The Scorching Sun
The sun has not been smiling these days. It is now very hot and shines brightly from the early hours in the morning till let's say six in the evening. You will have to think twice before you go out and when you do, it has to be an important place. Even when choosing the clothes you want to wear for the day, you have to choose wisely so it won't make you feel more heat.
Thinking about this reminds me of the human nature, how we are never contented. We always want more. When the weather is cold, we complain. We even sometimes say that we prefer the dry season. And eventually, whenever the dry season comes, we still don't get satisfied. We even blame God and ask him to change the weather immediately. Thank God he does not getting tired of listening to us.
One thing I like about the dry season that comes with a blazingly hot sun is that no matter the time I wash my clothes as long as it is during the day, it is going to dry. I don't have to wait for days before I pack my clothes back inside.
Another thing I like about this season is that I get to drink water a lot and not go to the toilet often. I can just sweat it out without stress. But the more I sweat, the more my body needs hydration. It means I have to keep taking fluids like water on a regular basis.
Taking of cold drinks like water or juice can be really nice but it should not be too much because you can catch a cold if you keep doing this. One is most likely going to go for a soft drink/drinks if the weather is hot. But taking of cold things repeatedly can make one have a sore throat, catarrh and cough.
For people that farm, whether you are into intensive or extensive farming, you will have to wet your plants more often than usual since it does not rain regularly in this season so your plant does not get withered.
Staying in a place that is very hot can affect one's body system. Avoid staying in a place that is just too stuffy. Make sure you stay in a well-ventilated room whenever you are inside. Also, wear body friendly clothes. Just because you like wearing cardigan does not mean you should wear it when the weather is hot. You can just keep it till the next season.
Body odour is not something anyone will wish to have. But people still have it. We discover this mostly during heat period as people tend to sweat often here. Let's try to take our baths from time to time. Try to maintain taking your bath at least once in a day. I guess we already can do this. Then, progress to taking it two times a day let's say in the morning and in the evening.
Applying deodorants to one's body and clothes goes a long way in eliminating the big enemy—body odor. Just buy and use according to what you can afford. It will help you feel more confident about yourself knowing you can raise your armpit without it oozing a bad smell. Smelling nice is just very good.
Taking care of one's body is part of self-care. You are responsible for your own body so why don't you take care of it as best as you can then? You will surely reap the rewards later.
What a great week this has been. Happy weekend to y'all 🤭 Do have a great week ahead.
Yay! It's my birthday!
How time flies! I can't believe it's a year already. Just yesterday I was celebrating sixteen and now this.I am so grateful to God. Just like that song by Moses Bliss says, Daddy wey dey pamper, Daddy wey dey bless. Thank you Lord.I am grateful for the big and the small wins; for the good and not so good experiences; for the things I did right and otherwise because in all, it helped to build me.
Last night, I slept quite early because I had a very busy day yesterday but I told my brother to wake me up by 12 which he did. That way, I can post on my WhatsApp status.I almost slept back but by the time my eyes were wide awake, it took long before I could sleep back. I posted a few pictures of me. The first picture I posted is my childhood picture. I like the picture a lot. It was taken when I was graduating from nursery 2 to primary 1. I like looking at my throwback pictures. It makes me laugh.
I am so happy right now because the love is just too much. I received a lot of messages and well-wishes through texts and calls from a lot of people even from those I did not expect. People like @Gaftekloriginal even came to my Dm to wish me a happy birthday.
This morning my family sang a happy birthday song for me and each of them hugged me. I'm touched. Family love is just different.
So, a lot of people have been asking me how I'm celebrating this day or where am I taking them to? The answer is nowhere. I'm not going out today. We decided to celebrate it at home in a little way. It is just by cooking something delicious and by taking pictures. My brother took pictures of me and trust me, I did not wait a second before I started posting it.I posted some on WhatsApp, on Instagram and even on Facebook. I know I am being extra but I cannot just help it. Do you feel this way too? My sister also promised me that we would go out whenever she comes around.
On a normal day, I get tired of having to reply to a lot of messages and will likely take all the time but today is just different. I'm replying almost immediately. I hope I can keep being like this.
A lot of people that I know had their birthdays this month. People like @olasquare, my sister, one of my aunts, two of my uncles and like four of my friends. I'm even sharing the same birthday with our pastor's wife. Not to brag but we October celebrants are just too special and unique. Don't get jealous, lol. Is your birthday this month? Have you celebrated it or you are just about to celebrate it? Anyhoo, happy birthday to you. I hope you enjoy your day to the fullest.
I'm expecting birthday gifts from a lot of people and from Rusty too. Let's celebrate this birthday using BCH😁
So, what does this new year have in store for me? I cannot wait to know and also experience it. So, cheers to more fruitful and productive years, to crushing my goals, to standing out, to becoming better, to never settling for less, to living a life of love and gratitude, to a bright future, to moving with the right people, to being selfless and lastly, to every good thing life holds for me.
That's all I have for us this afternoon. Thanks for reading❣️ Have a nice day!
What it got me...
Winners don't need motivation; they need discipline. ~Damilola Adebiyi
Discipline is a resolution to keep going and pushing no matter what happens. It is you taking those baby steps each day until you can start walking. Discipline is self-control. It is knowing what to do and doing it at the right time. It is you sticking to the plan without wavering. Even when you don't feel like it, you strive to do it because you have a goal. That's what discipline is to me.
