Episode 1: Buckled In

Honey, I saw some money come out of our joint account just now. Did you finally purchase that life insurance policy? “Yes dear, I thought we already agreed to…” Her hubby’s words were still forming when they were abruptly cut-off. “Oluwafemi Thompson!” How many times did I call you? Please better transfer that bill to your personal account o! And leave me and your children out of it. Good health and long life are our portion” she declared. “Instead, let us invest that monthly payment in something tangible. Like a new car or something that we actually need, … like a brand-new fridge”.

Femi looked at his beautiful wife, with a half-smile that revealed both empathy and a deep love and understanding of his better half. He was the “financial person” in the relationship and had only managed to convince his co-pilot of the need to at least get coverage for himself. Apparently, he should have been clearer about where the funding would come from, he thought.

“My Sweet Potato”, as he often called her, taking a few steps closer until she was firmly within his embrace, “You are right, nothing bad will happen to us and long life and good health are our portion. But purchasing life insurance doesn’t mean that you don’t have faith in a long and healthy life for us. It’s just like wearing a seatbelt when driving. It doesn’t mean you expect to have a collision each time we’re in the car. But it provides some peace of mind and prepares us for any careless drivers that may enter our lane”. Femi could sense his wife’s stance soften a little. He continued, “Which would give you more peace of mind on our road trip to Niagara Falls next week, the whole family buckled-in or just me?

Deep down, Kamsi knew her husband was right. But she couldn’t bring herself to remotely consider the possibility of living without her husband for a second. Her dad had died when she was 14 and the fear of losing a loved one had plagued her ever since.

… To be continued.