@Shine2

April 1st blessing Hello readers! Hope you're having is a good day. So I had fun this week at work. There was this business trade fair that I and my colleague were opportune to attend. The trade fair was a business trade fair where you have various people with various businesses at the venue. People from the South-south, south-east, south-west, including the north, attended this trade fair. They sold a variety of products. Some were into imports and exports of products, some were manufacturers of their product. Others, were naturalists, making and selling natural products for treatments of various kinds of diseases and sicknesses.   We interviewed several businesses. We covered recovered we covered various businesses and various events. We were mostly allowed into the premises because we were a media team. Our team was made of three ladies and four men. Two of the men were the marketers and leaders who led the whole movement. They gave us instructions on what to do. The other guy is a photographer and a videographer.    Sometimes I assisted him In taking pictures and making videos with the second camera.  I was asked to talk to various business owners and ask them a few questions concerning their business. Many responded positively, just a few asked that we come back later. We were surveying the various businesses we have in the South East and South-South.   The other two ladies assisted with the survey and in taking pictures with the second camera.  It was a collective effort. We were rewarded by CBN ( Central bank of Nigeria) with a little cash token which we shared among ourselves. They were impressed with how we covered their events.  They commended us and tagged us as the best photographers out of the other photographers who were present. I never expected the cash gift and I was so happy because the money came at the right time when I needed it most. They kept emphasizing us being the best. I and my colleagues began to wonder what special thing we did that gave them a good impression. To me, I think it was how we teamed up together and worked in unity and also because we were made of women. In this town I live, women do nasty things for money these days so they were impressed that there were still women who have a passion to learn skills and work good jobs to take care of themselves.    The photographer/videographer was covering the CBN representative’s speech, I was holding the mic close to the man while he made his speech. The other lady was taking pictures with the second camera and the third was assisting the cameraman to hold the audio receiver. So I guess they saw how professional we were and they decided to give us some cash as gifts. We were so happy that we left a good impression on them. The media company I work with is new and will be launching soon on DSTV and GOTV. Work is been done underground and hopefully, by this month, we will be on TV up and running.    We rounded off with our survey yesterday. We finished on time but we decided to sit back after eating to the gist. It’s been a long stressful week. We started going to the trade fair on Tuesday but I joined them on Wednesday and since then all I can say is that I never regretted it. I learned new things. There was free lunch for us after the day's work and free transport back to the office. The office sponsored the whole movement. I’m glad I was part of it because this is my first trade fair in this city, so I had the opportunity to look around and see how it’s done.   Thank you for reading till the end Have a beautiful week and a happy new month  #loveandlight

Two thing I hated doing while growing up Unlike every other day, this morning I almost missed my alarm. I woke up by 5:00 a.m, checked my phone, and went back to sleep. My alarm rang at exactly 6:a.m and I woke up to turn it off only to open my eyes again and it was just 4 minutes to 7. I quickly jumped up because I remembered I had a plan to cook something to eat before leaving for work. I got into the kitchen, confused and not knowing if I'll finish on time if I begin to cook. I stared at my kitchen utensils and foodstuffs for a while before finally deciding to go ahead with the oil rice I had in mind before I went to bed last night.  After I was done preparing the food, I had just less than 1hr to leave the house. When I was done, I entered a bus at my junction. For me to get to my place of work, I usually take two drops. So I took the first drop and I stopped at the bus stop where I'll take another to the office. As the bus was slowly parking, I noticed a woman standing at the same bus stop. She was dressed funnily but was neat though. Her make-up was funny. She was dressed in old school attire, her trousers, her shirt which she tucked in, and then a sleeveless jacket she wore on her shirt. Then she had an afro wig on. We got on the same bus. At some point, she made a statement to bring up a conversation but nobody replied including myself sitting next to her. I couldn't say anything because, by the time I realized what she said, it was already too late to respond. At first, I felt bad but at some point, I did not because I noticed something strange about her. I noticed how she kept staring