You come here everyday and put your thoughts down and share it with the world excitedly. You don't get discouraged even when the tips seem low and it feels as if you are not doing enough and sometimes it feels like the random rewarder has forgotten you but still, you don't get discouraged.
I envy you if you are this. You don't write only when you feel like it instead you act yourself into feeling rather than feel yourself into acting. This is to let you know that you are doing amazingly well.
We have all had our bad share due to our lack of discipline. So, this article is not meant to criticize anyone. If you have not been finding it easy with maintaining discipline in certain areas of your life, don't give up. It takes time. And remember God's got your back.
Indiscipline is simply the lack of discipline. It is not having self-control. It also gives room for procrastination. Indiscipline has cost me a lot. I lost my 41 day streak on Duolingo to indiscipline. Duolingo is an app that teaches foreign/international languages in a simplified and detailed way. So, how or why did I lose my streak? I spent time on other things. I watched a lot of movies and spent hours on social media. Pleasure was more important to me than my goals. That's what lack of discipline does:your sacrifices, time and effort all goes in the mud.
"It is just today I won't read", you tell yourself. Today turns to tomorrow and tomorrow may be examination day. But because you did not read when you were supposed to, you will suffer for it. You might even have to go for night classes more than usual and not get a wink of sleep till you write that exam.
Indiscipline does not eliminate that thing you call a problem; it only makes a problem bigger. It will still be there staring at you in the eyes until you do it. But it might be too late by then.
**Don't be afraid to start over.** No matter what you have lost due to your lack of self control, you can still do things better. I know you will bounce back. You won't keep lying flat on the floor defeated. Rise and give it your all, your very best because only then can you win and have a story to tell.
I will take my advice too. Even though it is not easy at the moment, still, I will exhibit discipline.
Thank you very much for reading this. Do have a wonderful day. Well, we are in the afternoon here. It's just 12:20 Pm.
It's my sister's birthday
No doubt, October is a very special month to my sister and I. We both celebrate our birthdays this month. Hers is on the 25th which is today while mine is on the 27th which is on Thursday. Plus, I'm not allergic to gifts. 😁
My parents gave birth to four children–two boys and two girls. The girls chose October while the guys chose September. They are not twins.
So, on this special day, I want to make a shoutout to the best sister in the world. Happy birthday big sis! I love you to the moon and back.
I love you because you are kind and selfless; always trying to reach out to others. You don't think of yourself alone.
I love you because you are a big sister indeed; correcting us when necessary with love. You are our second mother.
I love your passion for the things of God and His Word. Your have a great voice too.
I remember when we used to fight over the pettiest things like who will sit at the front seat of the car or who is going to watch a particular station on the TV.
I love your calm nature. You don't raise your voice unnecessarily and you are just so understanding. Even when I wear your shoe or take your scarf without telling you, you still never got angry. I made your things our things, still you didn't mind. Only God knows how many my-sister-dash -me clothes I have.
You are my gist partner; no dull moment with you. I can trust you with my secrets and open up without you judging. You are heartwarming even with a good heart.
You love growth; always trying to learn one thing or the other.
You are independent; always trying to make money and usually feel somehow about asking people for help.
Your fashion sense is top-notch to me. You no dey carry last for here. "Mercy, let me help you to draw your edges" or "Mercy, you need to see the clothes I want to buy, it's very foineee", you will say.
I like how you are never anxious about anything, always reminding me that the future is in God's hands and I just have to trust him.
I remember how you take my side and speak up for me when I was small and taught me that I should be gentle and not stupid.
On this special day, I pray that the good Lord will continue to bless and keep you. The lines are falling into pleasant places for you. May you find joy in your new home. You shall celebrant many years in good health and longevity. Enjoy your day big sis. Stay jiggy!
I will give you your birthday gift later. Just accept my happy birthday wish first. It's from my heart.
Thanks for reading. I'm sorry if you don't find this educative or inspirational. I just had to write this.
Do you have elder sisters or brothers? Are you close to them? Please, I would like to know the kind of bond you have with them, if that's okay with you.
Happy Tuesday!
Do you like kids?
Happy Sunday family! Hope we went to church? Spending time in God's presence is a great investment.And remember, God loves you always.
My little cousin came around to my parent's house today. He is a cute little boy. He is a year plus meaning he will be two years old but till next year. He can pronounce just a few words like mummy, daddy, A-Z and cocomelon. It's not that clear
I love babies. I guess everyone does. I mean they are cute, beautiful, innocent, warm and even funny. When they smile and show their toothless teeth, they make you feel butterflies in your stomach and you just try to remember what you were told of yourself when you were a kid and then you just feel like having a baby to call yours, to hold, to smile when they make those soft giggles.
Well, I will say, wait until they start growing. When they advance a little bit in age and change begins having its way. Before you know it, they start crawling. They seem gentle at this stage. After a few months again, they start to walk by taking those baby steps.
But, by the time they learn how to do some things on their own, but their own selves, it gets harder for their parents or guardians. They make a mess of the house or wherever they are, spoil their toys, never stay or sit in a place, let's just say they become stubborn and hyper-active.
My little cousin whenever he comes around makes sure not to leave the place the same way he met it. He will scatter everywhere you will meet your things in different places.
