₦airaland Forum

ONE MISTAKE EVERY MAN MUST AVOID.

1. Do not build your life around a woman.

That's the greatest mistake a man can ever make in his life, you loose your relevance, authority, leadership delegation on a woman once you start building your life around a woman.

Relationship or marriage is meant for the woman to build her life around a man and not the other way round.

You loose everything as a man if you start that project of building your life around a woman.

Don't mistake foolishness for love.

No woman, I repeat, not even your mother deserve such power, do not give any woman that power at all.

A woman should not be the source of your strength, peace, love, happiness and joy.

Rather Outsource it from your God, yourself and your purpose. That's the primary design, then your woman own is secondary.

If you allow a woman dictate how you live and how you feel and how you react to things then your life is totally ruin.

A man must be 89% independent of his woman's help, superior in everything aside adopting a feminine frame.

Don't give any woman such power all in the name of love.

Don't sell your throne all for puccy, be the king and rule purposely.

Let your woman build her life around you while you build your life around God, your standard and purpose that's the most healthy way to be in a relationship and marriage.

Be wise.

* * *


I was at her place about fifteen minutes to the time she said I should be there, but she was not around, I had to wait at the space just before her office by the aisle. Exactly nine a.m, my phone started to ring. Ms. Morgan was on the line.

"Good morning, madam," I greeted.

"Good morning, Tayo. I'll soon be there."

"Okay, madam."

It was twenty minutes later that she came. As I waited, I reflected on my encounter with her in the last twenty-two hours or so. It was a very fascinating one.

She finally came around with a woman who looked like a Lebanese or something. I still had to remain where I sat to give them room for privacy as they chatted inside the office. Some minutes later, the other woman left.

"Tayo, come inside," Ms. Morgan said.

I found myself sitting where I had sat the previous day. Today, she was dressed simply in t-shirt and jeans trousers. I must confess that she looked beautiful and chick. She also smelt nice. Conversely, Ms. Morgan studied me. She smiled and nodded her head.

"You're not looking bad in your formal wears," she said. "However, you don't always have to be formal in this job. I will give you wardrobe allowance to up grade your clothes. I will also give you employment letter that states your duties and remuneration."

It suddenly occurred to me I didn't even know how much I would be earning. She must have read my mind as she mentioned it. It was a handsome sum of money. I should not be surprised. Her store was worth multi millions of naira.

She went on to reveal that she had two other stores, and that she travelled a lot - within and outside the country.

"Any question so far?" she asked.

I had some questions but I would not ask them yet.

Steve Jobs, billionaire, in his last days before he died at 56 thought of these:

- After all, wealth is just a life experience I've had the opportunity to know. At this moment, as I lay sick in bed reminiscing my entire life, I realize that all the recognition and wealth I achieved are insignificant and lack higher meaning in the face of impending death...

So,

take my advice and be courteous and considerate of others. As we get older, we become smarter and we gradually realize that a $30 watch and a $300 watch show the same time...

Whether we wear $30 or $300 purses, the same amount of money can fit in both..

Whether we drive a $150,000 car or a $30,000 car, the journey and the distance are the same, we always reach the same destination

Food production is a critical aspect of ensuring food security across the globe. With the world population continuously growing, it is imperative to boost food production to meet the increasing demand for food. However, this task is not without its challenges. Factors such as climate change, limited resources, and environmental degradation pose significant obstacles to increasing food production. Despite these challenges, there are various strategies that can be implemented to boost food production across the world.

One of the key strategies for boosting food production is investing in sustainable agriculture practices. Sustainable agriculture focuses on maximizing crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts. This can be achieved by using organic farming methods, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. By implementing sustainable agriculture practices, farmers can increase their crop yields while protecting the environment for future generations.

Another crucial aspect of boosting food production is investing in agricultural research and technology. Advances in agriculture technology, such as genetically modified crops and precision farming techniques, have the potential to significantly increase crop yields. By investing in research and development, scientists can develop new crop varieties that are more resilient to pests and diseases, as well as more productive in terms of yield.

Furthermore, improving access to agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation can also help boost food production. Many smallholder farmers in developing countries lack access to these inputs, which limits their ability to increase their crop yields. By providing farmers with access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation, they can improve their productivity and increase their food production.

