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Fare thee well, Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth waves goodbye to the world
The announcement by Buckingham Palace concerning the death of Queen Elizabeth II has sent a wave of sadness across the world.
Having been enthroned as Queen of the United Kingdom in 1952, the late leader was able to fulfill many official engagements involving the United Kingdom within and outside UK.
She visited Ghana on two occasions, that is, 1961 and 1999. On one occasion she was the Special Guest of Honour in Ghana in 1961 to participate in the country’s post-Presidential days after Ghana had decided to use Kwame Nkrumah as its own President. So glamorous was she that Ghanaians at the time felt very proud about the diplomatic relations between Ghana and the United Kingdom. The Queen is blessed with many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The royal family in UK feels very proud about and will do everything to protect her and the royal family and tradition.
In line with tradition and culture, the British will observe 12 days of mourning during which the state will declare the period as holidays in honour of the late Queen.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has, on behalf of the government and people of Ghana, expressed his condolences to the royal family and people of Britain. This is a sad moment for our British friends but the sadness is shared by all Ghanaians, the Commonwealth of Nations and the world as a whole.
The world has a lot to learn from the beautiful quality of the late Queen. Her beautiful and infectious smile was the envy of people in the world.
Again, her language of diplomacy and unique advice to the royal family as well as government officials would be missed by those who benefitted from such advice, guidance and counselling. There is no doubt that the world as a whole will miss her dearly.
The presence of the Queen at functions added special grace to all those occasions. Many nationals of different countries felt proud and greatly honoured by her presence.
One of the latest events she attended publicly was the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. On that occasion she encouraged members of the Commonwealth to stay together and promote the interest of the Commonwealth and the world through the Games.
United Kingdom together with the world has lost an important personality who will be missed by the world. It is not only the UK which has lost this gem of a Queen but the entire universe of mankind.
The royal system in the United Kingdom has been preserved over the years till today, in line with British customs and traditions. This has helped to preserve the identity of that country.
This is a big lesson to all countries to emulate and preserve their values and norms in line with their own prospective practices. Again, the way in which the death of the Queen was announced is very admirable.
Members of the royal family first gathered and took a decision on the death of the Queen before allowing Buckingham Palace to make announcement of the death. This was picked by the British Broadcasting Corporation and announced to the world.
Thus everything was done in an orderly manner. What this means is that, when it comes to announcement of the passing of the royal, it cannot be done any how or in a haphazard manner, but in a well-rehearsed, smooth and meaningful manner acceptable to the people in line with customs, norms and belief systems.
This is a great lesson that we cannot ignore.
Furthermore, it is instructive to note that the news of the passing was broadcast by the national broadcaster after receiving it at the Buckingham Palace. Another lesson here is that those who serve on the national network must be fair, committed, diligent and responsible.
Anyone who wants to be respected on the national network should have accommodation for such values and principles.
After passing away at age 96, the Queen kept to certain basic principles of health. First, she doid not eat just any food but balanced diet to keep her body healthy. She took time also to rest whenever she found it necessary to do so.
Again, she took in enough water and exercised her body. She undertook all this on regular basis. No wonder, she stayed long till age 96.
The great leader is without blemish, but she would be remembered for all the good things she stood for. Having been on the throne for 70 years she played a critical role in the transformation and growth of the Commonwealth of Nations.
This seeks to bring all former British colonies together and promote their common interests. Under the Commonwealth, certain achievements were made. First of all, the Commonwealth has helped to promote peace and security not only in Commonwealth but in the world as a whole.
In addition, there has been technical cooperation between the UK, on one hand, and the Commonwealth countries, on the other. Also, various forms of assistance have been made available to the Commonwealth countries.
All these have helped to promote socio-economic development in various parts of the world. The role of the Queen in the world has also helped to bring about pleasant diplomatic relations in all parts of the world. Her personal qualities as a Queen are enviable. Her language of diplomacy and tact as well as prospect for everyone go to show that we need to build healthy relationships with one another irrespective of colour, belief, race and practices, among others.
The visit of the Queen to Ghana on two occasions portrays her as a lover of the country. In 2001, for example, she singled out Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to propose a toast in Canada during a Commonwealth Summit in that country.
The demise of the Queen is a big blow to the world. It is expected that her successor, having followed the role she played on this earth, will also work hard to emulate the attitude and lifestyle of the late Queen who demonstrated that she was a Queen mother not only in the United Kingdom but to the world as a whole.
Countries must keep to their norms and values so that like the people in the UK, their identity as a people will be preserved and kept afresh for the present and future generations. This is how the beauty and tradition can be blended and kept together for the good of mankind on this earth.
Queen Elizabeth II would be remembered at all times because she paid her due as a world leader.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.
BY DR. KOFI AMPONSAH-BEDIAKO
Email address/whatsApp number of author:
Pradmat201@gmail.com (0553318911)
Features
The Prophet part 9
Antubam followed her. She indicated for him to sit down. She was about to call Mary when she emerged from the hall, followed by Suzzie.