The funny thing about him is that he does not allow anyone carry him except his mom and dad since he can but now recognize people. The only time he will allow you hold his hand or carry him is if you have something eatable with you like sweets or biscuit. If not, he will just wave to you from afar.
He does not even sleep in the afternoon except in rare cases when he is not feeling well. The playful side of baby boys is not funny at all.
I have another cousin. She is a baby girl. She is not troublesome at all. Not that she is dull, she is peaceful. She sleeps. The only thing with her is that she talks, I mean a real talker. She asks questions about everything. Maybe, because she is older than my other cousin. She is three years old.
I'm curious. Is it that baby boys are more troublesome than baby girls? Or is it just the few I have met?
Thanks for reading😍 Welcome back Rusty. It's been a while.
Music is gold
*When words fail, music speaks. -Hans Christian Andersen*
The effect of music on the human mind is just so good. Sometimes, I just wonder how artists are able to express their feelings across through a sound with words. kudos to them. Songs will make you feel like you shared a problem with the artist and he/she in return tries to comfort and cheer you up when you are sad, instruct you when you are becoming stubborn-headed and just be that best friend you need without even knowing you.
Do you love listening to music too? It helps lift one's spirit.
I'm just going to answer some questions about my likes on music. Read on.
**This or That Questions: Music Edition**
**Happy or sad songs?**
It's happy songs all the way. Why sad songs? Imagine listening to a sad song when you are feeling really low—It is not going to help a bit. I prefer listening to songs that will not leave me sad. For a person who is going through a heartbreak, the moment you start playing those sad, slow songs;memories of your past relationship start flooding your mind and before you know it, your eyes is already pouring oceans of tears on your body. Especially when I know the lyrics of the song, I can sing happily along and disturb my brothers with it, lol.
**Single mode or shuffling?**
Well, this depends on how familiar I am with a song. If I am trying to learn the lyrics of the song or I just like the vibe it is giving me, I will keep repeating till I get it. It might even take days. But one thing about listening to a particular song repeatedly is that you just realize that you start hearing the song from within you andyou can't help but start humming or singing the song unconsciously. So I prefer to listen to a song many times before I move to the next.
**Original or remix?**
I prefer the remixed version of songs to the original. It comes with more ginger, sugar, spice and sauce than the original. A remixed song kind of make you nod your head or move your toes. For high beat songs, it's really very danceable.
**Headphones or speakers?**
I am still not sure which one to go for here. I love headphones–it gives me the privilege of privacy. You neither get to hear what I am listening to or get disturbed or distracted by it. On the other hand, speakers just like its name does not keep quiet. I like the bass that comes from it though. Let me just say, when I'm around busy people, I will rather use a headphone but in the case when I'm alone at home, in my room or doing house chores, I will likely use a speaker.
***Fast or slow music***
Why do I have to choose? 😑 The truth is I love both. It all depends on my mood or what I'm doing at that particular time. Let's say I am trying to sleep, playing a slow song seems suitable for this. In minutes, you are already fast asleep and shaking hands with your president (or whatever beautiful thing you hope to experience). Slow music makes me feel calm, mushy and sleepy.
But our dear fast, high beat music is an hyperactive personality. You might even sing, shout or dance along whenever it is played. Please, don't ask me to choose.
Music feels me. I feel, not just listen to music.
It is a great therapist, always trying to make you feel better.
It is without enemies; greatly loved by all.
Music is peculiar, accessible to all and it speaks deep feelings and emotions including peace and tranquility.
Music is gold!
Thanks for reading. 😍
The Yoruba Culture
The three major tribes we have in Nigeria are: Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo. That's why we have the common word, WaZoBia which means 'come'. Wa means come in the Yoruba language, zo means come in the Hausa language while Bia means come in the Igbo language. They all mean the same thing.
I will be focusing more on the Yoruba language and tell you my knowledge of this beautiful culture.
**Greeting**
The Yorubas have a word of greeting for everything you can think of. In the morning, the English will say good morning while the Yorubas will greet you by saying 'Ekáarò'which also mean good morning. In the afternoon, we say, 'Ekasan/eku osan'. Likewise in the evening, 'Eku irole' should be on your lips and at night, we say, 'Ekaale/eku ale' which means good night. Let's say you meet a person or group of people sitting down and you are about to have your seat, you are meant to greet and you can say a quick one like 'Eku ijoko' which literally means happy sitting or well-done for sitting down. Even when you are standing, there is a greeting for that too. We also greet people as they work in their different field. We greet hairdressers by saying 'Eku ewa' which means good job on creating a beauty.
While greeting, let's say your elders, parents or anyone older than you, you are meant to kneel or postrate as a sign of respect. Males prostrate while females kneel. You do this whenever you want to greet. It is required of you. A true Yoruba child will kneel or prostrate before his/her parents when greeting. You don't wake up and greet your parents hi dad or hello mom. If you do this, you might end up starting your day with a slap or a strong word to help straighten your senses.
Also, as a way of showing respect, the younger one must not call the older one plainly by his/her name even if the distance between the both of you is not much let's say, two years. And it does not matter if you are related by blood to the person in concern. Putting of brother or aunty is necessary. A child that does otherwise is considered a spoilt child.
Well, the truth is, we carry respect on our head. 😁😅
**Fashion (Oge Sise)**
The Yorubas are also known for their incredible fashion sense which is termed 'oge sise'. They like to look beautiful and well adorned. To achieve this, they go all out to see it done.
