By Ali Elias
On September 16, 2024, Lagos was aglow as Mr. Adekunle Ogunle, a distinguished and respected member of the ECKANKAR community, marked his 80th birthday. While the grand celebration is set for Saturday, September 21st, this milestone was quietly but beautifully celebrated in a pre-event gathering with close friends and family. In the serene setting of his Egbeda home, a select group of friends and their spouses joined the celebrant in prayer, reflection, and joy.
The event began at 4:00 p.m. with a 30-minute HU song, the core Spiritual Exercise in ECKANKAR. As explained by a member, “HU is a holy name for God, used as a prayer song to connect the user directly with his/her Divine Creator.” The prayer created a calm and reverent atmosphere, where love and divine connection filled the air.
Following this peaceful start, appetizers were served.
Dressed in a vibrant red agbada over a crisp white lace shirt and trousers, the celebrant radiated youthful energy and wisdom. His presence, commanding and graceful, set the tone for the evening.
Next came a delicious dish of pounded yam with a choice of white or vegetable soup; or jollof rice with moimoi. An assortment of drinks was also served, mainly non-alcoholic beverages.
In the midst of warm laughter and shared stories, Mr. Olu Farinre proposed a heartfelt toast, wishing Mr. Ogunle a long, vibrant life filled with health and joy.
The highlight of the event was the cutting of the birthday cake, which the celebrant joyfully did with his wife and close friends by his side, to the applause and cheers of all present.
ECK songs played softly in the background, adding a layer of spiritual warmth before the mood shifted to upbeat music, inviting everyone to the dance floor.
When asked how he felt about reaching 80, Mr. Ogunle smiled and humbly responded, “I feel great; all praise goes to the Mahanta, the Living ECK Master.” His wisdom for the younger generation? It was simple yet profound: “Let go and let God; when you do that, your survival rate will be very high.”
Though brief, the gathering was filled with love, laughter, and gratitude—a perfect prelude to the larger celebration to come.
As Mr. Ogunle steps into his 80s, his youthful spirit and wisdom continue to inspire all who know him, making this milestone not just a celebration of years, but of a life well-lived.
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