James is a hard working man who has been exceptional in all he does. In school, he was the best among his mates. Currently working at United Bank of Africa, he never fails to demonstrate his outstanding traits in all tasks given to him, as he often tends to deliver effectively. However, his world became upside down after being promoted to the position of a branch manager.
First, the branch which he was managing was attacked by robbers, where they made away with all the valuables (both cash and other assets) in the bank. On evaluating the cost of all that were lost, the board decided to let go of all the workers (including James), after which the branch was closed down. While sitting in the office thinking of the way forward, a breaking news about a pregnant woman that was involved in an accident just popped up on the TV station he tuned in. On watching further, it was James's wife — who was to go to the hospital for her monthly check-up.
"Doctor! Doctor! Doctor! James screamed while entering the hospital. "Mr. James, you need to calm down" the doctor said. "What happened to my wife?" he asked. "She had an accident a few miles away while coming here. She collided with a truck who was at a high speed. Consequently, she sustained severe injuries especially on her head, which led to her losing consciousness. We tried our best but …" "But what?" James interrupted. "She couldn't make it", the doctor said. It was unbearable for James. In less than 24 hours, his world has turned upside down.
James drank throughout the night. The house feels so lonely and uncomfortable for him. His neighbours have tried to console him but none was successful. It was about 2:00 am, and everyone had returned to their apartments. James quietly opened his door and left his house. He headed towards a river a few miles away from his place, with the intention of jumping in.
On getting there, he met an old man who has been sailing all his life. "I don't know what brought you here by this time of the day, but by looking at your face I can say that all is not well. But before doing that that brought you here, I have one request from you; sail with him for just a few minutes, after which I will let you do your stuff" the old man said. James refused but the man insisted, citing that it has been ages since he sailed with someone. Looking at his condition, James obliged.
While on the boat, the fresh and calm breeze of the sea served as a burden lifter for James. For a moment, James had a different feeling. James felt a cold touch on his shoulder, on turning, it was his wife (Anita). "Darling, you didn't say goodbye before leaving. Why did you just leave me here? James asked with a breaking voice. "Darling, everything happened for a reason. God has a reason for everything. There's a bigger thing on the way for you. It was all God's plan, and that is why I need you to stay strong and move on. Things will fall into place for the better!" Anita replied as she disappeared. It was just what James needed. He felt consoled, he was giving a reason to start afresh.