**Tribal mark:** This is the mark given to children at childbirth. As weird or wicked as this seems, yet, it is considered a form of fashion and beautification. It is also meant to let you know where in particular a person comes from. The tribal mark on Oyo people is different from that of the Abeokutas.
**Waist bead:** It is called 'Ìlèkè' in Yoruba language. This is not unfamiliar to us. Waist beads as the name implies, are beads strung into a rope to be put on the waist. The beads come in different sizes and shapes. There is no limit to the number of waist beads one can wear. There is even an adage that says one's child's waist cannot be empty and one will go and adorn someone else's child with waist bead. This shows that waist beads are highly valued here.
**Hairdo**: We call it irun didi- that is, making of hair. For guys, barbing skin and letting it shine is the general hairstyle while for girls, plaiting it is what is applicable here. But plaiting of hair is mostly done with one's natural hair. We have styles like 'Suku', 'Koroba', 'Ipako elede', 'Patewo', 'adiseyin (all back)'. Ipako elede is plaited from the back to the front while adisehin is plaited from the front to the back. The advantages of this making this hairstyles is that it brings out the true beauty of a lady and it is also cheap compared to other modern styles.
**Clothes**: No sane man would love to walk naked, this means wearing of clothes that will cover sensitive parts of one's body as well as beautify one is very important, especially in the Yoruba culture. It is called 'Aso wíwò'. Just like wearing of suits, shirts and ties is to the English, so is wearing of Buba(big top) and tying of wrapper (ìró) is to the Yoruba. We have Tie and dyed clothes, Ankara, Ofi, lace and other good quality-material clothes.
**Ceremonies**
Ceremonies are bound to happen. They are things of joy be it wedding, naming or burial ceremony. But they are not just celebrated or marked in Yoruba land. Certain things have to be done or provided to see that it ends well.
*Marriage*
A marriage is the coming together of two people–a male and a female—to become one for the purpose of co-habiting and reproducing. In Yoruba land, when a lady says yes to a man to marry him, the matchmaker steps back as his work has already been fulfilled. Then, the parents of both families come together, get introduced and plan towards the wedding. The bride's family will also give to the groom's family the dowry list which contains list of the things needed for the ceremony, including the bride price.
On the engagement day, certain goods like yam, palm oil, rice, honey, fish, water, alligator pepper, mat, kolanut and bitter kola are brought for the bride's family. They are used to pray for the couples and then distributed for the major people in the familu like the bride's parents, grandparents, the eldest in the family, the housewives and also the children in the house.
These goods have a great significance and are taken one after the other and used to pray for the couples.
**Honey:** It is called Oyin in Yoruba. They use honey to pray by saying the lives and their union shall not just be sweet but also enjoy sweetness and no bitterness shall be found with them.
**Water:**Water is also used to pray. It is called 'omi' in Yoruba. It means their enemies shall be few or of no number as nobody makes enemy with water.
**Alligator pepper :**It is called 'ataare' in Yoruba. It is known for having a lot of seeds in it. So, it is used to pray that the couples will give birth to many children. As uncountable as the seeds in it are, so shall their children be—many. In all, it means they shall be fertile.
**Bitter kola:** It is called 'orogbo' here. They use this to pray for long life for the child.
**Catfish:** We call it 'Eja abori' here. They pray for the couples using this fish that just how it fights triumphantly in the water with its head, so shall they scale through life without stress.
Now, the holy books—the Bible and the Qur'an have been added to the prayer list.
**Naming Ceremony**
This event holds to christen and also welcome the coming of a baby into the world and the family it belongs. In Yoruba land, boys are christened after eight days while girls are named after seven days. Items like water, honey, catfish, bitter kola, kolanut, and sand are used to pray for the newborn baby.
This is just a few of the way of life of the Yorubas. In true Yoruba language, I would like to say '*Odaaro*' to everyone out there. It means *till tomorrow* in case you are wondering.
I hope you enjoyed reading? How is your own culture like and what's so peculiar about it? Please, do let me know in the comment section.
Thanks for reading. 🤩
Reaching for your goal
*Passion is what pushes you when you feel like giving up. –Unknown*
*When you don't feel like going any further and your dreams isn't pushing you like it used to, please do not give up.*
*Having a dream is very exciting. It brings you joy and you would likely do anything to seeing it achieved.*
*But then, what happens when after a little feeling of excitement you no longer feel like pursuing your dreams? Or life's activities try to keep you busy and distracted from your goals and afterwards procrastination sets in.*
*Today, I just didn't feel like writing and reading articles. I tried but I was not grasping anything from what I was reading. So, I gave up. I decided I was just going to leave it till tomorrow.*
*I resorted to watching videos on Instagram which almost exhausted my data. Then a notification came in from one of my subscribed channels. Thank God I watched it. It lifted my spirit.*
*Her name is Toluwani Okunola. She is a young woman in her early twenties and also a Christian. She lives an exemplary life. She inspires me a lot. Even though our academic field is different. She bagged first class in mathematics and also graduated as the best graduating student in her department and presently a postgraduate student in Germany. I love her humility and simplicity. Let's just say she is my mentor.*
*I came across* @Tomi-Ajax *post this morning and he mentioned why having mentors is very important and also stated the mentors he has here on read cash and in other aspects of his life. You see something you desire to have or you are working on to be perfect there in a person and you get immediately drawn to them. You might not have seen the person face-to-face but the lessons you have meant from them has taught you a lot and you tend to seek them for advice or counsel when needed.*
*About the video I said I watched. Since I have subscribed to her YouTube channel, I get notified whenever she post a new video. I watched it. In the video, she mentioned you stepping out of your comfort zone to see your dreams achieved. Not acting based on your feelings. Doing it even when you don't feel like it because only then can you see positive changes.*
*Reaching for one's goal requires diligence, coupled with commitment and discipline which might mean making sacrifices and prioritizing.*
In all, don't give up on yourself. You might have tried and failed but now is the time to get back up.
