War and Love

January 14, 1863

Dearest Ifeoluwa,

The harmattan is really blowing tonight. Within every gust of wind lifts the conscience of your absence within me every single moment passes through me since you left for the war to fight for our dear land.

I still recall that last embrace-your uniform neat, and your eyes full of resolution and love. This war has been rather cruel and has torn families asunder, and yet it has not been able to tear asunder what we share.

I light a small lamp by the window each evening, hoping that it will guide your feet home safely. It is quiet here in the compound except for the whisper of the wind rustling the trees. I look after the animals and the little garden, yet all my heart is with you.

Ife mi, ore mi-your love shines brighter than any star, and it warms my soul even in the coldest night. Write quickly to me. Tell me if the fighting is as hard as I fear, whether you are well, and, if you have enough to eat. I worry for you, but I have faith in your strong spirit. Remember our promise that come what may, distance or danger, our love will always light the way home.

Yours always,

Eyinju

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February 1, 1863

My dearest Eyinju,

Your letter reached me like a warming breeze in the cold of the camp. Seeing your familiar writing brought tears to my eyes-a rare comfort in this troubled time.

The fighting is as harsh as you think it is. The smell of gunpowder fills the air as the cries of the hurt fill the air. Each day feels long and heavy. But your love is my shield, and your letters feed my soul.

I keep a little locket with your picture close to my heart as a charm against despair. I often see your lamp in the window-a light of hope during my darkest nights. The other men talk of home with longing, but the strength of having you there gives me courage.

Please give me more news about the compound and our small life back at home. Your words bring me closer to home and remind me of what I am fighting for. When the fighting dies down and the stars come out, I lie here looking up and imagining you doing the same, our hearts beating as one despite the distance.

Always yours,

Ifeoluwa

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March 10, 1863

Dearest Ifeoluwa,

Sweetly and slowly is spring ushering in some new beginnings. The flowers begin to bloom, the trail of life is continued even in this difficult season. The compound wakes, and warmth creeps upon me in the rhythms of everyday life at home.

This last letter of yours brought tears and smiles too. I really feel heart-warmed knowing that you keep my picture near your heart. I take care of those animals and the small farm knowing that this land fills not only the bodies but also the dreams we dream of.

Ife mi, ọ̀rẹ́ mi-those children in the village ask of you with bright eyes and hope. I tell them that you are brave and that such a love binds us, approved by man and heaven, and they are comforted. We wait for the day you would come, not as a soldier, but as my husband-neighbor and friend.

The nights are too long and lonely, but I weave these threads into a fabric of peace with our memories and the hope of brighter days. So, my beloved, hold on; I am always with you in spirit and cheering you on with every beat of my heart.

Forever yours,

Eyinju

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April 25, 1863

My beloved Eyinju,

This came to me like a soft breeze here in the camp. Your descriptions of home—the waking compound and blooming flowers—are soothing balm to my weary heart.

The war drags on like a never-ending storm, yet the thought of you keeps me strong. Your letters are my sanctuary, a little glimpse of the life we will share once all this is behind us. I see your face in every sunrise, I laugh like you in the chirping of the birds, and I feel your tenderness in the whisper of the wind.

I am proud to serve our people, but I long for the day when I can put aside my rifle and return to your loving arms. Until then, I draw strength from your being, waiting for me, and from this love that will win over these trials.

Ife mi, ore mi-tell me more about your daily life: the small joys and the burdens. Your love and courage inspire me every single day. We will weather the storm, and when peace comes, a new dawn awaits us.

Forever and always,

Ifeoluwa