In addition to these strategies, improving infrastructure and market access for farmers is also essential for boosting food production. Many farmers in remote areas lack access to markets where they can sell their produce. By improving infrastructure such as roads, storage facilities, and market access, farmers can sell their produce more efficiently, increasing their income and incentivizing them to produce more food.

It is clear that boosting food production across the world is crucial for ensuring food security and addressing global hunger. By investing in sustainable agriculture practices, agricultural research and technology, and improving access to inputs and markets, we can increase food production and feed a growing population. It is imperative that governments, international organizations, and the private sector work together to implement these strategies and ensure a food-secure future for all.

I am a guy very much different from others. While most of my mates would gloat about illicit sexual affairs or their sexual.escapades, I would feel unexcited about such topics. I always believed one should avoid indiscriminate sex and never fancied lustful exploration.

I therefore decided to humbly decline Ms. Morgan's proposition.

She expressed shock at my response. 'You didn't look like one of the born again guys', she wrote. 'So, why are you acting like one?'

'I act based on my personal conviction, Madam,' I replied.

'You didn't even ask for how much you will be paid. The money is good.'

'I'm sorry I don't need to know how much,' I replied.

There was no more reply from her. I was not really happy with the turn of events. I had thought I could get a job that day, but things had not exactly worked that way.

I shrugged, believing something good would still come. At six p.m, I started to prepare what T.K and I would eat for dinner. Just then, Ms. Morgan sent another message.

'This is a clean offer,' she wrote. 'I actually need a Personal Assistant. The job details are as follows:

1. You will manage my schedules: these include setting appointments, coordinating meetings, and organizing travel arrangements.

2. You will handle my communication: this include screening and responding to emails, phone calls, and other forms of communication on behalf of my behalf.

3. You may run some errands: Personal assistants often run errands such as picking up dry cleaning, shopping for some items, and being given other tasks to help save my time.

4. You will be organizing and maintaining my records such as files, documents, and records, both in physical form and electronically.

5. You will be performing administrative tasks: such as drafting correspondence, preparing reports, and handling basic bookkeeping.

6. You will be providing other support: such as conducting research, making arrangements for events or appointments, and handling personal matters as needed.

NOTE: everything is formal and official. There will be NOTHING sexual or sensuous directly or indirectly.'


I could not but smile as I read this latest message. I had got three offers from her that day alone: from office assistant to escort, and now personal assistant. What an eventful day.

The last part of her latest offer made a big difference. I smiled to myself.

'Okay, madam,' I replied.' 'I really appreciate your offer. You can count on me.'

'Good. See you tomorrow at the plaza by ten a.m.'

I smiled again. What an eventful day.


* * *

YOUNG MEN LET ME BE HONEST WITH YOU TODAY.
You see that girl you are dating now, she has a higher chance of making it in life faster than you.
This is why you shouldn't spend all your youthfulness building relationship with a woman.

The truth is she can easily walk out of that relationship and go ahead and marry an already made man, a man who has figured his life out, who has money and enough resources and on the strength of her marriage with the already made man she has made it in life.
Whereas, you as a man is own your own, nobody is coming to save you, nobody cares about you, people don't even love you until you have value.

You see why investing all your youthfulness with a woman can be very dangerous and unhealthy for your future.

Women has more leverage early in life than man, like this like this, she's already winning you, the world is more fair to her than you and this is why you need to focus more on your purpose than you are focusing on her.
If you fail to make it in life, you will suffer in her hand, she will finally dump you for another man who didn't fail to make it.

Forget all those romantic bullishit she use to assure you " that she will be with you forever" its a lie, when jungle mature she will disappear.

The truth is most women are just managing your brokeness because they don't have a better option yet the moment a better option present itself she will abandon you and forget all your sacrifices and all her words, women knows nothing like loyalty.

This is why as a young man, you don't have to spend all your time focusing and chasing women up and down, women are big distraction to a man who is not purpose driven.

They will drain you and leave you.
Hustle for yourself, take your life more serious, read books, learn skills, develop and harness your masculine power, be more focus on becoming a better man, invest in your mind at the end of this is the only thing that will never leave you through thick and thin.
COPIED ‼️

John D. Rockefeller was the welthiest American of all time and was once among the richest man in the world. By age 25, he controlled one of the largest oil refineries in the US. By age 31, he had become the world’s largest oil refiner. By age 38, he commanded 90% of the oil refined in the U.S.

