Having a dad who was also a teacher was like living with a principal who never clocked out. Every day was a lesson, and every mistake came with homework. But exam time — that was another level entirely.
I remember one evening, I was seated on the couch, playing Super Mario, completely unbothered. Dad walked in, looked at me and asked, “So, have you studied?”
I shrugged and said, “A bit.”
He took a deep breath, sat on his sofa and said in that legendary teacher tone,
“Just so you know if you fail this… it will be the end of you.”
Me who knew deep down that he wouldn’t let me down no matter what he said burst out laughing, but then he leaned closer and added, I mean it. “Kamoneni nakekekala kalemona kwati fyakuseka Lobe life yalikosa”
From that moment, I knew my life depended on it — because, according to Dad, it did!
That was Dad for you — half comedian, half drill sergeant, and all heart.
Looking back, I realize it was never really about the grades. He just wanted me to understand the value of effort, responsibility, and giving my best. But still… I’ll never forget those words a reminder I got through every test I wrote.
“If you fail — it will be the end of you lobe”