at me. I was sited beside her so I noticed it easily. She started at me from head to toe as I was sited and I became sacred. Later on, she began to laugh, and that was when my fear grew. I began to imagine worse scenarios and I started to ask myself if she was okay. I had to turn to her to be sure I was seeing clearly. She was laughing. I don't know what was funny. I was not dressed in a funny way except that today I was looking like a newly married woman according to one of my colleagues because I was in a black gown 😂, so I wondered what was funny to her. I was glad I was almost getting to my location. I finally got to my location and I didn't waste a sec to jump off the bus😂. I paid the driver and left. I could not even look at her again, my eyes were straight and I took off😂  Ok, so that's that. Let's talk about the topic for today. While I was growing up, there were two things I hated doing. First was, I hated going to buy something. My mum and I had some issues because of this back then. At some, I was the last person she would think of to send out to buy something. I hated going to buy something because of the stress of wearing a cloth to cover up my navel. I have a big navel, though has become smaller now. So back then I always refuse to go out like that without hiding. So once I'm going out I will have to wear a trouser and drag it up to my waist to cover up my navel. This would usually waste my Mum’s time because I'll spend time looking for the right trouser or skirt to wear😂.  Another thing I hated doing was sleeping without my wrapper on. I always love to sleep with my wrapper even though there is heat. My dad would always come to take it off and would see me sweating profusely😂. And I always cover my face too not just my body but that has changed a bit over time though. I still cover my body but no longer my face and if the heat is too much, I just cover my legs.  These were the things I hated doing while growing up and I still hate doing though😂  Thank you for reading till the end  #loveandlight

Mothers Happy Sunday readers. I trust your Sunday is going well. Mine is going well. The only thing I'm not happy about is the Sunday rice I missed in the church today. I didn't stay till the end of their service. I would have eaten if I was at home because I trust that my mum would prepare a delicious meal for us as today is a day mothers are being celebrated in Anglican Communion.   Today's mothering Sunday was one I almost forgot. I was too lazy to stand up from my bed to prepare. My night was so short because I slept very late. I couldn't sleep on time because I was having catarrh so I was so restless. In church today, mother’s day was an emotional one. They had a lot of presentations to display. Mothers presented a drama that had a message and the children's department also came, sang a song, and said prayers for our mothers in the church. This one was emotional because the little girl who came out to lead the prayer began to cry as she was asking the congregation to pray for mothers. I was touched. She made the prayer from her heart. It was as though she understands the stress and sacrifices mothers passed through.   The drama was about a woman who bore 3 children. A boy and two girls. They grew up to be rich and were not in the country until their mother died, then they returned. They began to cry. The first daughter announced that she would donate a sum of ten million naira. The second said she would donate a sum of twenty million naira. The first son, after boasting of his position and what his friends abroad call him, said he would renovate the building in which their mother lived and do a befitting burial for her.    The sister to their late mum sat at one end watching and listening to them. She approached them immediately, insulting them. She reminded them of all the suffering their mother went through in other to train them in school yet now they were all doing fine, they couldn't send common #1500 for her to buy some malaria drugs for her to be treated. All the good they would have done for her while she was alive, they didn't do it. It's now they're talking about doing a befitting burial.    In summary of that short drama, the message I was able to get from it is that we should learn to take care of our mothers even fathers now they're still alive. Because one day, they may not be with us again. No matter how little you give to them, mothers are always thankful. Even if you don't have enough, still give them from that little you have because if you keep waiting for when you will have plenty of money to shower her with love, you don't know what could happen tomorrow. Little things matter.    