By 50, he was the richest man in the country. As a young man, every decision, attitude, and relationship was tailored to create his personal power and wealth.

But at the age of 53, he became ill. His entire body became racked with pain and he lost all of his hair. In complete agony, the billionaire who could buy anything he wanted, but he could only digest soup and crackers. An associate wrote, He could not sleep, would not smile and nothing in life meant anything to him. His personal, highly skilled physicians predicted he would die within a year.

As he approached death he awoke one morning with the vague realization of not being able to take any of his wealth with him into the next world. The man who could control the business world suddenly realized he was not in control of his own life. He was left with a choice.

So, he called his attorneys, accountants, and managers and announced that he wanted to channel his Assets to Hospitals, Research, and Charity work. John D. Rockefeller established his Foundation.

This new direction eventually led to the discovery of Penicillin, cures for Malaria, Tuberculosis and Diphtheria.

But perhaps the most amazing part of Rockefeller’s story is that the moment he began to give back a portion of all that he had earned, his body’s chemistry was altered so significantly that he got better. It looked as if he would die at 53 but he lived until 98 yrs. old.

Rockefeller discovered the power of gratitude and philanthropy, giving away the majority of his wealth. This act not only healed him but also made him whole. The happiness he felt in sharing his blessings is one thing that healed him.

In his later years, he reflected in his diary:

“God taught me that everything belongs to Him, and I am merely a channel to fulfill His wishes. My life has been a long, happy journey, full of work and play. I let go of worry, and God was good to me every day.”

Selflessness is a virtue that is often admired and valued in individuals across different cultures and societies. It is the act of putting the needs and well-being of others before one's own interests, desires, and concerns. While it may seem counterintuitive in a world that often celebrates self-promotion and individual success, selflessness plays a crucial role in fostering positive relationships, building strong communities, and promoting a more harmonious society.

One of the key aspects of selflessness is empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. By practicing empathy and putting oneself in another person's shoes, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of the needs and struggles of those around them. This can lead to more compassionate interactions and a greater sense of connection with others. In relationships, whether they be familial, romantic, or platonic, selflessness is crucial for maintaining trust, respect, and mutual support. When individuals prioritize the well-being of their loved ones above their own desires, conflicts can be resolved more easily, and bonds can be strengthened.

Selflessness also plays a significant role in building strong communities. When individuals are willing to contribute their time, resources, and skills for the greater good, communities can thrive and grow in a sustainable way. Acts of selflessness, such as volunteering, charitable giving, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need, can create a ripple effect of positivity that benefits not only the recipients but also the givers themselves. By fostering a culture of selflessness within a community, individuals can feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and fulfillment that goes beyond personal gain.

Moreover, selflessness is essential for promoting social justice and equality. By advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized and vulnerable populations, selfless individuals can help create a more just and inclusive society. In a world where selfishness and greed can perpetuate systemic inequalities and injustices, selflessness is a powerful force for driving positive change and promoting a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.

In conclusion, selflessness is a fundamental quality that can enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. By practicing empathy, prioritizing the needs of others, and contributing to the well-being of our communities, we can build stronger relationships, create thriving communities, and work towards a more just and compassionate society. Ultimately, selflessness reminds us that our true fulfillment and happiness lie in our connections with others and our ability to make a positive impact on the world.

Who is the most evil man in human history? What evil did he do? Where did he make his evil?


Idi Amin, often called the "Butcher of Uganda," ruled the East African nation from 1971 to 1979 with a reign of terror that left an indelible mark on the country's history. Born around 1925 in Koboko, Amin's rise from a cook in the British colonial army to a feared dictator is a story of ambition, brutality, and unrestrained power. His military coup in 1971 ousted President Milton Obote and was initially welcomed by many Ugandans, but the euphoria quickly turned to horror.


Amin's regime was notorious for its brutality, with an estimated 300,000 Ugandans killed during his rule. Political opponents, ethnic minorities, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens all fell victim to his purges. The notorious State Research Bureau, Amin's secret police, carried out widespread torture and executions. Public executions and mass graves became terrifyingly common, instilling fear and suspicion across the nation.

