Image by Coffee on pixabay, edited with canva
I have heard someone say that before death takes a person unexpectedly, his life and all he had done in the past flashes before his eyes, giving room for either regrets and remorse or joy and satisfaction before he dies. I think that's what happened to me.
I like music a lot, right from childhood and I like to paint as well. As an only child, my parents were busy people, always on the move while I spent my time either with the nanny and housekeeper or with friends in school. I also had my sketchbook, painting board and music to keep me company.
My mom bought me my first iPod at the age of eight. I remember Daddy complained that day, "Is he not too young for that kind of device?"
"No, Charles. He's not. In case you haven't noticed, he likes to sing a lot." Mom replied, rolling her eyes at my Daddy. I loved her more that day. She got me when no one did.
I have my iPod and earphones with me everywhere I go. I love to listen to pop, rhythm and blues music. I am now eighteen and I have a crush, my first crush actually. Her lovely pictures and my paintings of her grace the walls of my bedroom. My mom teased me about her but I don't care. I have serious admiration for Beyoncé, a world-famous music star.
I kept a diary and wrote stuff about her down. I have all her music albums and singles downloaded on my iPod and personal computer. I was up to date on her personal life. No, I'm not stalking her. I'm just a die-hard fan.
When I heard the news on radio and tv that she would sing at the annual musical festival held in my city, I vowed to be there at all costs and watch her perform live. The concert was in three days so I sent her a gift ahead with a letter. After all, that's what fans do, isn't it? I just hoped my letter would not get lost among the countless letters she got from other fans.
I sat at my desk and wrote.
Dear Beyoncé,
I met you once, long ago. You may not remember. I was tiny and frail then at the age of six. You visited the children's wing of the St. Peterson Hospital. My mom held me and we sat in the waiting room, expecting the doctor to give us an update on my health condition.
The number of people that trailed and thronged around you that day made it hard to see you but I begged my Mom to take me closer. She hesitated, not sure it was a good idea as I was pretty weak that day. Like a miracle, you turned, saw me and came closer to us. I thought I was in a dream.
I cannot remember what you said to Mom but she smiled with tears in her eyes and then you touched my cheeks and said, "Hey big boy. You will get better, eh? Be strong now." I was awed, I could only nod. You chuckled, looking so beautiful and left the waiting room with the crowd.
I will never forget that day because I did get better as you said and now I am all grown up. I am a man now and it's thanks to you for believing in me.
I attached this letter to this painting of you. I painted it for you, from my heart. Please accept it. Your music helped me through dark, gloomy times and I am all better for the gift you have been given.
I am beyond excited that you are performing in my city. I will be cheering you on in the audience.
Thank you, Beyoncé.
Your admirer, Mark Coker.
On the day of the concert, I was overly excited and in a state of anxiety and anticipation looking forward to seeing my crush. The concert was to start at 8 pm but everyone had to be seated by 6 pm. I hung my backpack on my shoulder and set out for the bus station.
As I got to the crosswalk, I was sure I saw the pedestrian light turn green as I walked across the busy road. I did not see the oncoming car until it was too late. I froze in the middle of the road and debated within a nanosecond whether to run or not.
Horns blared, tyres screeched and then I was up in the air. It was like time stood still. The only thought that came to me at that moment was: will I get to see my favourite musician and crush, Beyoncé? My life flashed before my eyes as I fell on the ground hard and lost consciousness.
I woke up in a hospital later that night, terrible pains all over my body as though a horse fell on me. A monitor blinked beside my bed, drips were attached to my hands and arms, my throat felt dry and I looked around to see if there was someone who could help me with water.
I turned my head a bit to the side…and stared into the eyes of Beyoncé! Behind her were two of her bodyguards and her assistant. I thought I was dreaming. She gave me her famous chuckle, then I knew I was alive and she was really in my room.
"Hey young man. How do you feel?"
I could only stare. I was lost for words. She's really here with me!
"You don't have to say anything. Just get better. The drunk driver that hit you is in the police holding cell now."
Then she touched my cheek lightly as though any more pressure would hurt me. I wouldn't mind more pressure. Her hand felt good on my cheek. She smelled nice too.
"I did not forget you. I received your painting and letter. Thank you," she said softly.
The dreams of a fan came to pass.