Thanks for reading and have a good night sleep.
Don't Limit Yourself
A Limitation: A defining feature that restricts one.
*There is no limit to what you can achieve as long as it is conceived in your mind. That thing you have set your mind to do is possible. But it won't come with you doing nothing. Success is not for the lazy*.
This morning, I watched on TV specifically on Trybe channel the experiences of a visually impaired yet abled guy in his mid 20's. He was not born blind. His two eyes were very normal while growing up but then life happened. One of his eyes got affected and he could not see with it and since he came from a humble background, he got no treatment or medical operation. According to him, his parents prayed for him, took him to church so that his other eye could be restored. But, he got nothing. This is not to undermine the potency of prayer; prayer works a lot.
*Shortly after, the other eye got affected and he became completely blind. It happened when he went to visit friend but he was walked home as all he saw was darkness. It felt as if his world had completely fallen apart. He could do nothing on his own unless assisted by somebody most especially, his mom.*
And for seven good years of his life, he could do nothing. Life was meaningless. His parents even gave up on him and decided that the best work that befits him is to ask for alms from people on the street.
*But, he knew there was something more to him. He was created for a purpose and there is great potential hidden in him waiting to be materialized. He wasn't going to let his disability define him.*
So he started making bags by weaving it with rope. I think he knew how to make this before he lost his sight. The bags he made were displayed on the screen. He even said people usually doubt he can make a bag that beautiful despite being blind.
*But his aspiration for success was of no limit. He once told his mom he wanted to start making shoes. His mom doubted the possibility of this happening. Still, this young man did not give up or get discouraged by his mom's words.*
He tried to make a shoe the first time and he failed. He tried again the second time but got the same result—failure. But it was different the third time. He got it right this time around. Guysss you need to see these shoes you will almost doubt that they are hand-made.
*Now, this visually impaired guy is now a source of inspiration to a lot of people and according to him, 'this is just the beginning '.*
Pardon me for not mentioning his name. It's because I tuned in to the program after they started.
*Thanks for reading. I hope you learnt a thing or two from this story.*
Don't forget to subscribe.
First class begins with first class
I read a book today by Tekena Ikoko. The title of the book is I wish I knew this before I went to the university. It is a very interesting and educating book that teaches students not just to pass through school but school should also pass through them and making sure they don't get destroyed or corrupted in the process.
This great book comprises of different stories of experiences that happened to people during their university days. The title of the first story I read is 'First class starts with first class'. Make sure you grab a drink as I narrate what the story is all about.
For the sake of this story, the major character's name is Ifeanyi. Ifeanyi was an average student throughout her secondary school days. She had just gained admission to Babcock university, a university of her choice to study public health. She went to school with a not so high expectation. This happened in the year 2008.
Then came the orientation program. Since they were freshers, a need to speak to the students was very important. 'First class begins with first class' said the lecturer that addressed them. This word rang in her ears and so as not to forget it, she took out her book and biro and wrote it down. She kept thinking on what the lecturer had said. Does it mean everyone that attended their first class will end up bagging a first class? Certainly not. She had thought. But she knew first class started from what she did with her first class, her first assignments, her first test and exam. Yeahhh
From that moment on, she made up her mind not to settle for less. 'Why can't she be the head afterall', she had thought. So, she knew becoming was hardwork. She ***cultivated*** the habit of studying, attending classes regularly, submitting her assignments on time and praying. Yes, it did not just happen, she had to cultivate and see it happen.
It also meant she had to cut off frivolities and making sure she was accountable for everything she did and the time spent on it. It required her saying no to some friends when they came unannounced to her hostel trying to disrupt her planned goals for the day. Yes prioritising, that's the word.
Then, exam came. 'Ifeanyi, what is the answer to number 4'asked her friend. She was shocked. She thought examination malpractice had long stopped in the four walls of secondary school. She didn't want to be a bad friend so she whispered the answer to her friend. An invigilator had sighted her and ordered her to get up but she pretended as if she didn't hear. She even denied not talking when she was asked. The invigilator had in turn asked if it was her exam or our exam(community exam where inputs by different people made you pass).
She had not learnt her lesson but after three subsequent warnings she knew she had to stop trying to please everybody. Ifeanyi had to change seat when she knew the person she's sitting with was going to disturb her for answers during their exam.
Ifeanyi also knew she could never do it alone so she started depending more on God and seeking Him first in all things. The trend of progress was noticable in just a short period.
Shortly after, their first semester results were out and she had a 4.00 G. P. A. She leapt for joy. She had a C in math and it had affected her G. P. A still it was not that bad.
By the time their second semester result was out, she did excellently well more than the previous semester and even got an A in mathematics. Isn't it incredible?