One thing I learned as well from the children was how they defined mothers They explained alphabetically: M in mother means manager. A mother is a manager. She manages her home properly O in mother means organizer. A mother is an organizer, she organizes her family and makes sure everything is in other T in mother stands for a teacher. A mother is a teacher. Mothers teach and guide their children so they don't go astray. H in mother stands for honorable. E in mother stands for encourager. Mothers are encouragers. Even in difficult situations they keep calm and encourage us. R in mothers stands for resilient. They are strong. They keep pushing. After that short drama, I remembered that I had not talked with my grandmothers from both my paternal and maternal sides in a while. So I said I was going to call everyone that has played a mother role in my life to appreciate and celebrate them. I've been able to reach my maternal grandmother and she was so happy. I'll call my paternal grandmother later because she didn't respond to my call. Some aunties I tried to reach out to as well didn't respond so I guess they're still in church. Of course I would call my amazing mum once she gets back from church. In case you've not called your mum today please do so and remind her of how amazing she is   Thank you for reading #loveandlight

No reason at all At the office yesterday, we didn't do much but there were a lot of discussions going around. One of the things discussed was why men cheat😂 There was a lot of argument as everybody was fighting to speak and be heard. Some spoke out of their personal experience, others spoke out of experiences of their siblings and closer relation. Most of the people involved in this discussion were ladies, all single. One girl kept repeating that once you get married, bear in mind that it's likely to happen, that is to say, one's husband is likely to cheat. So once you have that in mind and it eventually happens, you won't feel so bad compared to when you don't have it in mind and then it happens. We had to call one of the male staff to join us in the discussion and he stated that the same way men cheat, that's the same way women cheat too. I think that's not true. I know the women cheat and the fact that we ladies gather around to talk about cheating men doesn't mean women don't. It's just that the chances are rare. Guys don't sit and talk about cheating women who are married because it's common among men, married and single. One of the ladies highlighted that sometimes the reason why men cheat is that once women starts to bear children, they put all their attention on their children neglecting their husband. Sincerely there are **no reasons to justify cheating.** I was listening to a female preacher one time on YouTube. She was talking about marriage. In her discussion, she highlighted how women will go and marry rubbish and come on the internet and say “men are scum”😂. I follow one page on Instagram where people write their marriage issues and I saw one that blew my mind. A lady was complaining of catching her husband red-handed cheating and she confronted him and he left the house angrily. He hasn't returned home for almost a month. This lady has 3 kids and when she talked to her mother-in-law as her mum isn't alive, her mother-in-law asked her to go and beg him at his side chic’s house. I'm like how!!!! Where is our conscience? The story is really funny and heartbreaking at the same time. It's too bad how it's now like a daily and normal lifestyle that everybody has accepted. I heard another story of a popular gospel singer who cheated on his wife and came publicly to apologize to her. Some men wouldn't even apologize, some would even get angry for confronting them. These women whose husbands cheat go through a lot of emotional and mental breakdowns. The disrespect alone that comes from those younger girls these men cheat with is heartbreaking. Most of these women are even very helpless because they don't know what to do about their situations. Sometimes friends can influence a man's marriage that's why as a married man, there are some friends you need to avoid after marriage. Despite the fact that men cheating is common, there still some who try to be faithful. In the conversation yesterday, I said “please my future husband does not cheat”. Yes!! I refuse to have the mindset and take it into marriage with me, because I believe we attract what we think of. It's really important to take precautions because, as a man, you may feel like cheating is not something you can do or would do until you are faced with the temptation. Even the strong in prayer fall for this kind of temptation. Marriage is not easy at all. This is why it's very important that you make the right choice and make sure whoever you are courting, is someone ready to invest in that relationship and marriage. Marriage is a journey where both parties will put efforts to grow together. The love between couples is meant to be nourished daily. It's just like having a flower and taking care of it for it to grow and keep being beautiful. Thank you for reading till the end Have a beautiful day. #loveandlight

