Things Remembered
Posted by
MSC
Sunday, April 24, 2011
10:10 PM
Ever since I was a child, I have always had a fair amount of memory of things surrounding me.
For example, I remember on occasions going to an office building in Nkana East, that belonged to the then Post & Telecommunications Corporation, and heading to the 5th floor. There was a room, a very big room shared by 3 people. One of them I knew quite well, the others were just his co-workers, who always found it imperative to strike up conversations with me whenever I paid a visit.
My father's office had lots of circuit diagrams, what I called gibberish at the time. In fact it had schematics of the entire country's telephone network and I would sit there mesmerized, and wondering if they were plastered on the walls for mere show N'tell or, if the trio actually knew this by heart. The wall behind my father's chair had the following text, the official name of which, only came to light the year I had to also recite them.
That was the Engineer's Hypocratic Oath.
The other thing I do remember is that, April 28 was always a significant day in the country. It is Kenneth Kaunda's birthday. Every year on this day, the newspaper would be extra big with a supplement dedicated to Mr President. Well this day was also Saddam Hussein birthday, not that anyone is asking.....
..............But most importantly, for our family, it was also Father's birthday. Sadly, I don't think the man celebrated his birthdays. I also do not recall on my account or any of my siblings' for that matter, ever wishing him one.
Now that he is 20 years gone, for the past few years I have remembered to always say something on his birthday. Today I do it a few days earlier.
For example, I remember on occasions going to an office building in Nkana East, that belonged to the then Post & Telecommunications Corporation, and heading to the 5th floor. There was a room, a very big room shared by 3 people. One of them I knew quite well, the others were just his co-workers, who always found it imperative to strike up conversations with me whenever I paid a visit.
My father's office had lots of circuit diagrams, what I called gibberish at the time. In fact it had schematics of the entire country's telephone network and I would sit there mesmerized, and wondering if they were plastered on the walls for mere show N'tell or, if the trio actually knew this by heart. The wall behind my father's chair had the following text, the official name of which, only came to light the year I had to also recite them.
I solemnly pledge myself to consecrate my life to the service of humanity. I will give to my teachers the respect and gratitude which is their due; I will be loyal to the profession of engineering and just and generous to its members; I will lead my life and practice my profession in uprightness and honor; whatever project I shall undertake, it shall be for the good of mankind to the utmost of my power; I will keep far away from wrong, from corruption, and from tempting others to vicious practice; I will exercise my profession solely for the benefit of humanity and perform no act for a criminal purpose, even if solicited, far less suggest it; I will speak out against evil and unjust practice wheresoever I encounter it; I will not permit considerations of religion, nationality, race, party politics, or social standing to intervene between my duty and my work; even under threat, I will not use my professional knowledge contrary to the laws of humanity; I will endeavour to avoid waste and the consumption of non-renewable resources. I make these promises solemnly, freely, and upon my honor."
That was the Engineer's Hypocratic Oath.
The other thing I do remember is that, April 28 was always a significant day in the country. It is Kenneth Kaunda's birthday. Every year on this day, the newspaper would be extra big with a supplement dedicated to Mr President. Well this day was also Saddam Hussein birthday, not that anyone is asking.....
..............But most importantly, for our family, it was also Father's birthday. Sadly, I don't think the man celebrated his birthdays. I also do not recall on my account or any of my siblings' for that matter, ever wishing him one.
Now that he is 20 years gone, for the past few years I have remembered to always say something on his birthday. Today I do it a few days earlier.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, F.M.C
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