With each semester, her grades kept increasing for it is not enough to get to the top but knowing how to stay at the top is what matters.
By the time Ifeanyi got to her fourth year in the university she had a 5.0 G. P. A meaning she got at least 80% in each course.
She finally graduated in 2012 with a 4.65 CGPA which is a first class. She also got awarded for being the overall best graduating student in her department.
She had brought joy to her family. According to her, she was no Guru of success but all she did was to follow the laid down principles of success.
...
I hope you learnt something from this story. The world is waiting to hear your own success story so, don't despair.
Thanks for reading🤩
I'm excited!
I wasn't able to publish an article yesterday due to power failure. My phone's battery was dead all through. So, today, I will just run through on how I spent my week.
My sister's husband had to travel on Monday for work so I had to go and stay with my sister since she said she can't stay at home alone. I don't know what she is scared of.
It was very fun staying with her. We talked, watched movies, sang songs we didn't know the lyrics, ate together(I did most of the cooking though), played games and did other things.
I left her place yesterday since her husband is back. Now that I'm home, I really miss her.
Also, yesterday it was announced that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has conditionally called off the eight month strike which means they might still go back if their demands are not fully met. I jumped for joy as I heard this. They wasted a whole session of academic activities. But, I'm glad it was not just in vain as I was able to learn a lot of things during this period.
The whole city of Ilorin was happy to hear that students are finally going to resume and things are going to take shape because the strike has affected a lot of businesses. It was literally the talk of the town that yesterday.
Even on WhatsApp, a lot of people's statuses were just full of fire images and memes relating to school. The one that got me laughing was the one where someone said: you deleted your PDFs because of space to collect Alchemy of souls, well-done.
I called some of my friends too not to inform them about it but because I was overjoyed. Some of them even said they are not ready yet. I just laughed.
Both our first and second semester results are not yet out but I am sure as soon as we resume, they will start releasing it and this will determine whether students in year one will cross to the next level or face Tanke. May we not be among.
At night, after eating dinner, my brother and I talked about a lot of things then we moved to school. We are studying at the same university and we are both in the same level. We talked about how we are back to reading PDFs and burning candles.
And most importantly, we talked about the issue of transportation and how we had to struggle to get a bus inside the school and the same when we are coming back home. Expenses was very much by the time we gained admission so we had to cut out moving to the hostel and went to school from home every day. It was very stressful and we came home exhausted on most days.
We also tried to convince our parent so we can move to the hostel this year. They said we should keep praying for them that there is nothing God cannot do. I believe He will make a way!
I can't wait to resume. I have missed my friends and school itself. I know a lot of people would have changed. Some will look fresher, some will have added weight while some will have increased in height. Meaning comments like these are inevitable.
It also means that I have to wash/clean my bags, buy some books and biros and just try to get ready.
Now, we wait.
Should teenage dating be supported?
If parents were to be asked this question, their answer would most likely be a 'NO'. They are not even meant to know that word or be concerned about it. If our dear teenagers were asked this same question, a resounding 'YES' is most likely what we would get.
Dating according to the dictionary is a form of romantic courtship typically between two individuals with the soon of accessing the other's suitability. Let me stop here. We are all accustomed to this word—dating.
Above I said most parents are strongly against their teens or young adults dating, so who then are those in a relationship? Are they orphans? The answer is no. Well, you cannot blame us with different emotions raging in our bodies and the urge to love and be loved. I used us because I'm also a teenager.
I actually think even if parents vote strongly against dating, still, relationship talks, love, dating, sex should not be forbidden topics to talk about.
Up till now, whenever my dad sees me talking to guys, he will call me in. I wonder if talking to guys is now a crime. I can also remember when I was in secondary school and Facebook was trending. I did not have a cell phone then so I used my dad's phone to login to check recent posts and reply to messages. Then, one day I asked my dad for his phone but he refused to give me because someone sent me a if 'I'm your friend, bestie, crush' message. Mind you, I did not send the message. He did not care to ask further but just made a decision.
Sex education should be taught in schools, places of worship and in homes most especially. I feel parents have a lot of work to do. It's very important. We now have children in matured bodies. Ask your children questions, be open with them, let them be your bestfriend because if you don't, the world with open arms is willing to teach them and the outcome of that might not be good.
We are always asking questions not because we cannot keep our mouth shut but because we want to know more. We seek clarification. We will end up opening up to someone about our feelings, I just hope it won't be the wrong person.
Of course, there are parents that have a good talking relationship with their children. I envy these children. They don't know how lucky they are. My friend was telling me the other day that when she was in Jss2 a boy gave her a love letter and she showed her mom when she got home. Her mom explained gently what relationship and the -ish that comes with it entail. I opened my mouth wide. My mom would have followed me to school the next day. I won't tell my mom things like this because she will literally want to kill me.
So, to every parent out there, try to be there for your kids not just financially, spiritually and academically but also emotionally. I just wish things will be different. This is what's on my mind today.
Thanks for reading😍
Black clothes
If I was to be asked what my favorite colour is, no doubt, I would have said black. I love black. It's beatiful, simple and classy. It's the colour you never get tired of having. Don't you agree? It might not come out bright but still soothes your skin colour whether you are fair or dark in complexion.
You tend to have more of what you like in your wardrobe. For me, my wardrobe is stocked with so many black tops and trousers without me intentionally to do so. Black is just never enough.
