Crossing the Bar: The Story of Daniel Opong Amoafo (DO)

ENDORSEMENTS

“Young people today want to get things fast but there are no shortcuts in life. Success is achieved one step at a time and by being diligent in the small things before the big things come our way. This book about the life of DO Amoafo reveals a lot of principles that can guide us along life’s journey. You will enjoy it”. – Rev. Prof. Mrs. Ivy Drafor Amenyah, Director, Research, Innovation & Consultancy Centre, Pentecost University; MBTI Certified Leadership Training Consultant, Agenda Inspirations; Ordained Minister, Presbyterian Church of Ghana

I have read many voluminous biographies, and was thus apprehensive of what this book might hold within its (153) pages. I am pleasantly surprised at the poignant lessons in life skills, reminders of our cultural practices and their roots, as well as valuable historical accounts of the past of our dear country all packaged into this short biography. DO, the subject, has lived through the changing scenes of life, portraying the often-hidden turbulence, confusion, fears and flights of emotions encountered throughout the growing up process.

This biography is a lesson in the heights attainable through humility, discipline, perseverance, and faith in God; epitomizing the adage “Obi nnim Obrempong n’ahyease”. A lesson from the OLD is GOLD. A must read for both the young and old. – Edusei Derkyi, Banker, Author and Member, Ghana Association of Writers (GAW) Advisory Board

Crossing the Bar, the ninth book by the distinguished author Kofi Adu Labi, is a very rewarding and exciting literary piece. This book which recounts the life of Mr. D.O. Amoafo of Abetifi and Nkwatia-Kwahu, has done justice to a great man’s life. It is Mr. Adu Labi’s second book which recounts the life of a remarkable nonagenarian. Like the first one which was about Mr. Eugene Ernest Amoa, there are several important lessons to be learned. This book which should be a welcome addition to anybody who is interested in Ghana’s traditions and historical transition from the World War II period through colonial times and post-independence to the present day. A major lesson a reader will come away with is that one’s journey in life will be shaped by whatever you do with the opportunities that come your way, your attitude to life and God’s grace and mercies.

The book will take the reader through the life of an educationist, businessman, historian, lay preacher and a family man. From his auspicious birth in Bechem in 1930 through to his secondary school life at Presbyterian Secondary School in Odumase Krobo, then to the Presbyterian Training College and eventually to the University of Ghana, the story is vividly told. The picture of an industrious and enterprising young man, with business acumen and a sense of community, emerges easily for the reader. His experiences as a Boy Scout leader, pupil teacher and then a trained teacher honed his leadership skills. His contribution to nurturing the Dansoman Emmanuel Congregation of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) from its formative years is also recounted. In all of this, one will gain insights into the life and practices of a responsible family man: the interesting account of his marriage to his dear Margaret; and the successful children that emerged from that partnership as fruits of effective parenting. Yet the reader also realizes that the life of a successful man is not all a bed of roses; Mr. Amoafo’s disappointments and bereavements are also shared. The book includes tributes from family and former students, all pointing to a well-rounded patriarch. It is telling that it concludes with ten lessons for effective living which include persistence, hard work and genuine love.

Crossing the Bar is certainly a “must-have” in every discerning person’s library. – Esther Oduraa Ofei-Aboagye (PhD), Chair, STAR Ghana Foundation and Development Management Consultant

This has been a captivating read from beginning to end. I had intended reading it at a leisurely pace but soon realised it was ‘unputdownable’, from the moment I started. My attention was caught right from the start by names which brought back memories:

• My mother was also born in Bechem in 1940 (10 years after DO) where my grandfather, a Presbyterian minister, was then stationed.
• My earliest memory (possibly age 2) of my own life, is of Abetifi where, again, my grandfather was stationed at the time.
• Mention of ‘Pomaa’ rather than ‘ponewa’ (which is the female derivative of ‘Opong’ used in my family).

I am delighted to have been among the first to read this inspirational biography of, by all accounts, an inspirational man.

You will be enriched by reading it and I recommend that you get a copy immediately. – Elizabeth Frimpomah Arhin, HR Consultant

Crossing the Bar, the story of Daniel Opong Amoafo (DO), an Educationist is captivating, inspirational and makes an interesting reading piece. The chronology and clarity of the narrative attests to the author’s love for history and strong personal relationships. These he has skilfully encapsulated to espouse the life and intrinsic worth of DO.

DO epitomises the virtues of hard work, perseverance, discipline and being results-oriented.

Indeed, he lived by the words of the Good Book in Colossians 3:23 that “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

This is a must read book. Get a copy. – Robert Dwamena, Fellow and Past President, Ghana Institution of Surveyors Former Managing Director, Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG)

DO has been a brother to me since 1948 when I came to live with his aunt Akosua Biraa to study at the Abetifi Girls School. My parents were peasant farmers in the Afram Plains. I was readily accepted by DO and his cousins, but he singled me out and showed me extra love and care.

I have always known him to have a big heart. He is very peaceful and loved by family and friends for this warm character.

I was privileged to witness his wedding in 1966 after he had witnessed mine a year before.

DO’s life is an illustration of the adage that while there is life there is hope. I encourage readers of this fascinating account of DO’s life to learn of him, with special reference to responsible parenting, prayerfulness and the fear of God.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I wish you happy reading too. – Alice Adarkwa Dadzie

(Afua Asaa), Retired Educationist