Goodevening Chaps! Good to see how the thread's been performing. I popped in briefly in the last couple of days but couldn't respond at once.

Some posters whom I thought I knew are actually surprising (shocking?) me with their recent posts, which borders so much on antagonism, but it's ok, anyway, agreed to let it pass. Pardon me, chaps, lemme send in my full contribution tomorrow.

Goodnite and happy weekend!

@ Recent posters
Thanks for the quick responses. Annify & Niyooo, I'm quite interested in your explanations. Shedding more light, Still await more posts on the questions. Thanks all. Have a great Wednesday.

Guys, I think Opoks is making a point in his last post. Come to think of it, he wasn't the one who initiated the idea of a Litany in the first place. Secondly, he wasn't the only one who responded to Kuwena's lengthy post either. I also did, as did so many others some of whom he has already listed. You could also say that, inasmuch as Kuwena's lenghty post had nothing to do with a litany, the ensuing discussions generated by the post and Niyoo's comments needn't attempt tying the two together.

However, where I think Opoks may have got it mixed up was in his understanding of the whole concept of litany. Opoks, Kuwena wasn't exactly asking us to give our impressions of people on the thread. If that was his suggestion, then your litany was accurate, 100% to the definition, for You were sincere in stating both the  good and poor impressions we've individually made on You. Rather, what Kuwena asked for was simply to write about the good sides of people on this thread. I think that's simple enough, considering that even the worst sinner or criminal on earth also has some innate good qualities in him that anyone who knows him could talk about. Yes? Agreed? So even if You knew a thousand terrible, unprintable things about someone but only one positive thing about the person, for instance, what Kuwena suggested doing was only to talk about that one positive attribute! Recall the anecdote he shared about the class of students who were asked to write notes to encourage one another?


Finally before leaving this not-too-uplifting issue, Kuwena, I'd like to revisit what I mentioned earlier (in passing?) about the propriety of the word "litany". Have You checked it up in the dictionary yet? Not a very postive word, I must say. Apart from the original meaning which refers to prayers offered to God by a priest, the other contemporary meaning refers to a long, boring account or story. To talk about a , "litany of love", well, is quite a novel concept. Perhaps that's why some people decided to take it at face value, if You know what I mean.

@Stannesi

Really! I mean, I doff my hat! Don't think I've met anyone who's so artistic with these simple, ordinarily dry-looking keyboard characters. Keep it up.

Cheers all. Certainly, the topic's going to change. And while we're at it, does anyone know anything about the dangers of giving out soft loans? I'd like to know if it's related to this issue of investing with "other people's money" or something like that. i.e, where someone puts all his money to work by probably investing it, and then comes along to borrow money from You (without interest, of course!) in order to get by till the next pay day, ,

Happy Sunday, beloved members, posters and readers on this thread!!!

@Jisi et Ken
Too late for you chaps to create the impression of quarrelling fellows! The litanies have already been written, and people's impressions cast (though not in iron). You both remain jolly good fellows, all the same. Cheers.

And speaking of "litany", I wonder why Kuwena chose to call this expression of mutual love and admiration for one another by that term. The dictionary meaning of Litany does not portend much positivity whatsoever. Perhaps that's why some still decided to write about both the postive and negative sides of others. I think that asking me to write about what I appreciate in others does not necessarily mean that the people (i.e, we all) lack faults. Just that for now, we chose not to concentrate on faults, but rather on positive values.


@Opoks
I don't think you should be appologetic for airing your views each time. Being forthright is a virtue anyday, anytime. As long as you are not overly antagonistic anyway. Many of us are still savouring the delight of having U fully back on the thread.

@Kuwena
I doubt it's possible to have misunderstood your last post. At least, the English was plain enough. I really don't think I should take you up on that. One thing I must remind you, though, is that by repeatedly posting such write-ups, U have obviously given all readers on the thread a fair view of the kind of person you are and the sort of views you espouse. So don't keep backing off each time and claiming to have been misunderstood they interprete U correctly.

Kuwena, I don't give up on people and I can't give up on U, cos God has not given up on me either. But I guess that at times it simply makes sense to allow a man explore the path he has chosen to the very end. Well, the Bible is very clear that the backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways.. The point is that you are yet to see much of life. I recall telling U more than once that there are others around who have also passed thru similar or more traumatic experiences in life but have chosen to leave it behind and forge ahead. In your case, it seems you have clearly allowed such events to shape your decisions, outlook on life, and world view. Well, Which Way NLNG will still be around (I hope) by the time U come back to yourself and realise what U have done. It's well!

Well, well! To think that it was actually during the very same few days I was offline that such an interesting post as this Litany of love would come on board! Actually had a serious task at hand, which I felt required maximum concentration while it lasted, hence I decided to postpone the renewal of my internet subscription for a few days when it expired last week. And before I knew it, the few days dragged to about 5 whole days, nearly a week!

Anyway, good to be back. Am I still permitted to submit my own litany? It may not be as elaborate as some of those I've read, I must fore warn. Just as I must also warmly thank all those who have taken out precious time to write glowing tributes some of us, especially those who had some words for AlfaPrime.