When I was thinking of which article to write today for a long time, a thought occurred to me, 'why not write about black clothes? Afterall, it's your favorite colour' So, black it is. I'm even on black trousers right now😁
Perhaps, you are wondering what's so special about black colour that made it become my favorite colour. Keep reading then.
I like black because it goes on all colour-white, blue, pink, yellow, ash, green, purple, brown, just name it. It is every colour's friend. It just seems to rhyme with all colour. You can wear it on just any colour.
Also, you can wear black at anytime. I mean it. Black is not meant for grieving only. When going to school, you can wear it; when going to church, you can also wear it; wherever and whenever. Well, maybe not on your wedding day😅
Black suits, shirts, trousers and skirts are used as dress codes for officials on certain days. Ushers and choristers also use black clothes to officiate. It's even part of the dress code of law students.
What about your black shoes? It's very easy to dust and clean it whenever you put it on.
When you tell people your best colour is black, the first thing that mostly come to their mind is that you are not a neat person that's why you opted for a dark colour, which is not entirely true.
You don't have to be a dirty person for you to like black. Yes, lovers of white are known to be careful and neat people. I love white but just hate how easily it gets dirty and attracts dust or how careful you have to be of where you sit and touch or how you have to use extra energy and detergent while washing to make sure it comes out sparkling white and clean. But if you can maintain it, it will come out well on you.
Be neat irrespective of whichever colour of cloth you wear.
If I wash my white clothes well then, there should be no exemption with my black clothes. Although, black gives you the opportunity to wear your cloth more than once, still, don't wait till it starts smelling before it occurs to you to wash it. Wash, don't just dust.
Remember, cleanliness is next to godliness.
One other thing is that black clothes keep me warm especially during harmattan season.
Truly, black is not just a colour but a lifestyle!
Thanks for reading🤩
Thrift Wears
**Thrift wears** are fairly used clothes sold at a discounted price. We refer to these clothes as second-hand clothes. That is, it has been gently used and left by someone to be bought by another person.
Thrift wears comprises of various clothing ranging from trousers(Jean, pants, leggings, joggers) to top(chiffon, cotton) to round necks to underwears (bra, boxers, pants) to gowns(long and short) e.t.c. And it is for both children and adults, male and female with no exception.
'**Tokunbo**' is what thrift clothes are called in my language, meaning coming from overseas or across the seas. Tokunbo clothes are mostly imported here in my country.
It mostly comes in bails, neatly arranged, folded and tightly sealed.
You can get clothes like this at a **thrift** **shop**. Gone are the days when people hide in corners to buy clothes like this; These days, people buy it in the open.
**Things I Like About Thrift Wears**
**It's affordable.** I guess you already saw this coming. It saves you money. You get to buy it at a cheap rate. You can go thrifting with let's say $10, trust me, you are coming back with a bag /bags full of clothes.
**It is in grade.** That is, the neatness and the quality vary. We have the *first grade*. Here, you get the very best. It will look new, and you can almost doubt it has been used before. To the extent that it's until you say it with your mouth that what you are wearing is from thrift shop, they might never know. But these ones are not easy to come by and comes expensive.
We also have the *second grade*. Here, the clothes are used but do not look very obvious. These ones are common.
And lastly, we have the *third grade.* These ones can be easily identified as thrift clothes without anyone telling you. We can also call them clearance sales. Even though they do not look appealing to the eyes, still, they are rushed by people because it comes very cheap.
*If you are going thrifting, I will advise you go for first grade. Especially, when you are buying umderwears. You can even go as far as looking for the ones with the label still attached to it. It will come out good on you and boost your self-confidence.*
Also, while thrifting, try the clothes with your cloth on for hygiene purposes. Since you might not be allowed to take the clothes home and wash before testing it, then, try the clothes with your own cloth on.
On getting home, make sure you wash the newly acquired clothes thoroughly, in and out. I know the excitement or urge that comes with having new clothes but learn to wash before you wear. This is not to scare you. It will seriously do you good.
Then, do well to iron the clothes. You can even spray it to make it come out well. Stop wearing spueezed clothes around.
I might as well add, that you should buy according to your income. Don't be covetous! Don't do pass yourself. Don't let it enter your eyes. Buy only what you can afford.
*And lastly, be confident. Whether you wear new or thrift clothes, be confident. Wearing thrift clothes is not something to be ashamed of. Never let inferiority complex set in. Walk with your head high up as long as you did not steal it. Shake off the belief that it is only meant for the less privileged and the poor.*
I hope you enjoyed reading this? Do you enjoy wearing thrift clothes? Let me know what you think about in the comment section. Also, don't forget to subscribe.
Thanks for reading💝
Just one time
****One of the greatest regrets in life is being what others would want you to be rather than being yourself. -Shannon L. Adder****
*How did I get here? My life wasn't this miserable? I should have never stopped being me. Now, see me. I have been living in my shell and in self-pity these past weeks. I would love to tell y'all how it all started and what really happened. But first, get to know* *me*.
My name is **Romola**. I am the only daughter of my parents. I have two brothers. My parents income is not that high, neither is it low. Yeah, average—that's the word.
My parents value education and they made sure we attend a well-to-do school with high standards even if it meant making sacrifices. I do love them.