One of Amin's most infamous acts was the 1972 expulsion of approximately 60,000 Asians from Uganda, primarily those of Indian descent. Given only 90 days to leave the country, their properties were confiscated, leading to economic collapse as the country lost its key business community. Amin's unpredictable and erratic behavior further isolated Uganda internationally, with bizarre actions such as declaring himself "President for Life" and challenging superpowers like the United States.


Amin's downfall came in 1978 when he ordered an ill-fated invasion of Tanzania. The Tanzanian army, alongside Ugandan exiles, launched a counterattack, capturing Kampala in April 1979 and forcing Amin into exile. He fled to Libya and eventually settled in Saudi Arabia, where he lived until his death in 2003. Amin's legacy is a chilling reminder of the destructive potential of unchecked power and the devastating impact of tyranny on a nation's soul.

My mind was busy. A male escort? I had heard and read a lot about it. In all sincerity, it was not the kind of work that I fancied.

Ms. Morgan continued to stare at me intently. She was waiting for my answer.

"Well, I don't really know," I started. "I think I need to know more about what the job entails before I can say yes I will take it or not."

She expressed surprise at my answer, but only briefly.

"The pay is good," she said. "And I can assure you that there are other perks attached to it. You will also have the opportunity to travel around."

I nodded. "It all sounds good, but I will like to have the details of the job."

It was her turn to nod. "Okay, Tayo." She had obviously read my name from the c.v. She gave me a jotter. Write your number here, preferably your WhatsApp number. I'll get in touch with you."

"Okay, madam."

I wrote my full name and number. I was on my feet again. "Thank you, madam. Thank you for your offers."

She smiled briefly. "It's okay Tayo. We'll definitely see again."

How could she sure of that? I nodded and left her office. The hot morning, going to noon, sun, hit me as soon as I stepped outside the giant building. I walked towards the bus stop.

Oh, what a day it was. Many questions flew in my mind. Who was Ms. Morgan's friend that needed an escort? What would the job entail? How much would be the pay?

I took a bus back to Ogba and walked down to our street. It was noon now. I went to the fridge to bring a cold bottle of water. My phone bleeped to indicate an in coming message. I checked the phone. It was a WhatsApp message from an unknown number.

On reading it, I could see that it was from Ms. Morgan.

'Hello, Tayo,' it said. 'Here are the details of your tasks as an Escort:


1. Providing companionship and conversation. You are to accompany the lady to social events or gatherings where she may need a date or someone to converse with.

2. Escorting the lady to events or outings: These include parties, or other outings where she may need a companion.

3. Providing emotional support. You will be expected to provide emotional support and comfort to the lady you accompany, listening to her concerns and being there for her.

4. Acting as a personal assistant. You may be asked to help the lady with tasks such as running errands, making reservations, or managing her schedule.

5. Maintaining discretion and confidentiality. You are expected to maintain a high level of discretion and confidentiality in your interactions with your client, respecting her privacy and boundaries.

In addition, your duties will typically involve providing companionship, support, and assistance as needed, while always being respectful and professional in your interactions.

Let me know your response soonest.'

I sighed after reading the whole thing. I needed a clear clarification, a specific clear clarification, so I sent a massage to Ms. Morgan:

Will the task involve having sexual affairs with the client?

I knew it was a dumb question, but I needed specific answer on that. It took more than twenty minutes before I got reply from Ms. Morgan.

'What if it involves sexual affairs? Does that matter?'

Ops! I felt deflated the moment I read this.

She clouded her face briefly as she stared at me. "Are you always this snobbish?" she asked.

"Me? Snobbish?" I almost laughed.

Now, who exactly was snobbish between us? Talk about the kettle calling the pot black.

"I'm sorry, madam. I believe you are making a mistake."

She shook her. "No, no mistake. You almost scorned what I offered you."

"Really?" I was genuinely appalled by that. "I'm sorry you see it that way. I'm actually grateful for the offer, but then I can not accept it."

She stared at me fiercely. "You're so condescending. Guys like you always believe you must always get what you want."

See me see trouble. So, for rejecting the offer of office assistant, I had become 'condescending.'

I only sighed without saying a word. Some seconds passed. "Can I take my leave now?"