Forgiveness: What does it mean to you? The topic above is a very interesting topic discussed on Sunday during the Bible study session. Before that day I already stumbled across a video on YouTube where it was being preached about. I almost did not go to church yesterday because I woke up too tired and in need of more sleep. But I decided to honor God’s words where He said that we shouldn't forsake the assembling of ourselves (Hebrew 10:25).  So I picked myself up and went to prepare. I was late though but I was glad not to have missed the Bible study class. The sermon wasn't preached because this topic took the whole day as everybody found it hard to understand and see the possibility of forgiving as our Lord has asked us to. So let's talk; **What does forgiveness mean to you**?It means being at peace with offenses. It means showing love. It is mercy. Forgiveness is part of the spiritual and physical processes. It's a practical thing. It means to discard, let go, to not hold, wave away, wave aside, to delete. Forgetting involves discarding the offense. When you forgive, the most important thing is to forget. Most times, when we delete things from our phones, they go to the recycle bin. Meaning that we can still go back to our recycle bin and bring them back. And that's not what forgiveness is about. It entails wiping off completely like the offense never happened in the first place. References were made from the Bible. The popular story in the Bible that we know of, is that of a servant who owed his master and was forgiven his debt after he pleaded for mercy. The same servant had a fellow servant who owed him yet he couldn't forgive, but he locked him up. (Matthew 18 vs 21 to 35) Forgiveness is one aspect of Christian life and practice that everybody prays for and expects to get from others but finds it difficult to give to others. The servant pleaded to be forgiven of all his debt yet he couldn't give that same forgiveness he begged for to another who begged him. The wicked servant was reported and locked up by the king upon hearing the story. In verse 35 Christ reminded us that we would receive the same judgment from God if we do not forgive one another their trespasses. **There are two categories of people:** *People who claim to forgive and yet inside them, they're still hurting and if they see an opportunity to revenge they would and* *People who say they've forgiven but don't forget.* **The truth is all are still unforgiveness in the eyes of God.** I belong to the second category. I tend to forgive but yet I keep referring to those offenses or I keep talking to some persons about them. And when I do, I still have this grief in me about the whole thing. But revenge has never been an option neither has it crossed my mind. This means I haven't forgotten those offenses but yet I claim to have forgiven. In Christ's kingdom, forgiveness happens like the offense never happened. So if we say we're Christians, we are to behave like Christ. During the study, most persons related some stories and asked questions. Some stories were family-related. Some said they won't forgive certain crimes because they are hard to do so. At the end of the study, the rev father made a prayer for everyone. He said he could see that most persons' hearts were heavy with certain offenses which were true and noticeable by their responses, so he asked that God gives us the grace to forgive. If we claim to forgive but haven't forgotten, then we're not practicing Christianity. Unforgiveness is a sign of disbelief. Forgiveness is a sign of faith. Forgiveness as we all know is not easy. No one would deny the fact that it is a difficult thing to do which is why most persons find it hard to see the possibility of them forgiving certain offenses. From the youtube video I watched, the preacher narrated a story. There was a certain young man who was training a little boy in his village. Suddenly a fight occurred between his community and the community the little boy was from. This man took the risk of taking this little boy home back to his community so he will be safe. He was able to lead the little boy home safely to his father's house and immediately he got there, he was killed by the little boy's father. Now imagine you are the wife of that young man will you forgive? It's going to be difficult right? **This is why the word of God must be stronger than what we feel. Always remember God's word in Romans 12: 17-21. It will help you daily in developing that spirit of true forgiveness.** **If someone offends you and you don't forgive, what you're saying is that;** *You don't trust God's judgment,* *You don't trust Him to be fair and just,* *You don't trust Him to keep His word.*  **Forgiveness is the highest form of faith.** We do not know how much peace and joy we deny ourselves by bearing in mind people's offenses to us. Sometimes forgiveness might be the solution for most of our problems. We may get healing, peace, joy, or breakthrough if we learn to let go. When someone offends us, we need to tell them. Even when some persons are unrepentant still forgive them. **Forgiveness doesn't make you senseless or stupid.**  We must learn to avoid creating room for conflict and try to be at peace with one another. An elderly man narrated how he gave up properties that were rightfully his to his elder brother who was trying to drag them with him. Today, the fact that they're still talking and living in peace was bcos he didn't give room for such conflict. It's not easy to do but most times choosing peace is always the best. Yesterday I learned what true forgiveness meant and I prayed to God for grace. I laid everything at his feet, all the hurt I've been holding unto for while because of some who offended me in one way or the other. I told Him I'd let them all go. And since then I've had this inner peace and I hope you do the same too in case you are still hurting from the wrongs most people have done to you. Thank you for reading. #loveandlight

