He cost me 5 burnt pots, 3 resit examinations, 9 queries from my boss, series of disappointment from my parents and a suspension from the office.
I met him in 1993 in Japan; he introduced me to the skills of dribbling and goal scoring. We had so much for fun that when he bought 2 tickets to travel to the northern part of Africa and asked me to accompany him; I agreed.
Our journey to the States was the climax of our relationship.
On one of our dates, he introduced me to Carlos, who did something remarkable; he made history. I remember looking up at him and saying how glad I was that he brought me here, and he said ‘you ain’t seen anything yet’.
We traveled to so many countries like France, South Korea, Germany, etc.
He was different from the others, he accepted my friends and I for who we were and even brought launch for my friends, whenever they were down. He was never jealous; whenever he beckoned, I came running because there was always something new I knew I would experience. Sometimes he made me cry, sometimes I even got my heart broken, but I could not live without him, he was the air I breathed, the song I sang.
He made me realize that all I had to do to be successful in life was to know what I wanted, work hard to get it and work twice as hard not to lose it.
Last year, I decided to break up with him or fail in my studies, my job and with my family. He promised to let go after one last trip. We made a bet, shook on it and months later I found myself in South Africa.
He showed me a side of him I never knew existed; I found myself in a tight corner, and of course I lost the bet. He taught me never to underrate anyone or allow people define me and that one of the keys to success is to be a team player.
On our way back from SA, I looked into his eyes, and I said I will always love you but I am tired of cheating on Derek, my job and my family and I kissed him goodbye.
The name of my first love is FOOTBALL the best game and only game that unites the world.
Thank you for having me, and if you ever find me lurking outside your apartment, please welcome me with open arms.