She shook her head. "Not yet. Sorry for my outburst. Can you sit for one moment, please."

What a situation I had got myself into. This woman certainly had an ace up her sleeve. I sat down on the seat again.

"Forget about what I said concerning office assistant." She smiled briefly. "I was only kidding. Of course, I would not certainly offer a whole graduate like you that kind of job. I actually have a better offer for you."

My heart beat fast. "What offer is that, madam?"

She smiled again. She must be happy I was so eager to hear what she had to say.

"One of my friends just arrived the country," Ms. Morgan said. "She's here in Lagos and she needs a male escort. Can you do that?"

Now, this was the last thing I expected from her. Saying I was surprised was an understatement.

..

...

I followed the security guy down the aisle. There was a glass cubicle that served as a small office. The guy opened the door and ushered me inside.

Upon entering the office, behind the desk, I was met with the gaze of a stunning black woman, radiating an air of authority and grace. She had an elegant air about her, and I guessed she was probably in her late forties.

"Hello, Donald," she said with a warm smile. "So, you're back in the country. When did you come back?"

I was surprised. Donald? Was that the name of the security guy? But of course, she was talking to me. The other guy had taken his leave.

I shook my head. 'There's a mistake, madam. I'm not Donald."

She stared at me for some seconds while I stared back. "Goodness. What a resemblance! You so much look like Donald, my former favourite Uber driver who relocated abroad some months ago."

I shook my head. "I've never been an uber driver before."

She grinned and stared briefly at the security monitor. "I saw you on the cctv and I thought it was him. Sorry for the mistaken identity."

I could sigh in relief now. It was pleasant to know that I had not been summoned to receive any embarrassment.

"It's okay, madam. Let me be on my way."

"Er...Just a minute. I can see that you've not picked any item. Was it that you could not find the item you want to buy?"

I smiled ruefully. "Let's just say yes, I've not seen the item I came to buy."

"My oh my. What item is that?"

I was becoming impatient. Had she called me for interrogation or what? Since I was not 'Donald', couldn't I go in peace?

'I need to know so that we can add it or them to our stocks. What item is it?"

I sighed again. I would have to be down to earth.

"Well, I wasn't really looking for any item. From outside, I liked the plaza and I decided to come in and see things." And that was not a crime, was it? I asked in my mind.

She nodded as if that was the answer she expected. Her eyes went to the folder in my hand and lingered on it.

"What do you have there?" she asked.

This woman could ask questions. What did she think I have there?

"Documents, papers, photocopies of my credentials."

I opened the folder for emphasis.

"If you don't mind, sit down," she said in a gentle tone. "My name is Ms. Modupe Morgan. I'm the owner of this place. Can I see your c.v?"

I nodded, took one of the seats facing her and handed one of my c.v to her. She scrutinized it, nodding.

"So, you're a graduate of Economics with Second Class Upper?" she said almost to herself.

"Yes, madam."

She suddenly shook her head. "I thought I could help. I thought you have only secondary school certificate."

I didn't know if I should be depressed with that.

"Sorry, the only job available is office assistant."

She stared at me intently.

"Office assistant?" I asked in disbelief. Why had she given me a hope?

"Yes."

All of a sudden, I could sense that she would be a very snobbish and haughty woman. In spite of feeling disappointed, I managed a smile as I got to my feet.

"Well, thank you, madam. I think I should be on my way."

It happened at a New York Airport. This is hilarious. I wish I had the guts of this girl. An award should go to the United

Airlines gate agent in New York for being smart and funny, while making her point, when confronted with a passenger who probably

deserved to fly as cargo. For all of you out there who have had to

deal with an irate customer, this one is for you.

A crowded United Airlines flight was canceled. A single agent was re-booking a long line of inconvenienced travelers.

Suddenly, an angry passenger pushed his way to the desk. He slapped his ticket on the counter and said, "I HAVE to be on this flight and it has to be FIRST CLASS."

The agent replied, "I'm sorry, sir. I'll be happy to try to help you, but I've got to help these folks first; and then I'm sure we'll be able to work something out."

The passenger was unimpressed. He asked loudly, so that

the passengers behind him could hear, "DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHO I AM?"