@kuwena
Undoubtedly, this is the guy who started the thread and played his pwn part to grow it to this length and level. Kuwena, U're sure a complex chap; but that's ok by me. What's way off is when a chap gets complicated, which u're not. I have always admired your comand of literary skills and graphic prowess. Keep it up. Seems u could make a captivating narrative essay out of almost anything. I guess part of what has endeared u to me is the common passion for writing that I believe we both share; In fact, the title u gave your autobiography amazingly sounds somehow like that of my autobiography (it's actually more like a summary of my secondary school days). keep up the good work, man.

@Kennosky.
Epitome of versatility on the thread. Talk football, talk investment, talk jokes, talk practically any amiable topic under the sun and he's right there. You're undoubtedly one of the reasons behind the survival and flourishing of the thread. Kudos. U have a way of lifting people's spirits and cashing in on any opportunity to encourage the discouraged. Keep it up also.

@Opoks.
Everyone of course knows that this is the bold, forthright, courageous guy on the thread. Speaks his mind, not minding whose ox is gored, to borrow an already used adjectival phrase here. You also know how to pitch your tent somewhere and stick to your guns. Opoks, while I don't know much of your financial leanings, u remind me so much of what a resource person once said at a financial seminar I attended: "People tell you, 'don't put all your eggs in one basket', but for me, I say, 'put all your eggs in one basket, and then WATCH THAT BASKET!'" But then, in such a shifty, changing, wishy-washy world, it's good to have those who are as true as their word.

@Pak
All hail. Welcome back with full honours. I wonder where U ran to. Your hilarious anecdotes and insighful commentaries on the foreign football leagues have been tremendously missed on the thread. Not mentioning your timely and relevant scriptural quotes. God bless.

@Jisi
Looking forward to talking with you, even if we can't meet in person. You have a lot in common with Ken, especially where joviality is concerned. I get the impression that U're one who hardly ever allows herself to get annoyed, cos you're so willing to see the lighter side of everything. Tell U what, Jisi, if you put up that attitude at work, it's sure goin to fetch you a good pile of work (a la increased targets) cos your bosses and colleagues have marked you out as some one who "works very well, even under pressure". But then, I wager it'll also fetch U some good recommendations and promotions. Stay hot on the wire (thread, I mean)

Time would fail me to acknowledge every other person now. I must come back to finish this noble task as soon as I can. Those who have already printed the litanies (any plural word like that) should please return to this page to print again, so U can also carry my words of friendship with you through the days of life ahead, But am sure that even if You can't, an exellent memory should prove much helpful enough,

cheers everyone, wishing U a lovely and memorable workers' day.


@Kuwena
Congrats on your successful visa interview. Guess time for "parting" (or is it departure) advice will come later. For now, enjoy!!!

kuwena:

Fresh air! Lots of it.

AlfaPrime, I was misunderstood by you.

I beg to shut up and not discuss this particular issue further.

Sometimes I run away with my ideas.

No need to fear.

All is well

Good.
No harm meant, anyway!


@Tommyex
Pardon my delayed felicitations. Congrats on your new phase. To God be all the Glory. While we all realise that a man's worth is never dependent on where he works or what he earns, it's still in order to celebrate successes and achievements such as this. CONGRATS again. Wishing U the very best in NLNG

@Kennosky
U sound quite indifferent about how U performed in the exam. I guess U smashed the papers. Receive my congrats, too!

@Thread.
It's a good weekend starting out. Wishing everyone the very best. Let's keep safe as we work and play. Cheers

@All
Good evening Thread! Regards to everyone. Sometimes these days, one tends to wish there were more than 24 hours in a day! So much to do at work that close of business seems most unwelcome at times!

@Kennosky
Reference to your prevoius post, sure everyone has a sort of "right" to alter the topic of discussion or introduce a new topic, but not everyone may feel like doing so. I've actually nothing against the jokes and lighter posts, cos of course I read them all as I follow the thread, so if I don't respond, pls don't interprete it as meaning that I feel it's unwelcome or a waste of time on the thread.

@Kuwena
I didn't ignore you, and am sure no one else did, either. Like I've just said in my starting lines in this post, it's basically been a time issue. sometimes you get to read others' posts but may not be able to reply immediately.

hoever, if I may refer to some more recent posts of yours, with all due respect to your personal beliefs, it may interest you to know that it is highly preferable to commit your life and future into the able hands of God, than to go by what the stars say, don't get me wrong, funny enough, there is an amazing degree of "accuracy" at times with the astrologers, palmists and such like, just as there is a close relationship between time and space, thus making star-gazing a potential avenue for decoding the future (I don't quite have the time nor interest to go into this in detail); but we are expressly enjoined against practising it or any other form of fortune telling in scriptures. Hold on a minute, now! Sounding preachy, right? Well, it wouldn't be the first time I'd be sounding that way to you, I must agree, so I hope you don't lose your cool over it. Just consider these words in the cool of your heart. Several times we have a need to know what the future (either tomorrow, next week, this month, etc) may have in store for us, but because God wants us to live by faith, He prefers us to place implicit faith in Him and trust Him to see us through. In order words, we allow Him to reveal to us through means acceptable to Him, those things concerning our future that He deems fit to let us know, and as for the rest, we simply take them as they come, KNOWING that He is well able to bring us through whatever He brings us to.

