Editor,

I was fortunate to have watched your interview with Ansumana Drammeh, on one of his TV programmes "the Gentleman show" on Sunday. And at the end of the interview, I felt strongly that you are a success. For me success is not when you measure yourself against another person but rather when you make the best and maximum use of your circumstance.

I must confess that I really honour and admire you. You are a source of encouragement and inspiration for anyone that is in despair and feels that all is lost and may even be contemplating on ending his/her life.

I am one of those people who had a brief relationship with you in the early eighties. We were together at WAEC as examiners and also at the then BPMRU as Science text books authors. You always addressed me as "my big brother" in Wollof. I can recall the confidence you hard in your self, how you discussed issues with authority, how you were always warm, full of honour and laughter. Those who knew you and have related to you can speak and write pages about your works and greatness.

For me, I sum it all up in one sentence; you are a good man, in deed. Your interview has refreshed and reinforced in me a few things that I have always believed in. That is, one should never lose hope; one should never give up; that when one door is closed, another one will always be opened; that satisfaction, peace and happiness are more of inner feelings than outer shows.

Your present life personifies faith, real belief in Allah and His ability to take control of things. You also illustrate the fact that Allah looks after and cares for every body. I am pleased to know that when you need love and comfort you count on your children, relatives, and few friends in the likes of Mr Ceesay, Dr Lowe, and others. May Allah reward them. When the going gets rough only a few partners would stay.

I conclude by saying congratulations once again. You are assured of my prayers and love. You are a great man indeed.