“It’s good you are both here,” she said. “There’s something I need to tell all three of you. Mr Antubam, I will not waste time on your so-called interest in me, because you and I are two very different people with absolutely nothing in common. The main point I want to make now is that your so-called church is nothing but a fraud with which you are deceiving people who may be ignorant today, but are still precious in God’s sight.
Apart from deceiving them and enriching yourself, you are using God’s name to commit fraud. Today you may be enjoying money, food, alcohol and women, but you will certainly pay a high price for it, unless of course you are willing to repent now. My concern is for my two sisters.
I am demanding that they cut all links with you, now. No visits to your home or church, and no telephone calls. I have told them to give you back every penny you have given them. I am prepared to find money to pay whatever they owe you. That is all I have to say.”
Antubam rose, furious, and pointed his finger at her.
“Let me warn you, Betty. Yes, I am interested in you, and I am ready to take care of all your needs, even to rent a house and buy a car for you. But I will not allow you to insult me. You better withdraw those words you have used against me now, or I will deal with you very soon.”
“Don’t make me laugh, Antubam. You? Deal with me? Why don’t you deal with me now? You have to wait till you go to the shrine and beg the fetish priest to deal with me? See how miserable you are? I dare you! Leave my house now, and go to that miserable fetish priest and get him to rain down all his powers on me!”
“You will see!” Antubam declared as he moved towards his car. He hesitated for a moment to see if Mary and Suzzie would walk him to the car, but noticing that they were firmly glued to their seats he got in the car and drove home.
He got out of the car and went straight to the drinks cupboard, poured himself a full glass of whisky and gulped down half of it. He sat down and called his batman, Kofi Takyi.
“Which two women did you call today?”
“Aggie, one of the new members is in. She is having supper in the guest room. Priscilla will be coming around 9pm.”
“Good work, Kofi. Now, get me my food.” After wolfing down the fufu and light soup, he gulped down the other half of the whisky and stretched out on the sofa and began a smooth, rhythmic snore. Priscilla entered, walked over and, shaking her head, strolled to the bedroom.
Betty came from the shower to find the two friends still glued to their seats.
“Well? Aren’t you two going to say anything?”
“I have something to say,” Mary said. “I don’t understand you, Betty. You want us to cut all links with Antubam, and to refund all the money he has given us. Now, when we do that, do we come back here tomorrow, sit and stare at the sky and hope and pray that our holy sister (Betty) will bring us manna to eat?”
“Such a stupid statement must not come from you, Mary. What happened to your WASSCE qualifications and your intelligence? Here’s some free advice. Get on the internet. Submit applications for university admission. I am prepared to pay for the two of you. And from tomorrow, start studying the Bible seriously, with the intention of doing what it says. I assure you, there are solutions in the Bible for every problem you face today, and will face tomorrow. All you need, Mary, is to use your God-given intelligence. How could you stoop so low as to take money from a common thief and drunkard like Antubam?”
Suzzie rose quietly and held Betty’s hand. “Do you know, Betty? Until a few minutes ago I did not know that you cared so much about me that you consider me your sister. I promise you. We will do as you say. Mary, we will go and collect the rent money, add it to all the money we have taken, and pay it into the account. From tomorrow, Betty, Mary and I will follow you wherever you go’. With tears streaming down her cheeks she walked away.”
Antubam got up with a start. He checked the time on his phone. It was midnight. He sat up, and was moving towards the bedroom when he heard the voices.
“Is anything the matter?” he said. “You have never come here at this time. I thought you only come at dawn.”
“We are always here. We only contact you when we have to. We have to warn you. That girl is trouble. If you don’t leave her alone there will be problems.”
“I don’t understand. I can’t leave her alone. I must sleep with her as many times as possible, conquer her. Why can’t you get her for me?”
“She is firmly buried in the book. You are sleeping with two women every night, and there are many more available in the church. Leave that girl alone?”
“Do you fear her? What book is that? I don’t know why…..” before he could finish the sentence several flashes of pain like a horsewhip on fire cut across his back, and he yelled, bringing Priscilla and Aggie from their rooms.
“What is it, Antubam?” Priscilla asked.
“Er…er. I saw a revelation about a church member who is in some trouble. I need to pray for her. Please go back to the rooms. I will join you soon.” Aggie went to the room, but Priscilla lingered.
“Antubam, why don’t you tell me what the problem is so that I can help you? It appears you have just received some spiritual lashes. Are you being punished for something you have done?”
“Perhaps your husband is punishing me for sleeping with you.”
“Do you dare insult me, Antubam. You will certainly regret speaking to me like this?”
“You have a loud mouth, but your only abilities in life, Priscilla, are sex and extorting money. I will come and sleep with you shortly, and give you money in the morning. Now leave!” She slipped out quietly, and the voices resumed.
