed his way into our hearts with his good manners, humour and patience. Indeed, he is the most patient among the children. He was the star of the house, who easily made friends because of his good qualities. Our dear Abba, we accept your death as a necessary end awaiting every human being. And we pray to Almighty Allah to lighten your grave and admit you into paradise where we shall meet to part no more.
Muhammad is a retired Major.