Without hesitating, the agent smiled and grabbed her public address microphone. "May I have your attention, please?", she began, her voice heard clearly throughout the terminal. "We have a passenger here at Gate 14 WHO DOES NOT KNOW WHO HE IS. If anyone can help him with his identity, please come to Gate 14".

With the folks behind him in line laughing hysterically,

the man glared at the United Airlines agent, gritted his teeth, and said, "F*** You!"

Without flinching, she smiled and said, "I'm sorry sir,

you'll have to get in line for that, too."

Life isn't about how to survive the storm, but how to dance in the rain.

6 LESSONS FROM THE HAPPIEST MAN ON EARTH BY EDDIE JAKU

1. There are many things more precious than money

It is easy to be enslaved by the mindset that money is the most imperative treasure in society. Money is always transient, just like most things in life. It comes and goes, but how much are you willing to pay for the fleeting pleasure? The consequences of a money-mentality are much more damaging than the value of money itself. Are you willing to put your mental, emotional, and physical well-being on the line? There are things more precious than money. Here are a few:
-Experiences
-Genuine connections
-A feeling of purpose
-Genuine concern for helping others
-Eddie says, “there are many things in this world that no amount of money will buy you, and some things are priceless beyond measure.”

2. Weakness can be turned into hatred

Weak people lack the ability to maintain any level of emotional intelligence. People who lack emotional intelligence and a strong sense of self are easily influenced to hate. Their values and convictions are not based on strong foundations; rather, they are proponents of radical causes. Hatred is a disease that consumes the human mind to the point of no return, causing significant harm to oneself and others.

“If enough people had stood up then come on Kristallnacht, and said, ‘enough what are you doing? What is wrong with you?’ then the course of history would have been different. but they did not. they were scared they were weak, and their weakness allowed them to be manipulated into hatred ” — Eddie Jaku

3. Tomorrow will come if you survive. one step at a time

The majority of people give up because they feel the suffering will never end. They relinquish control because their vision is clouded by minor inconveniences rather than the bigger picture.

“The closer you get to something, the blurrier it gets,” as the saying goes. Be well-rounded, logical, and foresighted. Nothing on it has the word “forever” written on it.

4. You can find kindness everywhere, even from strangers

If you take a step out of your own world for even a moment, you will notice that you are not alone. The most serious problem is that we cannot talk freely about ourselves, our lives, and our issues. You are not alone in the universe. There are people who would happily assist you if you were willing to be vulnerable.

5. One good friend

“The greatest thing you will ever do is be loved by another person” — repeat this sentence until you realise that love and friendship are the best medicine.

I cannot emphasise this enough, especially to young people. Without friendship, a human being is lost. A friend is someone who reminds you to feel alive.

6. Education is a lifesaver

I do not mean formal education when I use the word “education”. Yes, formal education is fantastic and brings great opportunities, but life education is much more critical. Understanding the laws of human nature, being mindful of worldviews, and knowing how to connect so that your voice is heard are all examples of life education. To be self-sufficient and not depend on others for a good life.

You may not be able to change the world because it is beyond your power, but you can change yourself. Change is possible, despite what you can believe, but it requires discipline.

6 LESSONS FROM THE HAPPIEST MAN ON EARTH BY EDDIE JAKU

1. There are many things more precious than money

It is easy to be enslaved by the mindset that money is the most imperative treasure in society. Money is always transient, just like most things in life. It comes and goes, but how much are you willing to pay for the fleeting pleasure? The consequences of a money-mentality are much more damaging than the value of money itself. Are you willing to put your mental, emotional, and physical well-being on the line? There are things more precious than money. Here are a few:
-Experiences
-Genuine connections
-A feeling of purpose
-Genuine concern for helping others
-Eddie says, “there are many things in this world that no amount of money will buy you, and some things are priceless beyond measure.”

2. Weakness can be turned into hatred

Weak people lack the ability to maintain any level of emotional intelligence. People who lack emotional intelligence and a strong sense of self are easily influenced to hate. Their values and convictions are not based on strong foundations; rather, they are proponents of radical causes. Hatred is a disease that consumes the human mind to the point of no return, causing significant harm to oneself and others.