Didn't quite know what to make of your strange advocation for secret cults. Had to look at the post again to be sure of what I was reading and who posted it. Unless you somehow have your own definition which is startlingly different from the usual. But it's on record that secret cults are never organisations that members want to own up openly to belonging to. Besides, they certainly CANNOT solve man's problem permanently, because ALL secret cults have one fundamental flaw which disqualifies them as a source of lasting solution to the endemic problems of mankind. The flaw? FEAR, the presence of cold, sickening fear, which is the bedrock on which evey secret cult thrives. Not fear of the future, this time, but simply fear of the repercussions of going against the establishment in that cult/society. And so, people's consciences are sold and skewered, they simply live by the rules, hoping for a better deal, but all the while knowing that the rule does not permit any form of grumbling, complaining, or even chickening out, regardless of what comes!

Why would you even consider them in the first place? discontent with your job? I understand the dilemma you're in - when U must work in a place where you detest with a passion, yet have (no choice?) than to continue. But the solution is not fetish, but faith. Simple trust in God who has brought you thus far. And Whom you can be sure will see you through the present and future. I'll however, leave further discussions on these for now.

Hope I've not bored anyone with these (old school?) ideas? Sorry, forgive me if I have. Great day ahead, everyone!

@Annify
Of course, U can never compare saving with investment. I didn't mean dry, meaningless saving. That would be akin to miserliness! What I meant was saving as a means of raising capital for an investment venture. Actually, I take my guidance in this regard from the the Lord Jesus' parable of the talents. Notice that it was only after one servant had hidden his talent in the ground that the master asked him why he couldn't have at least saved the money with the bankers. In other words, saving is the least U could do with your resources. the first and most preferred is actually to invest it. Fine, but u can't really build up a good enough capital for the investment without some period of saving, and note also that the basic personal fiscal discipline needed for both saving and investment are the same.

@Opoks
U're welcome back warmly, brother! I feel U when I consider the reasons u just revealed as what made u trip off for so long. In fact, I get the impression that, (like I do at times) during your comatose period u were actually still visiting the thread regularly without making contributions. At times it's a bit difficult to break the flow of a certain conversation on the thread without appearing a bit rude, but it's ok. At least you're fully back with the house now.

@Jisi
U said something that just caught my attention. can u reach me on onyx@bornagain.com? I'd like to discuss some business with you.

@Kennosky et al
The intensive training course I had throughout this week gave me an idea of how it must have been with u all this while. keep the dream high!

Stay blessed all. It's Friday again and promising to be a great weekend, especially for those of us all who have been grappling with increasing mountains of work!

I can actually see some very incisive points raised on this thread by the last few contributors.
1. It's possible he has already been going to Germany for medical attention b4 becoming the president (i.e, apart from the one we all knew of during the PDP campaigns last year). ALthough this is highly doubtful and can always be easily verified, the fact still remains that even if he was going there for medical attention previously, he is now going there funded entirely by tax-payers' sweat, and if he's a true patriot, he should have stopped doing that by now. Otherwise the implication is that he is simply advising poor Nigerians who are suffering from similar ailments to his to prepare to die, if they cannot sponsor themselves abroad for such treatment that's basic.

2. 2ndly, sincerity, honesty and straightforwardness in government cannot be overemphasized. NOBODY needs to go abroad for a routine check up, or treatment for "allergies", but if it's something more serious, then Nigerians deserve details. don't say it's minor and yet u give it attention equivalent to a great distress!

Hi all, Long waited to see some intellectualism and pragmatism show up on the thread again, especially with regards to some unfinished discussions about the way forward for our beloved country, How's work going for every1?

@ Kuwena
COMMENDABLE. Prudent, dogged savings is always the starting point towards any good business investment. As my broker puts it succinctly, it pays to be a super saver than to be a big spender, Whole lot of the things we spend money on are simply not needed at this point in time.

@ Stan
Buy Land? Very good idea too, but depends on how much capital you're willing to commit to it and how much time U can wait. Undeveloped land could really tie up some good capital which, if traded in stocks, is sure to multiply itself in a way that would guarantee you much greater returns to still buy the land and possibly develope it!

Well, unfortunately, its not only Govt money, it's also tax payers money, public funds, and precious govt/offical public time that is being spent on all these foreign travels. Much as we wish the president well in his health, no well-meaning, patriotic Nigerian will be happy to hear that about all these flying abroad for medical treatment. Height of hypocrisy. He has had a year now in office to have at least put the Abuja hospital in such a hi-tech state that a foreign trip would be unneccesary, but here we are, all talk and no action.

@Kuwena,

Kennosky's last post captures the recent developments about the Zimbabwe situation. You can't expect a group of African despots not to cover up for one of their own, but we expect that soonest, Mugabe will have no option but to shamefully give way for the true winner of the election to emerge. I think the greatest good so far was even that they couldn't rig the election results to favour him from the start. It would have sounded like the empty whinning of a loser if he had been initially declared winner only for the opposition MDC to claim rigging., As it stands now, the whole world knows the truth. It's only a matter of time and appropriate application of pressure.

Could anyone help me with the format of PZ test, pls?

@Skeelo
Welcome back! The thread has actually missed U much.

@Jisi
I doubt if you can seriously talk about raising or meeting your target thru this thread without giving it an illegal or unscrupulous  bent, perchance an EFCC official decides to peruse the thread. I'd advise however, that if your're serious, you could drop contact numbers or email addys and let's see what could follow. But the fact remains that it would really be cool if we could help each other in such ways, to whatever extent, little or much.

@Others
Greetings to the entire house. Must say it's not been easy the past few days coping with the pressure of work and the incidence of fuel scarcity. Let's hope this season blows over quick!