I wish I could go back We all have different shades we reveal to every person we meet. You may have a different opinion about this but this is how I see things. I can be any kind of friend. It all depends on the people I meet and the kind of relationship that exists between us, the kind of energy or vibes that's given too. The same thing goes in a relationship. We bring out either the best part of people or the ugly part of people depending on our input, vibe, or energy.  To some persons I've met, they would describe me as quiet, calm, shy, reserved, respectful.  Some would describe me as someone who talks, someone crazy, funny. The truth is they're all right. This is because however they see me as, is as a result of the nature of my relationship with them and the energy they give.  For instance, while I was an apprentice, my tutor was my age grade but she has married already with a child. At the early stage, it was just all about work and work only. So I had so much respect and I was so loyal and a humble servant. Then along the line, work aside, we were having several discussions because she loves to gist so most times when we travel for jobs she would have something to gist me about and I would just listen without having anything to say. I was not still feeling very free with her because my relationship with her started based on me trying to learn something from her so I call her ma. I never felt free with her also because I already placed her on a higher level so I had so much respect for her.  I've also had people I've met and within 3 days of meeting and knowing me, they already know me to be a funny, laughing jackass, and someone who talks. So it all depends on the energy and vibes brought to the table. Most times it takes time for me to reveal myself as well.  At the place I work, everyone there is free and the kind of vibes and energy I get from them gave room for me to reveal that part of me that's free, laughs a lot, and talks too. And my job being a media job needs someone who's very lively so I had to bring that part of me to the table.  So that being said, I want to talk about childhood. At some point in our childhood, there must have been a time where he wished we were grown and bigger so we could do what we want to. For someone like me who liked to lick milk, but wasn't given that privilege to, I had that as my priority that when I grow up and start earning my own money, I would buy milk and be licking in my house. This was because my mum would always not let me have a spoon nor would our house help. I'm sure we all got to that point where we wished we were grown so we could be free to do whatever we want. Growing up and seeing how life is, those things we thought we would be able to do when we grow up, we no longer have that zeal because we discover that life is more than what we saw it to be as a child. I never knew how serious adulthood was until now and with each passing day, life becomes tough and serious. And it's sometimes scary because I just wish I could just put a pause to time and have a break but as they say, time waits for no one. I envy little children these days because I wish I could just go back to those times when the world was ours, we had no worries, everything was taken care of by our parents or guardians, those moments where we laughed hard and played so much like we own the world.  On Friday I was returning from work, I noticed the estate where our office was located had a playground. There was a swing and tennis board. I've never noticed it all this while so my colleague I was walking with pointed at it and we quickly rushed because the both of us showed interest not minding our age 😂. I needed to feel like a child again because a lot has been happening and I don't think I'm so much ready for this adulthood😂 it's sincerely not for me because I love to play. Life is gradually becoming serious after I graduated. So while enjoying the swing, I forgot about all my worries and I guess she did too. We both laughed and discussed our experiences with a swing in primary school. We took pictures and made a video before we stopped and headed home. At that point we stopped I felt a bit relieved, happy, and refreshed while we headed for home. Sometimes we just need to put aside all seriousness, all our worries and have a little fun even at those times life has hit us hard.  As my friend would always say “nothing Dey this life”. In as much as life could be tough sometimes, it’s better to follow life one step at a time, softly. If you rush it or use all seriousness to follow it up, it will choke you. Thank you for reading till the end  #loveandlight