“If enough people had stood up then come on Kristallnacht, and said, ‘enough what are you doing? What is wrong with you?’ then the course of history would have been different. but they did not. they were scared they were weak, and their weakness allowed them to be manipulated into hatred ” — Eddie Jaku

3. Tomorrow will come if you survive. one step at a time

The majority of people give up because they feel the suffering will never end. They relinquish control because their vision is clouded by minor inconveniences rather than the bigger picture.

“The closer you get to something, the blurrier it gets,” as the saying goes. Be well-rounded, logical, and foresighted. Nothing on it has the word “forever” written on it.

4. You can find kindness everywhere, even from strangers

If you take a step out of your own world for even a moment, you will notice that you are not alone. The most serious problem is that we cannot talk freely about ourselves, our lives, and our issues. You are not alone in the universe. There are people who would happily assist you if you were willing to be vulnerable.

5. One good friend

“The greatest thing you will ever do is be loved by another person” — repeat this sentence until you realise that love and friendship are the best medicine.

I cannot emphasise this enough, especially to young people. Without friendship, a human being is lost. A friend is someone who reminds you to feel alive.

6. Education is a lifesaver

I do not mean formal education when I use the word “education”. Yes, formal education is fantastic and brings great opportunities, but life education is much more critical. Understanding the laws of human nature, being mindful of worldviews, and knowing how to connect so that your voice is heard are all examples of life education. To be self-sufficient and not depend on others for a good life.

You may not be able to change the world because it is beyond your power, but you can change yourself. Change is possible, despite what you can believe, but it requires a lot of discipline.

I followed the security guy down the aisle. There was a glass cubicle that served as a small office. The guy opened the door and ushered me inside.

Upon entering the office, behind the desk, I was met with the gaze of a stunning black woman, radiating an air of authority and grace. She had an elegant air about her, and I guessed she was probably in her late forties.

"Hello, Donald," she said with a warm smile. "So, you're back in the country. When did you come back?"

I was surprised. Donald? Was that the name of the security guy? But of course, she was talking to me. The other guy had taken his leave.

I shook my head. 'There's a mistake, madam. I'm not Donald."

She stared at me for some seconds while I stared back. "Goodness. What a resemblance! You so much look like Donald, my former favourite Uber driver who relocated abroad some months ago."

I shook my head. "I've never been an uber driver before."

She grinned and stared briefly at the security monitor. "I saw you on the cctv and I thought it was him. Sorry for the mistaken identity."

I could sigh in relief now. It was pleasant to know that I had not been summoned to receive any embarrassment.

"It's okay, madam. Let me be on my way."

"Er...Just a minute. I can see that you've not picked any item. Was it that you could not find the item you want to buy?"

I smiled ruefully. "Let's just say yes, I've not seen the item I came to buy."

"My oh my. What item is that?"

I was becoming impatient. Had she called me for interrogation or what? Since I was not 'Donald', couldn't I go in peace?

'I need to know so that we can add it or them to our stocks. What item is it?"

I sighed again. I would have to be down to earth.

"Well, I wasn't really looking for any item. From outside, I liked the plaza and I decided to come in and see things." And that was not a crime, was it? I asked in my mind.

She nodded as if that was the answer she expected. Her eyes went to the folder in my hand and lingered on it.

"What do you have there?" she asked.

This woman could ask questions. What did she think I have there?

"Documents, papers, photocopies of my credentials."

I opened the folder for emphasis.

"If you don't mind, sit down," she said in a gentle tone. "My name is Ms. Modupe Morgan. I'm the owner of this place. Can I see your c.v?"

I nodded, took one of the seats facing her and handed one of my c.v to her. She scrutinized it, nodding.

"So, you're a graduate of Economics with Second Class Upper?" she said almost to herself.

From Ogba Bus Stop, I took a bus to Ikeja. I went to the consultancy firm where I had dropped my credentials, hoping there would be something for me. There was nothing, yet. I worked around as if one of the numerous companies would invite me in for an interview or a job. Still, nothing.

It was a mere fantasy. I walked on till I got to Allen Avenue. At the Obafemi Awolowo Way end, I sauntered on the avenue. Impulsively, I walked into a big store to my right.

As I walked into the big supermarket, the first thing I noticed was the sheer size of the store. The aisles seemed to stretch on forever, filled with all kinds of products and goods. I had never seen so many different items all in one place before.