Yea, happy anniversary to this great thread! It's really been a long and eventful year since Kuwena dropped those terrific lines of the initial post precisely at 3:56pm on April 8, '07. Went thru the 1st page again and discovered that NONE of the current regulars on the thread as at today, even posted in the entire first page of this thread, apart from Kuwena of course.
Goes to show that it's not how U start but how well U finish that counts in life, again, the great ones usualy start great ideas small but other great ones are skilled in making those small ideas great ventures.

May these words encourage us as we proceed in our honourable labours this week.
Cheers!

Hi all,
Please, please, let's not trivialise this important topic. The matter at stake is that she has finally been declared wanted by the EFCC, and she'll be picked up and arraigned the moment she steps foot on Nigerian soil again after she returns from Cuba. Methinks it's a good sign, whether she's named Iyabo, Iyabe, Yetunde, or even Angel. Issue is that if she had done Nigeria proud like the Ngozi Iweala's and the Dora Akunyili's, many would have loved to name their lovely kids Iyabo!

Now for the big catch: baba himself still has to appear and answer for his deeds.

touche, Kuwena. Nothing more to add. You need God, He loves U, so come back to Him.

Happy, glorious weekend, all! Good to take out a little time to reflect on the happenings of the previous week again, and appreciate how time is really flying these days.

@Kennosky
Not been so silent, anyway. Just that I had to spend several hours at work today, trying to beat a deadline of some sort. Bottomline conclusion: Thank God for the privilege of work!

JISIDAISY:


Kuwena,
Whatever made you think you are no longer of any use(now u are making speak crap english ). It was you who started the thread. You didnt get NLNG but the thread you started has continued. You are blessed than you care to imagine. you have brought people who would have otherwise never met togeda. you have made people friends from this thread. from the north, south, east and west, uniting us, making us feel like a family. these are people who still have not physicall met eachother. and its all thanks to you. there would be no thread without you Kuwena. Remember that.
Being a christian I believe is not being religious. it is a way of life you have chosen. God isnt punishing you----------the way i see it, its you punishing yourself. Kuwena, if you need pity, you will get it. loads of it.-----but then what would you do with it? I don't know how your relationship was with God before now, but I will tell you this. You should see God as a father, when you are down and out, cry. don't be afraid to cry-----infact there is strength in crying.

@Kuwena
Up to this point I just quoted in Jisi's post, I'd say I agree with her 100% (b4 she went full blast, tho! ). You just have to see God as Father. That's all! Most of our worryings and frettings would be totally unnecessary if we just realise that God's eyes are always on us, and He has no favourites. I quite appreciate your last post cos it was really descriptive of your present spiritual state and also your past journeys. The concept of prayer has been well misunderstood by many for long, as mainly a means of asking God for something, hence U easily associate prayer with problems-God-asking-request, and such words that generally depict a man bedevilled by problems, turning to God for solution. Yes, Prayer is a means of asking, and prayer, many times, is simply asking, but much more than that, prayer is basically communion with God, NOT petition to God. There are 2 sides to it, our speaking and His speaking also, with our listening.

2ndly, I just want to affirm to you, that its virtually IMPOSSIBLE for anyone to feel spiritually up- and doing all the time. Every one has his low moments, when he feels very very un-Christian, unbelieving, unGodly, and un-everything that resembles God, and that's why the Bible from the start lets us know that our walk with God is based on FAITH, NOT FEELINGS!! You probably were a good prayer warrior, and u usually felt good and (maybe religious) when U prayed, but it doesn't stop at that. Christianity is about relationship, relationship with a Person. It's like when u don't feel like talking with a colleague at work, yet it doesn't make u conclude that the person no longer exists! Or for that matter, wish that the person no longer exists. Let me tell U, one of the things U stand to "gain" if your wish that God didin't exist were to come true, is the freedom from the moral burden to do what you know is right. That's why I don't really condemn religion in its totality, much as it must be understood that religion in itself CANNOT offer salvation. Religion, to define it simply, is man's search for God; while Christianity is God's love, longing and provision for man. Now, because God created man with an innate desire that ONLY HE can satisfy, any man who does not know God is going to invariably keep searching for Him, albeit thru other false means - self actualisation, human psychology/ideology,   , idol worship, hero worship, religious observations and beliefs, etc Now, why I wouldn't condemn religion totally, is that when it fails eventually, the way is opened for the Reality, which is Christ. People who practised religion, before meeting Christ appreciated the difference He brings so much more. (eg Apostle Paul). I could go on and on, Kuwena, but suffice it to end at this point. I'm sure U get the point, and that it won't be long before U come back to Him, but I strongly advise against any delays. Make your peace with your God today. Whether U feel like He hears you  or not, whether U feel like serving Him or not, whether U feel good or not, come to Him by faith and be assured that your burdens are resting in His arms.

Ps:  Happiness is based on happenings
              But Joy comes from Jesus!


@Jisi
I admire your optimism about meeting and surpassing your target, but I don't know how serious you are about getting help from the thread. If your are, U know how to go about it, na?

@All

Have a glorious Sunday, filled with rest and recupperation.

@Opoks
Welcome back from your "sabbathical"! It's not quite been the same on the thread without you, I must say. How things so far?

