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| Tayo, the last son of the old man |
Days turned into weeks, and Baba Tayo’s children spent more time together than they had in years. They gathered at the family estate, poring over financial documents, discussing plans, and sometimes arguing late into the night. The task their father had set before them was daunting, but they were determined to honour his wishes.
Baba Tayo observed them quietly, pleased to see the transformation taking place. The initial tension had begun to ease, replaced by a growing sense of camaraderie. Kunle’s ambition, once a source of friction, became a driving force for innovation as he began to see the potential for blending his entrepreneurial vision with Yemi’s passion for philanthropy. Yemi, in turn, learned to appreciate Kunle’s strategic mind, understanding that their father’s wealth could be a tool for both growth and good.
Tayo remained the most detached, content with her simple life by the coast, but she became the glue that held her siblings together. Her calm demeanour and ability to mediate their disputes brought balance to the discussions, reminding Kunle and Yemi that their father’s legacy was more than just money—it was about preserving the love and respect that had always been at the core of their family.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the estate, the three siblings sat on the veranda, reflecting on their progress. Baba Tayo had retreated to his room, leaving them to their deliberations. The air was filled with the scent of blooming jasmine, and the only sound was the soft rustling of leaves in the evening breeze.
“We’ve come a long way,” Yemi said, breaking the silence. “I never thought we’d be able to work together like this.”
Kunle nodded, his usual bravado softened by the weight of their shared responsibility. “Father was right to trust us with this decision. It’s made me realize that wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about what you do with it, and who you share it with.”
Tayo smiled, her eyes reflecting the fading light. “I think Father knew that we’d find our way. He always believed in us, even when we didn’t believe in ourselves.”
The three of them fell silent, each lost in their thoughts. For the first time in a long time, they felt like a true family again, united by more than just blood. They were bound by the lessons their father had imparted, by the love that had been the foundation of their upbringing.
As the evening deepened, Kunle spoke again. “We’ve talked about expanding the business, investing in Yemi’s hospital, and even setting aside a portion for Tayo’s work in the village. But there’s one more thing I think we should do.”
Yemi and Tayo turned to him, curious.
“We should establish a foundation in Father’s name,” Kunle continued. “A way to ensure that his legacy continues long after we’re gone. It could fund projects that align with all our values—entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, and community development. Something that represents everything he stood for.”
Yemi’s eyes lit up with approval. “That’s a wonderful idea, Kunle. It would be a way to honour his memory and keep his spirit alive in the work we do.”
Tayo nodded in agreement. “I like it. It’s something we can all be proud of.”
The decision was made. The Tayo Foundation would be established, a symbol of the unity they had found and a testament to their father’s vision. It would be a way to give back to the community that had supported their family for generations, and a means to continue the work Baba Tayo had started.
The next morning, Baba Tayo called his children to his side. They found him in his room, sitting by the window as the first rays of sunlight streamed in. He looked frailer than before, but there was a light in his eyes, a quiet strength that had not dimmed.
“We’ve come to a decision, Father,” Kunle said, stepping forward. “We’ve decided to establish a foundation in your name, to continue your legacy and ensure that your wealth is used for the greater good.”
Baba Tayo’s face softened with a smile, pride swelling in his heart. “I knew you would find the right path. You have made me proud—more proud than you could ever know.”
Yemi stepped forward, taking her father’s hand. “We’ve learned so much from you, Father. About wealth, about family, about what really matters in life.”
Tayo knelt beside him, her voice gentle. “We’ll make sure your legacy lives on, in the foundation, in the business, in everything we do. You’ve given us so much more than just money—you’ve given us a purpose.”
Baba Tayo squeezed their hands, his heart full. “You are my greatest wealth, my greatest legacy. I have no doubt that you will carry on what I have started, and that you will do it with the love and wisdom that you have shown me.”
As they sat together in the warmth of the morning sun, Baba Tayo felt a deep sense of peace. He had fulfilled his life’s purpose—not just in building an empire, but in raising a family that would carry his values forward. The wealth he had accumulated would serve its true purpose, not as a source of division, but as a means to unite, to build, to uplift.
And as the days passed, and Baba Tayo’s time drew near, he knew that he could leave this world without regret. His children were ready to take on the mantle, to honour the legacy of the Tayo family, and to forge a future that would make him proud.
In the end, Baba Tayo’s wealth was not measured in the riches he left behind, but in the love, the wisdom, and the unity that his family would carry with them. It was a legacy that would endure, a legacy that would continue to grow, long after he was gone.
