This is the journey of Ruth Mwikali Malinda, my grandmother, whom I fondly call Wainyaake. She is a rare gem to her generation; a life that has impacted her family and community by vast measures. During her life, Grandma Ruth has worked hard through blood, sweat, and tears to make ends meet for her family. She has given her heart, hands, and time to contributing meaningfully to many lives.
Everyone knows Wainyaake - everyone. She is that good neighbor, close friend, and loving grandmother to anyone who needs one. You either love her or not because she's a stickler for acknowledging and upholding all rules - no exceptions! For her, race or position in life bears no relevance to being disciplined. She is a direct, no-nonsense, modern woman, with the perfect blend of warmth, kindness, and discipline.
Grandma Ruth believes in education, and as a teacher, she teaches herself first. She advocates for everyone and anyone, especially the youth, accessing new and relevant information for upgrading their lives and that of their families. Consequently, she has spearheaded several community projects both for the church and the community to ensure that relevant knowledge is consistently available and accessible to everyone.
Wainyaake is one of the strongest women I've ever known and possesses a character that shines as brilliantly as an African gem. I consider her my gem, my blessing from God in the form of a grandmother. Truly, she is my hero because despite the numerous odds that life has thrown at her, she's always remained calm, resilient, and kind through it all.
This book captures the life of a wonderful woman who continues to live every day of her life in service to God and humanity.