@Jisi
I feel you and effect of an increased target. Guess that firstly means that you've been doing excellently well so far. . But I thought targets are fixed by the employer in conjuction with the employee, instead of just being hiked up or thrown at the employee. Perhaps in the near future we'll look to some of the honourable members of this thread to help wih meeting such targets, U know.

aniffy4eva:

I pasted the link here because' i often wonder at the way some Nigerians react when foreigners allege Nigeria as being the most corrupt nation in the world. I am not really interested in Farrakhan's religious inclinations but i was awed by the passion he exuded, considering the fact that he's no where near being Nigerian. Yes, its true we have our flaws, but can we be left alone to grow/develop? i hope so. . .

As for your choice of Martin Luther King's philosophy, that may have been the case if Nigeria was inhabited by whites and blacks. I beg to diagree. . . I'd rather stick with Jerry Rawlings' stylee. . .

Touche, Annify. I agree with you on those issues. I too was quite impressed with the candid submissions and assertions of Farrakhan. Looked up some other U-tube interviews he granted, and he comes across as a sincere speaker. But that's not to say that one cannot be sincerely wrong in beliefs, U know. In one of them, he was admitting complicity in previous crime,

In anycase, it's appreciated that some people would opt for Rawlings philosophy as a way of dealing permanently with our leadership/corruption problems in Nigeria, , but before U go ahead with that, remember the Animal Farm allegory. Gets very risky when we resort to arbitrariness in trying to fight arbitrariness and corruption. what is the guarantee that those who execute the judgement are themselves free of complicity and will remain saints tomorrow, after executing the "sinners" today? It's a much safer option to follo defined routes and methods, even though the time may take a little longer. For posterity's sake, justice must not only be done, but more importantly, JUSTICE MUST BE SEEN TO HAVE BEEN DONE

Cheers, all!

@Annify
Yea, that post on your blog about Farrakhan's comments was quite candid and adressed some issues squarely. U may be surprised to learn that I'm a bit conservative about accepting the views of Louis Farrakhan generally, cos he passes across as one who is rabidly incensed against the white race, with a religious bent too. I don't think that's exactly what we need in resolving the racism issue either in the west or in any part of the world for that matter. Martin Luther king's approach remains my 1st, 2nd and last option. Peaceful, civil disobedience, respecting the other, NOT because he's a white, but becos U want to show him how he should treat u, in the first place. But all the same, I'd say that majority of Americans already know that American foreign policy over the decades could have done with much less mistakes and bias. a great deal of the issues facing them today across the globe arose from offshoots of their previous actions at one time or the other.

@ Kennosky.
I went from scoring zero in some tests in my SS1 to making all distinctions in my WAEC, so regardless of how the math exam may have pummelled u chaps, there's always hope for a come-back. Cheers!

@Anniffy
Permit me to reply properly to your poser later on, but for a brief, I'd just say that my answer to the question, the way U put is, is a CAPITAL NO. In fact, I'd adopt Kennosky's answer almost word for word. Remember U said if I had all the money in the world, not even all the money I wanted. If I had all the money in the world, sure the last thing in my mind would be going into any further financial investments. I'd just focus on making life better for those around me, you know na!

Actually, even for the very rich who go on making more money, many of them do so not because they're addicted to money-making, but because they got rich in the first place, by getting successful in what they liked doing!
i
So, pls, spare me the details for now, I'd be back by tomorrow. Here's wishing everyone a splendid new Month of April. Let's beware of the dangers of engaging in some practical jokes and horseplay in the name of the traditional "April fool"'s day o.

@Kuwena et al
To all concerned pan- Africans, hope U're following events in Zimbabwe keenly? The opposition MDC has already claimed victory, and the govt is not really disputing it. Seems they're still stunned at their tremendous loss at the polls. Let's just pray the aged President has the sort of dignity and honesty that Pervez Musharaf summoned to admit defeat for his party in the last Pakistani general elections, so we go having a second Kenya anywhere again in Africa!

@Ken
Seems I missed getting you online narrowly earlier today. Good you didn't take offence at Kuwena, and that you strove to explain your previous post clearly. Reminds me so much of the other point you made earlie about this thread, "we share ideas, not vexations" or something to that effect.

@Others:
The weekend's over! We're heading back to work tomorrow, I hope everyone's been refreshed.More power to your elbows, all!

@Jisi
Got your post last time, and copied your views about luck. Hope You were able to get some rest as well this weekend? It's no good feeling more tired on a Monday morning than You were on Friday evening. As someone wittingly pointed out recently, there's a world of different between "Good morning, Lord"     and "Lord! It's morning."     Attitude, I guess.

@Kuwena
The Zimbabwe issue is really not only an insult to Africa but a sign of our present state of poor leadership showing. I strongly believe personally that a people will always ultimately get the kind of leader they deserve; hence, bad leadership degenerates to a point where we have to turn the searchlight from despotic Mugabe to those (shameless?) supporters and aides who have enabled the octogenerian to remain in power. the history of that country will not be complete without the chronicles of those who tacitly, overtly or covertly gave him support. Afterall, it wouldn't take them more than a few minutes to topple him if they wanted. But alas, they must have long become conquered victims of his "divide and rule" tactics.
So let's concentrate on getting the Zimbabweans to the point of political and social conciousness where it would be totally impossible for a Mugabe to hold sway over their destinies, and his removal would be simply a matter of course.

@Annify
I'm sorry. Seems I logged off before I noticed you were actually on line. I'm really looking forward to the next time we'll both be online same time; it'd be a real pleasure to chat with such a great mind.