I'm currently in the university and in my final year, studying my dream course and loving it all along.
My parents, especially my mom, are ardent lovers of Christ. They brought us up in the fear of the Lord. "Don't cheat; flee examination malpractice", were their words and they kept ringing it in our ears.
**"I, Romola, vow to make my parents** **proud"**, I said on the night I was to leave for uni. I did good. I read my books, studied hard into the night and took my studies serious.
I also made friends. There were four of us-Bolu, Victory, Annie and then me. I didn't particularly have a best friend as we all moved together. Bolu was the 'heaven helps those who help themselves' type;a great reader, while Victory and Annie were the life of the party. Always saying that you only live once (YOLO). So, why not enjoy it to the fullest? And that life is all about balancing, I. e school shouldn't affect your social life. That sounds convincing and I half-heartedly agree with them.
The truth is, I sticked with them because they were actually fun and friends shouldn't be boring right? Imagine staying together with your friend for, let's say an hour and you haven't smiled talk less of laughing. No teasing, no gisting, you guys are just there. I'm very sure it will be no fun.
Not to waste our time, we were very good friends until exam came. Instructions were issued before the commencement of every exam. The supervision was also very strict, making sure the hall was dead quiet such that if a needle drops, it will be heard loudly by everyone present.
Also, there was no room to cheat.
Our year 2 examination came quickly. The invigilators, although not nice, were lenient with us. Sides talks were overlooked and students whisper answers to themselves of which I refused to be a part of it. It didn't matter who called my name, I didn't answer. Not because I knew it all but the vow I made kept flashing through my mind. "Cheating is cheating! "I would say.
I was termed a stingy person. I was not bothered at first until my friends started to nag me at every slightest thing I did.
So, in year four, I let down my guard. It was our last paper. I was glad I was done or almost done so to say. I was feeling really confident so I sat in the front row. It's two on a bench. My friend, Victory sat at the other end of the bench.
Since it was our last exam, supervision was very strict and thorough.
Towards the end of the exam, Victory was trying to speak to me about explaining a question to her. I gave her a 'no way that's happening' look. She looked at me disappointed. "Why then are we friends if we can't help one another in the time of mind? " She must have said in her mind.
But then, her expression changed to a pleading one. "This one time, please", you could almost hear her say.
I obliged. Even though it was hard to do. But there was a problem:there was no way she can hear whatever I say. I can't be loud or audible enough afterall, we are in an examination hall. "What am I gonna do? " I asked in my mind.
Yeah, I will help my friend this one time. "Now, I know what to do", happy I finally found a way around it.
I turned stylishly, not so obvious, so as not to draw attention to myself and then asked her which question she needed help with. "1a" she replied. Okay then.
I scribbled the answer on my question paper which I know was against the rules. Your question paper should be without ink or led. But, I didn't mind. Trying to be fast with it so as to be able to go back to mine.
Thank God! I'm done! I inhaled deeply.
Now, this is the main part. How do I get my question paper across to her and also get hers without being noticed? A very big problem.
I perused the hall very quickly, making sure the invigilators weren't looking my way. All good. I slid my question paper very quietly across the table. But at that time, that very moment, one of the invigilators came across, saw the paper, went ahead and collected it from Victory.
It was as if my world had ended. The invigilator came to my side, and deliberately asked for my question paper. I couldn't provide it because it was with him.
He took out his red pen. At this point, I was already crying. Then, he wrote cheated in caps on both Victory and I script. Victory was crying too. We begged, wailed and pleaded but all to no avail. It all fell on deaf ears.
...
We were both rusticated. Victory was expelled for examination malpractice while I was expelled for aiding it.
I don't think I can face the shame of going back home a dropout.
My hand got burnt to ashes the first time I put it in the fire.
I have learnt my lesson.
Hello there, I hope you enjoyed reading this piece? Do leave a comment and remember to subscribe. Thanksss
Get to know me
I am so glad to be here on read cash. I've been here before but I couldn't login to my previous account, so, I decided to create a new account. My name is Omotosho Mercy Faderera. Mercy is my first name while Omotosho is my last name and Faderera is my middle name.
I go by the nickname, Mercury. My friend gave it to me. That's my username here as well.
I am African. I was born and bred in Nigeria—a land flowing with milk and honey. I'm African to the core. I love my culture and tradition. It's beautiful.
I am also a Christian. Knowing that I'm never alone and having God as a friend, Father and Counsellor is such a great delight.
I come from a family of six, consisting of my dad, mom, two brothers and a sister. So, I'm the last born A. K. A baby of the house. I'm a young adult though.
My dad is a retired civil servant and also an art person. He makes jotters, banners, signboards, tie and dye clothes, badges for school uniforms and a lot more. Meanwhile, my mom is a business woman and a decorator. She decorates for weddings, birthdays, graduations and whatever event you are holding.
I love works of fiction. I love how words are creatively used by the writer to paint pictures of reality in the mind of the reader. Poems too are a great read for me. Well, I read whatever can lead to my personal growth.
I am an ambivert, having characteristics of that of an introvert and an extrovert. I'm jovial too.
I love cooking and of course, eating butter or definitely not a foodie. I also love beading, taking pictures, singing, listening to music and gisting.
Listening to music, singing along and vibing to the song while doing home chores is very fun. Although, it might end up taking you double the time you are meant to finish.
Yeahhhh
@Mercury1