I wandered through the aisles, taking in all the sights and sounds around me. There were shelves upon shelves of groceries, from fresh fruits and vegetables to packaged snacks and drinks. The smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, making my mouth water and reminding me that I had not eaten that morning.

I stopped at the dairy section and marveled at the variety of milk, cheese, and yogurt available. There were so many different brands and flavors to choose from, it was almost overwhelming. I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the sheer abundance of choices in front of me.

As I made my way through the supermarket, I couldn't help but notice the people around me. Women pushing carts filled with groceries, couples debating over whichgoods to buy, and individuals browsing the shelves with intent expressions on their faces.

Joblessness was indeed a bad thing. How could an energetic guy spend Monday morning looking at items in a supermarket, without the intent of even buying one of them? I was now at the clothes section. The apparels were exotic but I knew they were beyond my reach. I could only looked at the neatly hanged clothes.

A security made his way straight towards me.

"Good day, but my boss wants to see you," he said courteously.

I was surprised to hear that. "Me?"

He nodded emphatically. "Yes, you. Just follow me."

My heart raced. Why would his boss want to see me? Thank God, I had committed no crime. I had never shoplifted before. Why was I picked out among the numerous customers?

I nodded grimly. Of course I would have to follow the guy. We went down the aisle to a glass cubicle that serves as a small office.

"Tayo, I'm on my way," T.K, my brother, called out from the sitting room.

It was Monday morning and the time was about five a.m. He always said this Monday to Friday, about the same time. T.K was on his way to work on Lagos Island and he must leave home early. He was a chartered accountant with an audit firm, while I, his junior brother, was still jobless.

I left the bedroom, went to the sitting room, and followed him to the exit door to the apartment.

"Have a nice day at work, brother," I said, wishing him well.

He nodded and smiled. That was one good thing about him. He was always looking jovial.

"Have a nice day too," he said.

I locked the door after he had gone and returned to the bedroom. It was a two-bedroom apartment and I was 'privileged' to be given a room.

I knew sleep would not come again that morning. I would just loiter in bed until I would get up to take my bath.

I intended to go out that morning in search of a job. I did this regularly. At twenty-five and a graduate, I was still searching for work two years after graduation. I had read Economics and I had always believed that in spite of all the obstacles and economic travails bedevilling Nigeria, I would get a befitting job. I never stopped believing that.

By eight o'clock that morning, I was set to leave the apartment. I was dressed in casual jeans and t-shirt. In my hand was a black folder in which I kept photocopies of my credentials.

Today must be very good for me by the power of almighty God, I said in my heart. I indeed believed something good would happen that that as I stepped out of the house.

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled among rolling hills, there lived a humble man named Jacob. Jacob was known throughout the village for his wisdom and deep connection to the divine. His days were spent tending to the fields, sharing his knowledge with the youth, and spreading positivity and love wherever he went.

One day, as Jacob was walking along a path near the village's serene lake, he came across a young girl who was sitting by the water, staring pensively into the distance. Sensing her troubled spirit, Jacob approached her and gently asked what weighed heavy on her heart.

The girl, named Sarah, poured out her troubles to Jacob, revealing that she felt lost and hopeless, unsure of her place in the world and what path to follow. Jacob listened intently, his heart filled with compassion for the young girl.

With a gentle smile, Jacob began to share his wisdom with Sarah, speaking of the importance of faith, inner strength, and the power of gratitude. He told her that true knowledge comes not just from books or study, but from the heart and the soul.

As the sun began to set behind the hills, Jacob and Sarah sat together by the lake, their spirits entwined in a shared moment of peace and understanding. Sarah felt a sense of calm wash over her, grateful for the presence of this wise man who had appeared in her life.

In that quiet moment of connection, under the watchful gaze of the setting sun, Sarah closed her eyes and whispered a prayer of gratitude to the Lord for sending Jacob her way. She thanked Him for the gift of knowledge, love, and guidance that had been bestowed upon her through the heart of this kind and wise man.

And so, in that tranquil moment by the lake, Jacob and Sarah both felt a profound sense of gratitude for the knowledge and wisdom that had touched their lives, a gift from the divine that connected them in a shared journey of faith and understanding.

I declare that every moment of my life is blessed and fruitful,

By the power of almighty God.

Thank You Lord. Thank You forever and ever.