@Kuwena
Aww, Kuwena. I always admire the sincere manner in which U usually bring your personal travails at any point in time to this forum where U can be sure of brotherly acceptance and understanding. I've gone thru your last post; these are not the rantings of a confused mind; methinks they're the sincere desperate outcry of a soul that has been long disconnected from its ultimate Source, Creator and Owner: The LORD Jesus Himself. God and family are so pivotal to the whole essence and purpose of man's existence, that to be cut off from them both is to be reduced to a mechanised sort of life with virtually no definable purpose. Recall I've pleaded with U severally on this forum to quickly make Ur peace with God; you have been fighting and running from Him with for virtually cause at all. Now, it seems U've finally come to that point where truly every achievement appears to be mere thrash in the absence of any greater, noble purpose for living, which is to serve and please Him. See, it's not about your tribe, name, family background, and all that. (There are also many people from various other backgrounds, countries and even races who have had surprisingly similar experiences as you have)
It's about your world view and how u're handling ur situation!
In all sincerity, could you pick pen and paper and pen down the numerous wrongs and ills U strongly believe U have suffered from the hands of Jesus Christ? and could U on the adjacent page also write down the blessings U have gotten of His hands? Then compare both and let's see what we have.

I earnestly hope and pray that this weekend, U'll shut yourself in alone with God and do what U what U really should about this. I'm not trying to be judgemental though (far from it!!!). Only to help U see that without Christ, your numerous talents would not even be harnessed enough to be of material benefit to you and your world.

I'm expecting good news on your next post.If however, U still need help or would prefer a discussion, you could relay on this thread and I'll arrange for a hook-up.

@Others
Thank God It's Friday. Even for those of us who're planning to work this weekend, let's prepare to also ease off the stress and get enough rest!

kenosky:



I m sure AlFA understands- wetin man go do na?

Touche. I perfectly understand. No hard feelings, no qualms, no stress.

[/quote]

[quote author=tommyex link=topic=48041.msg2098177#msg2098177 date=1206634693]


ALFA
don't blame US oo,all work n no play makes jakc a dull boy^{reason 4 d distraction,+u know what women cause in our society?}
By d way,WHERE CAN I BUY D BOOK?iasked u this earlier,I am sure u dint read my post because of d use of unserious words there,but na so i be,_{seriously unserious}

@Tommyex
Not at all, Tommy. I'm not dishing out any blames. I didn't even say the recent contributions were meaningless or purposeless for that matter; a bit of humour is very necessary,  even in serious discussions of the sort we ususally have here. I only tried to let Kennosky know that I hadn't "signed off" as it appeared, but was more or less waiting for a posting that I could contribute to.

I certainly saw your inquiry about the book. Appologies for not responding immediately. Like Annify says, the book was written by George Classon and can be obtained from any good bookstore, or even from the book sellers with their wares spread out on the ground at various corners and major bus stops. It's not a very "serious" looking book, I must warn You, and not too voluminous either; but inside, it speaks volumes to the reader! Offering several nuggets of money-wisdom and hard core, time-tested principles of financial prudence, the book itself is based on a true assumption that the basic nature of man hasn't changed one bit with regards to his attitude towards money. It actually brings across it's messages coated and packaged in short, witty anecdotes about some dwellers in ancient Babylon. I can assure you that You'd enjoy it.

@Annify
Actually I get your point. I believe that that saying "Hardworking people are usually lucky" is mainly championed by the hardly-working others who seek to blame their lack of progress on the absence of luck on their part. It could also be substantiated by realising that most time, what we call "luck" is simply Opportunity coming face to face with preparation and diligence in a diligent person's. If we care to admit it, some people actually act like they've already seen the very sort of future they're going to have, and are working assiduosly towards achieving it, while others carry along like anything goes, and actually end up going nowhere!

That the race is not always to the swift is very true; but that that scripture also puts it in a context of an exception ( "NOT ALWAYS", hence buttressing the fact that everyone should actually aspire to be fast, skilled and wise, as well as trust God.
So, let's prepare ourselves today for the challenges of tomorrow, even when it's looking like our tomorrow will also be consumed by the corruption and internecine conflicts that have consumed our today. Cos it wont end up that way, anyway,I must say. God will surely see us through!

kenosky:

[size=13pt]Jisi, u posted from the office? You sure say u dey work so? Dis thread is addictive o!

Aniffy, thanx, keep up the good work on your blog- when i grow up, i want to be like u!

pgm, kuwena, kenosym, opoks (seems a lifetime ago), pak, tommyex, even articulate alfa prime- whatz happening? una dey weary? Hmmm! maybe its time for a lady to mount the saddle (Jisi aint doin badly) but lets watch and see- hope she doesnt go the way of jill, lindiwe, abussyaya et al. Lets just wait and c![/size]

@Kennosky,
I'm very much around and have as usual been visiting this thread virtually everyday, following the posts. With every sense of respect and no prejudice to recent contributors, however, I've found it a bit difficult to actually contribute to the postings in the past couple of days or so,,

@Kuwena
We were having an interesting discussion about the Book: "The Richest Man in Babylon" a short while ago. What's your take on the meaning and impact of "luck" in our daily endeavors, visions and ambitions? Is the saying true that Hardworking people are usually lucky?

Well, Easter break's over now. Back to work fully refreshed. Regards to all the folks on the thread.

@Ken:
Which or what issues did U settle at ymca?