Sexual intimacy: differences in men and women Men and women are different in several ways. God never built them to think alike nor act alike. Men being created by God before women are natural leaders. Women were created out of a man as a companion so a man wouldn't be alone. Therefore it's safe to say women are there to stand as a support system. The men are meant to provide, teach, protect and lead. When it comes to intimacy between a man and a woman in a marriage, there are areas where men differ from women which I'll be discussing below   **First sexual need:** The sexual needs for men are physically based. When the seminal vesicles stores the sperm continually produced by the gonads, there is a physical push for a release. The release happens either by natural emission, masturbation, or intercourse. For the females, the sexual needs tend to be more rooted in her emotions, her desire to feel loved. If there is no emotional intimacy, she may have little interest in sexual intimacy. If she feels loved, she will want to be physically intimate with her husband who loves her. Because men’s needs tend to be physically based, he has a regular desire for sexual release whether or not things are right emotionally in the relationship. While the female's desire for sexual intercourse is tempered by her hormonal cycle. It is far more influenced by her emotional and intellectual relationship with her husband.  This means that the husband must learn to communicate his love and care for her in ways that are meaningful to her. He must learn to speak her primary love language regularly. Without such emotional intimacy, he cannot expect her to be as responsive sexually as he may be.   **The second difference is in arousal patterns:** Men are sexually stimulated by sight to a far more degree than women. Women are stimulated by tender touch, kind words, acts of service, quality time, depending on their love language. The implication of this difference for her husband are that he must not expect his wife to be as interested in sexual intercourse as he is when he has been stimulated by sight. Men are not very discriminating in the female object that stimulates them meaning that they may be stimulated by an unknown female he sees on the road, on tv, or in front of them. Such stimulation is not sinful but it may quickly turn to lust. A Christian husband must keep his heart and mind focused on his wife only. According to Martin Luther we cannot keep a bird from flying over our head but we can keep it from building a nest in our hair. Similarly, the Christian husband cannot keep all sexual thoughts from flashing across his mind but he must not deed those thoughts The husband is responsible for having eyes only for his wife and the wife who understands the nature of the husband's sexual arousal will understand the purpose of keeping herself attractive physically.   **Lastly sexual responses:** The male’s physical and emotional response tends to be fast and explosive whereas the female's response tends to be slow and lasting. They both do not reach climax at the same time during sexual intercourse. Many couples enter marriage with the idea that it is normal to have simultaneous climaxes or orgasms every time during sexual intercourse. Understanding these differences will help both partners attain sexual fulfillment in marriage. Some who do not understand or know that these differences exist may start to think of other things which may cause problems in the marriage.    **Ways to achieve sexual oneness** Sexual oneness means that both husband and wife are finding the sexual part of the marriage mutually satisfying. One of the ways to achieve this is through **commitment**. Commitment is not limited to simply staying in the marriage but giving ourselves to each other sexually. Don't deprive one another except in cases when you agree to devote yourselves to prayers. Commitment says we will continue to grow together until both of us find mutual fulfillment in the sexual part of our marriage. Another one is through **communication**. Sexual intimacy is the result of a relationship and a relationship is fostered by communication. If couples do not keep the lines of communication open throughout the day- sharing in each other's lives intellectually, emotionally, and socially by hearing, and being heard, understanding, and being understood, they cannot expect sexual intimacy.  If couples take time to hear each other expressing interest in each other's experiences and feelings throughout the day, they create a climax in which sexual intimacy can flourish. Couples must also communicate with each other about their sexual experiences. Because of the differences that exist, couples can't expect to find mutual fulfillment if they don't openly discuss their needs with each other. Couples must take time to share what brings them pleasure in the sexual experience and what discourages their sexual excitement. Another way to achieve sexual oneness is through **love**. Love is both an attitude and an emotion. When couples choose to love and express it in practical ways, they create a climate where sexual intimacy can grow. Lastly, **privacy**. This is a challenge most couples face. Having children around has affected them in a way that they don't have private time together. Lack of privacy has led some couples to a greatly diminished sexual relationship. Couples should always find time to share life sexually even if they have children.   If you're still reading this  Thank you for reading till the end  Have a great day today. #loveandlight.

