A Letter to My Esteemed Friend, Robert Ouma

Dear Robert,

Among all the people that I have known and forged friendships with in this world so far, none embodies charisma as you do. Believe me, I’m not trying to be melodramatic. I have known you for more than a decade now, and am deeply grateful for our friendship. 

We have locked horns for I don’t know how many times, but we have always found ways to resolve the differences. I attribute this to your amazing character and Dan’s unwavering commitment and willingness to gather us to help us resolve the differences. I must admit that our differences have mostly been petty, especially when we were still in high school or just post-high school. Of course, we are grown-ups now, and as much as we still “fight”, they are not as often.

Dan, Robert, and I are in a meeting at the ROCK KENYA offices at Olympic Estate, Kibera. Dan has presided over a lot of conflict resolution meetings between Robert and me.

Even after someone has wronged you, it doesn’t take you a long time to get past such issues and make amends; you don’t hold grudges. I think this is what makes you a kind and lovely soul – you don’t carry garbage in your heart. I’m tempted to posit a theory that only love, kindness, and goodwill have a place in your heart.

I’m a strong believer that true friendships must be tested through lingering micro-differences. And they are meant to strengthen friendships, not break them. I can attest to this from my experiences with my other friendships, some of which ended badly, while others are currently not as strong because we always dodged discussing our conflicts when they arose.

Robert (right) and I posing for a photo.

Without digressing to start discussing my philosophy on friendships (hahaha), allow me to highlight your intoxicating passion for making things work – your perfectionist character. You are always brimming with energy to create and innovate; you are not afraid of trying out new ideas. I believe this will unlock greater opportunities in your professional career! Actually, you have already started reaping the benefits of this! 

I will never forget (and I can’t thank you enough for this) that you are among the very few who cleared up their busy schedules to travel to Asembo to help me mourn and bury my grandma. You showed up classically and stylistically during my most difficult moment yet in this world. This one, I will forever remain indebted. You cannot understand what it means to me.

Lastly, thank you for always tolerating my weaknesses, especially my loose mouth. You have taught me so much in life. May you continue radiating love, kindness, and compassion to those around you.