@Ken
Welcome back from the team-building sessions. Hope we get to see some of the skills you gathered there reflecting in your posts on this thread. The Easter break is really giving everyone opportunity for a cool-off, including those who had to carry home some serious work just beat deadlines like me!

To your question, well, if I had applied to NLNG together with the rest of the house late '06, went for the 1st and 2nd stage tests in '07, and joined in the 1st phase of the wait from late March till May for the results to be released. I wasn't surprised when I was be told that I wasn't successful anyway, and that's cos of what happened during my second stage test:

It was at Merit house and we had done the first paper successfully, but at the end of the 2nd paper, as soon as the invigilator announced "pencils up" I shaded one more answer. To my greatest surprise, another invigilator standing just behind me instantly walked over, grabbed my script and cancelled my LAST THREE ANSWERS! I looked at him in shocked amazement: He walked away defiantly, silently daring me to do my worst.  However, to my chagrin the same man was strolling around and assisting other candidates, appearing quite attentive and helpful. Some time later, inbetween papers I beckoned to him and, smiling somewhat sadly, asked him why he did that to me. "So that next time, you won't try it," he snarled. Well, I shrugged it off. It was my choice, I admit, cos I clearly heard the instruction to stop; just felt I couldn't let that chance slip by. Hard fact is, in a highly competitive test like that, you don't want to investigate why a script should have THREE invigilator cancellation marks on it! Was the candidate caught cheating? was he caught with "foreign materials" on him in the exam hall? Did he assault the invigilator? Was he, I mean, the conclusions are endless, chaps. I wouldn't even bother investigating it if I were the examiner who came across those marks later. Short solution would just be to lay aside the script for other "markless" ones. I guess the only alternative would have been to immediately lodge a complaint with the test supervisors  at the other end of the hall and get an instant redress, cos what that man did was simply ethically wrong.

So I wasn't surprised NOT to be successful. Simply prayed for a better outing next time, which came eventually. I got a much better package in another company a few months later. No hard feelings to the invigilator,


@ Others
happy Easter to us all on the Thread. He is Risen INDEED, right? Right!

kuwena:

Let's wrestle our minds a bit, then.

You mentioned having read The Richest Man in Babylon, by George Clason. Very swell book, to be sure. I can summarize its principles of wealth creation in 5 points:

1. Find a means of making money, usually a job.

2. Set aside a significant portion of the money you make on a regular basis.

3. Invest the money you have set aside, so that it can yield extra income.

4. Re-invest that extra income, so it can yield much more income.

5. Expand your money-making portfolio, and repeat the cycle of investment.

Question is: How many Nigerians actually do this? Up to 10% of us? Anyway.

Your ideas on the rapid expansion of productivity in Nigeria via the establishment of new companies seem slow. If we are to make the creation of companies dependent on the financial advancement of Nigerians, we might have to wait very long. It need not take a century for Nigeria to turn around her economic situation. How long do you think it took for African Americans to reach their current economic status? Methinks we have to shake things up.

Question is: How many Nigerians are willing to be innovative? Up to 10% of us? Anyway.

I think we are wasting time. I don't know how true this is, but I heard that Malaysia took her first palm fruit sample from Nigeria, and now they have beat Nigeria by far in the production and export of palm produce. This is unbecoming. How can we live with this, and many other anomalies about our system? We do have work to do, other than witches and miracle-working pastors making all the money. It reminds me of Richard Wright's story of a pastor that came to visit his home and wanted to eat all their chicken, and no one could caution him because he was a pastor. I think we need more science and less religion, or at least as much science as religion.

Question is: How many Nigerians are sincere? Up to 10% of us? Anyway.

Let's get back to work.

@Kuwena
It's not about my idea of gradually floating the 100 companies being slow. It's about effectively marrying idealism with realities on ground. To expect 100 blue chip companies to be floated over night in Nigeria would definitely be asking for the moon. I doubt if such a miracle would even happen because it tends to defy the Biblical rule about starting little and growing steadily to become great:"He that is faithful over little is faithful (and will be set) over much"
I do not doubt for one second that we need that number of companies as soon as possible, but to say that getting them as fast of possible is the only solution we need is to say that our problem is without solution, cos they will surely not come that quick. Exactly how many Nigerians have the capital to float even one of such companies right now? Or are we going to depend on "foreign investment" again for that one? Which leads us where? That's why I said we can only get there gradually, as Nigerians are more financially empowered. The NSE and SEC are already doing a great job in this area. U know, the only giant companies of today that were formed overnight are results of mergers of smaller but still substantially big companies; the rest of them grew over time, including Microsoft corporation.Then we have favourable govt policies also. Classical example I would give is that of the historic CBN's recapitalization exercise for banks, insurance companies, etc. See how many thousands of jobs that policy alone has created? Our big banks now advertise on CNN and are talking of taking over Africa and the world. Really, we're not yet there, but we're getting somewhere.

I'm sorry to say this, but another reason we won't get any 100 mega companies overnite is cos of our own endemic challenge: Corruption. But thankfully too, that is being villified overwhelmingly now. All hands on deck. You're right it wouldn't take a century; but it wouldn't take six months either, or a year. Let's get the power sector working first, then we can take count again of how many Nigerians are complaining of unemployment.

Due to the pressure of work on me right now, which will last virtually all through the Easter break, I may not take u up on the "witches and pastors making all the money" for now, Kuwena; but be sure I will get back to you on that.

