Author and Mental Health advocate, Enoch Tetteh Nanor Opata has challenged Ghanaians to not allow their scars to become a source of shame, rather tattoos of triumph. The author made this revelation in his emotional speech during the maiden launch of his newest book, ‘Living above the Tides,’ which was held at the GNAT Hall in Accra on Saturday, May 29, 2021.
‘Don’t ever be ashamed of the scars life has left you with. That scar means the hurt is over and the wound is closed. The scar also means you conquered the pain, learned a lesson, grew stronger, and moved forward. Look at those scars as tattoos of triumph to be proud of, and don’t allow them to hold you hostage.’
He also added that though scars could not be made to disappear, one should change the way he sees them. ‘You can’t make the scars in your life disappear, but you can change the way you see them: ‘Start seeing your scars as a sign of strength and not pain.’
Chairing the event was Osagyefo Nana Kweky Gyeke II, Akomuhen of Nkusukum Amansie, Mankessim. Also in attendance were the Deputy Director, Directorate of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces, Burma Camp Accra, Commander Michael Addo Larbi and Chief of Asebu Kwamankese, Gyantua Division, Nana Kow Ackon II.
Enoch Opata (Left), Osagyefo Nana Kweky Gyeke II, Akomuhen of Nkusukum Amansie, Mankessim (Middle), and Chief of Asebu Kwamankese, Gyantua Division, Nana Kow Ackon II (Right)
In her book review, CEO of Editors GH, Caroline Owusu Asamoah applauded Enoch’s tenacity in chronicling his mistakes and failures in the book: ‘I love how the author narrates his life challenges and applaud his honesty and boldness in writing about his life for others to learn from.’
Deputy Director, Directorate of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces, Burma Camp Accra, Commander Michael Addo Larbi
Lighting up the day, were sterling performances and ministrations by Chasboat the poet, Pastor Uriah Dey, and Minister Eni Larbi.
CEO of Editors Gh, Caroline Owusu Asamoah
When asked the inspiration behind the book in an interview with Caroline Owusu Asamoah during the event, Enoch Opata disclosed that he wanted to prove his critics wrong and inspire change in others’ lives.
Minister Eni Larbi during a song ministration at the launch
Chasboat the poet
Pastor Uriah Dey ministering a song during the launch
About the Author
He holds a Master of Arts Degree in Public Relations from the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies (Strategic Communication option) from the Africa University College of Communications (AUCC). He also holds a Diploma in Communication Studies from the African University College of Communications (AUCC) and a Delf Attestation from Alliance Francaise. He has held many positions and key among them is, Command PRO with the Southern Command of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). He is currently with the Directorate of Public Relations, General Headquarters as Editor. He hails from Doryumu- Shai Hills.
About the Book
Living above the Tides is a book that chronicles how author and Mental Health Advocate, Enoch Opata sailed through his painful moments, struggles with depression and suicide, and mistakes in life. The book aims to encourage readers and inspire in them hope for the future despite hardships and difficult moments.
