Katonda akola byayagala

We've just discovered the gender of our third arrow, and watching Zoli's reaction ([link to video]) reminded me of the day we found out about her impending arrival.

It was July 23, 2018, coinciding with our first-month anniversary. We had planned a dinner date at Sky Hotel to drink to the one month of none stop nakani 😉. Mucu wasn't feeling 100%, so on the way back home, she confided in her colleague, who lackadaisically suggested she take a pregnancy test. She bought one on her way home. As I waited for her after freshening up, she emerged from the bathroom with the pregnancy test result—our first glimpse of the news that we were expecting. Zoli managed to outwit our family planning method, bringing us the surprise!

Though my reaction wasn't as emotional as Zoli's in the video, I certainly whined. I unfairly blamed my wife for not completing her medication and failed to fully appreciate the moment. I felt like we still needed to enjoy some years of singleness before welcoming children into our new journey. I was particularly not excited in that moment. Thankfully, through divine intervention, we soon found ourselves on a grateful page after a heartfelt prayer.

Zoli (Zo-Walking Li-Beauty) has undoubtedly been one of the greatest blessings in our marriage. The walking beauty's presence illuminates the lives of everyone she encounters, and she has fostered significant growth for both of us. Reflecting back, it's astounding how limited our understanding can be—how did I, in my naivety, doubt, question, or appear ungrateful that evening of July 23rd? If I were to meet my past self in that mood again, I would certainly have stern words for myself.

My mother might probably have reacted the same, the day she discovered my gender; for she is a first born followed by 3 other wonderful ladies and 4 gentlemen in that order. God also gave her 3 boys first, then my elder sister and she knew the pattern would probably be the same with me flowing in as a girl. There were definitely limited pregnancy scans then, so in 1990 when I popped, she welcomed my interesting arrival by knighting me 'Byamukama' translated as "All children are from and for God" including all things btw.

The lesson, for Zoli as she grows older, for myself, and perhaps for the reader, is the reminder that God is always in control. His plans unfold in mysterious ways, sometimes answering our prayers directly, while other times, leading us down unexpected paths. We can never fully comprehend or manipulate His divine will. As Psalm 135:6 states, "...God does what he wishes." (Loosely translated as "Katonda akola byayagala" 😎)

Therefore, let us learn to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)