Great Easter break, chaps! Have a splendid time and return to work refreshed.

kuwena:


Which brings me back to what you were saying, Pak; how we are the ones to wake Africa up, because as it very well seems, we have been wasting time sleeping. And it is oh so very sad, isn't it? But we need mentors, those with plans. I for one think that one salvation for this country will be at least 100 new companies the size of Intercontinental Bank. That would solve a lot of our unemployment problems. But who will build these companies for us? Who?

@Kuwena

Point!
Massive job creation is indeed an acute neccessity in Nigeria and could well provide a panacea for the Niger Delta crisis; however, talking about floating 100 new blue chip companies sounds instantly like a white elephant project, which in this same Nigeria immediately serves as a pipe route for siphoning of public funds, (a la Power supply contracts probe). Always more practical to be pragmatic. Let's start with one more job around the corner for one more man next door to be able to provide food for one more family down the street. I took a closer look at the recently launched BRT scheme in Lagos and realised that it actually has the potential of creating multiple jobs ( for conductors, drivers, ticket sales men, maintenance contractors, security men, etc) and I only pray that the scheme survives and succeeds. The big indigenous companies will come as more and more Nigerians are empowered financially, and enlightened on the basics of personal prudence and financial management. Even the Dangotes, Adenugas, Abiolas and Kalus all started small, some with trading in fish and palm oil. After reading the book "The Richest Man in Babylon" my eyes were opened to realise that practically anyone on any amount as salary could (with proper management, personal and fiscal discipline) grow to become an independent employer of labour. It may only take much more time for some than others. For instance, I know of a simple, average salary- earning Nigerian who was able to train all his children in Havard! Simply because he applied the knowledge of investing in stocks. Each time a child of his had a naming ceremoney, he would gather the money received as gifts from well-wishers and buy shares in the child's name. The value of those stocks grew with the children themselves, and became their passport to better opportunities. Some others who may have received more may have simply eaten some extra pepper soup for a few more days and forgotten about it, only to complain about the government years later when their children cannot get good basic education. In fact, many people there are right now, who have "good, millionaire" jobs, but would look back in some years to come without being able to identify exactly what they did with their wealth while they had it.

Kuwena, we all know for sure that having the Government actively involved in business is well out of the question, as the popular cliche has it, "government has no business being in business"; hence all the government can contribute to our 100 new companies is the formulation and sustenance of favourable policies and stable polity. The final onus lies on you and I in the private sector to do our part. It always pays to start small, that way, more practical feasibility studies are done, flexibity in portfolio change is guaranteed, and of course, the less risk involved assures that u get more interested partners. Did You really wonder why it was impossible to get your colleagues at the Training school to buy into that brilliant idea of yours on how to raise business capital from their hard earned salaries?

Here's wishing everyone on and off the thread splendid Easter hols.

@Pak
Remember to pick the books tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing you again soonest.

kuwena:


AlfaPrime, my dear dear brother! You are making me proud of your mind. I will not be a Christian anylonger; let's not push it, okay? O dear. But thank you. Thank you for caring. I love you, brother. Thank you.

Thanks, Brother. We haven't heard the last of this, anyway!

pak:

@all how una dey?

@Kuwena, AlfaPrime
As per our leaders, without wanting to sound harsh or unnecessarily judgmental, I think they have failed us, they have put the country in a quagmire and I don't think they have any idea of how we can get out of it.

Actually my major fear now is for the coming generation - 'Our generation'. Will we disappoint God and the people that will be looking up to us, those coming after us?

I can not forget a phrase I once heard from AlfaPrime - 'You will become, what you are becoming NOW ! '.

If this is true, then there are some things I have seen and am seeing that gives great cause for concern.

Anyway, I must not fail to acknowledge the positives I've seen along the way in some people I've met. Even God admitted that if he had found ten righteous men, He would not have destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and then Jesus turned the entire world around starting with just 12 men, so there is definitely hope that those of us with vision for our country and for our lives can turn the fortunes of our nation around, if and when given the opportunity, if we sit up.

@Pak
Touche, as I would always say to a post that hits the nail on the head. The matter can't be overflogged. Collosal failure of leadership at all levels. I had actually highlighted on this earlier some pages back, but comments on it were not sustained; as I ponder this, perhaps that's why in recent posts, I found myself referring to "them" as "rulers". Well, their generation is fast passing. We're the generation next, and the onus rests on us to chart a new course.

Again, concerning the ongoing power sector probe, I feel it has the potentials of finally kick-starting the long overdue comprehensive prosecution of key players in the sleaze that so characterised the past administration at the federal level. Sorry to say, but much as I appreciate the current president's stance on rule of law, I realised that he can never fully implement that policy as long as he's willing to cover up the grand set up that brought him into power.
who knows? since the executive arm has repeatedly said that they will NOT probe the past administration, perhaps justice and reprieve would come through the legislature, especially now that there is transparent and focused leadership in the lower House.

@Kenosky et al
Wishing U all the best in your team-building sessions. While am not exactly crazy about holidays (afterall, a week can never be more than five working days and a weekend), I really appreciate them when they come. Especially when one has been working hard almost round the clock! Enjoy the Easter season and let's not forget that the Resurrection is the hallmark of the Christian faith.

@Kuwena
Do make out time to retrieve and revive your Christian faith. Regardless of the past, could you pls for your own sake, return to a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ? Wish U the very best!