“Next time you talk like that you will receive a much bigger punishment. We are only trying to protect you. You are planning to go to the shrine tomorrow morning to invoke curses on the girl. Be careful. Our master may grant your wish if you press him, but you may regret it.”
“I am sorry if I sound ungrateful, but I just can’t resist that girl. She is so beautiful and sexy. Moreover she has insulted me, and I must punish her.”
“Remember we warned you. You are already in danger. One of your competitors is asking questions about you, and thinking about the possibility of dealing with you. Jehoshaphat Agyiri. Everyone calls him Gidigidi.”
“I have heard of him. But what have I done?”
“He belongs to us. We work for him. He wants to check if you will threaten him. He can’t do you any harm as long as you use the stick. But your main problem will come from the girl.”
“Thank you for your help. As for the girl, please talk to Nana Broni for me. I am ready to pay anything for the pleasure of catching that girl in my bed and disciplining her.”
“Antubam,” Priscilla started, “are you going to apologise for the way you spoke to me? And are you going to apologise for bringing another woman here even though I am here with you?”
“Are you going to collect money from me tomorrow morning, Priscilla?”
“Get into bed, you idiot. I wonder why those women in the church cannot see you for the cheap fraudster you really are.”
Antubam took off at dawn, and arrived at the shrine before five.
“You are welcome, Antubam. We know, yet we still ask, as the saying goes. What brings you here?”
“You already know, Okomfo. I must have the girl at all costs. I am prepared to pay anything.”
“I have already consulted Nana Ama Kokoben. I have prepared a fire for her. She will be here any minute, with her mirrors. What you are asking is beyond me, but she is willing to help you. Ah, here she is.”
The small woman sat on a stool next to Okomfo, and stared into Antubam’s eyes for several minutes.
“I will try to help you, but the effort will come from you.” They moved over to the fire, and she placed the two mirrors over the fire.”
“Look! You will see the girl. Take this needle. When she appears in the mirror, pierce her eyes with the needle. By the time you get back to Tafo she will be at your house. From today, she will follow you just as a dog follows its master.”
By Ekow de Heer
Features
Toothache: Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options
A toothache is a painful sensation in or around a tooth, which can be caused by a variety of factors.
It is a common dental emergency that can affect anyone, regardless of age or oral health.
Toothaches can range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing.
Causes of toothache
There are several causes of toothache, including:
1. Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the most common cause of toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel of the tooth, creating a cavity.
2. Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can cause toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth infect the gums, causing inflammation and pain.
3. Cracked tooth: A cracked tooth can cause toothache. This can occur due to biting or chewing on something hard, or due to a blow to the mouth.
4. Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gum tissue. It can cause severe toothache and swelling.
5. Grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching the teeth can cause toothache. This can occur due to stress, anxiety, or a misaligned bite.
6. Loose or broken filling: A loose or broken filling can cause toothache. This can occur due to wear and tear, or due to a blow to the mouth.
Symptoms of toothache
The symptoms of toothache can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
1. Pain: A sharp, stabbing, or dull ache in the tooth or surrounding gum tissue.
2. Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour tastes, or pressure.
3. Swelling: Swelling of the gum tissue or face.
4. Difficulty chewing: Difficulty chewing or biting due to pain or discomfort.
5. Bad breath: Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Diagnosis of Toothache
Diagnosing toothache typically involves a combination of:
1. Visual examination: A visual examination of the tooth and surrounding gum tissue.
2. X-rays: X-rays may be taken to check for signs of tooth decay, abscesses, or other problems.
3. Percussion test: A percussion test, which involves tapping on the tooth to check for sensitivity.
Treatment options for toothache
The treatment options for toothache depend on the cause and severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:
1. Fillings: Fillings may be used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma.
2. Extractions: In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage.
3. Root canals: Root canals may be performed to remove infected pulp from the tooth.
4. Crown or bridge: A crown or bridge may be used to repair a damaged tooth or replace a missing tooth.
5. Pain relief: Pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be prescribed to manage pain and discomfort.
Home remedies for toothache
There are several home remedies that can help to alleviate toothache, including:
1. Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help to reduce pain and swelling.
2. Salt water rinse: Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Cloves: Applying a clove to the affected tooth can help to numb the area and reduce pain.
4. Over-the-counter pain relief: Taking over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to manage pain and discomfort.
Prevention of toothache
Preventing toothache involves maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including:
1. Brushing and flossing: Brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth.
2. Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups can help to identify and treat oral health problems early on.
3. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods: Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks can help to reduce the risk of tooth decay and erosion.
4. Wearing a mouth guard: Wearing a mouthguard can help to protect the teeth from injury during sports or other activities.
Conclusion
Toothache is a common dental emergency that can be caused by a variety of factors.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for toothache can help individuals to seek prompt treatment and alleviate pain and discomfort.
By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, individuals can reduce their risk of developing toothache.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