My experience Good day and Happy Sunday my dear readers. I hope your weekend is going well? Mine is fantastic and restful. This past week has been a busy one for me. I’ve been trying to put up with going to work and still running my business. I’m still trying to create a balance. So today I want to talk about my experience at the new place I’m working. Meeting these people I work with daily has exposed me to certain things and the job being a media job, there is a lot of things you get to learn from social media or colleagues just in case you miss any gist online. Firstly, I’m the type that could sleep late at night and wake up late the next day but all that changed when I got this job which I’m still interning for now. I used to set alarm at 7 a.m so I could prepare and leave for work by 8 a.m since I’m meant to be at work by 9 a.m. I would always prepare my things the night before the next day. I would wash my plates, iron my dress, clean my shoes so when I woke up I wouldn’t start doing those things that morning to avoid getting to work late. These days my body system wakes me up even without an alarm. Sometimes I could wake up by 5 a.m or 6 a.m on my own without an alarm unlike before that I do set different alarms. Back then when I was in school, I set alarms at different minutes just to wake up to attend classes. I set first alarm at 6:30 a.m and then another one at 7:00 a.m and yet another one at 7:15 a.m because I’m afraid the first one may not be enough to wake me up😂😂😂. But it has all changed now, these days I even wake up before my alarm, my body system has adapted and adjusted to waking up early. Indeed change is constant. Secondly, I'm the type that gets shy meeting people for the first time, I tend to be quiet, hardly hold a conversation. It could take me weeks to get acquainted with someone new. But that is changing little by little. The way I have been very free with my colleagues just few days into the job is quite surprising. I've already started to show myself 😂 and make jokes with them, have conversations with them, join them in anything they do. I guess that's because the work environment is free and friendly. Even our manager is very free with us and friendly. He plays a lot too and makes us laugh. I feel we both have one thing in common which is loving food. Anytime I see him he's always eating something. He has even shared his snacks with me after he asked us if we wanted to eat and I told him yes whereas the rest told him no. I mean who says no to donuts😂🤪. He wasn't at work on Thursday and Friday and work on those days were a little bit boring. So we had to come up with as directed by our content manager Chief Vera. I had my hands full at that moment so I could not participate but I volunteered to edit the whole show after it's been taped. I taped it on my own because I had to leave what I was doing to join them. I love working behind the scene. I don't want to be part of a presenter or a host of a show because I know I don't have what it takes. Presenting or hosting a show needs someone who can talk and get people to talk too, also someone who can hold a conversation and make it interesting and catchy. So, I feel I don't have what it takes but maybe one day, I will try to have small experience in that field . So after we were done, I started to edit. After hours of editing something funny happened. I went off from my editing app after I saved it as draft just to clear my space in my phone in order to now save the video I just finished editing. I came back to the app and guess what happened? The edited video couldn't open from the app because the original file has been deleted😂😂 Funny thing was, the video was also deleted from my recently deleted. I had no idea that it would happen that way. I'm the type that's always careful when handling things but how I lost myself and became careless, I can't explain. I busted into laughter as I began to tell my colleagues. They all thought I was joking until I showed them. We told our content manager who gave us the task. She asked we shoot again. It was almost closing hour as everyone was tired so I begged them to just try so we could shoot again but this time around we would only choose two topics to discuss unlike before when they did four. I came up with the content and the content was to talk about what was trending, references were made via Twitter. After we were done shooting, I took the videos so I would edit them at home. I'm done editing them and it came out nicer than the first one. I just hope it would impress our content manager when I show it to her on Tuesday. I would also show it to my tutor at the office who's teaching me video editing with Adobe premier pro which I have not started using yet. Probably by next week after I've gotten a new mouse for my system because my system mouse is bad. I'm always looking forward to going to work every day, that's how well I'm enjoying the place.😊 Thank you for reading till the end Do have a lovely day #loveandlight

Is being a fine girl expensive? This week has been a good one. Firstly, remember that interview I told you I want for, I got the offer to be an intern for three months and after that I could be retained. So I started on Wednesday this week and so far, it's been going well. The work environment is good and I'm enjoying every bit of it.  Secondly, my best friend from secondary school got engaged on Friday to the man that rocks her world😄. I have few friends I made in secondary school and since then after we left school, we've been in touch. We are just a group of five. We have this group chat where we come to discuss about things and relationship and make jokes to keep the group lively once in a while. Even though we were in different locations, we found time and space to communicate with one another, view each others status as well. It was indeed a good news and I'm so happy. Because it means God is now in our circle blessing us so I have to rejoice with her.  So I came across a clip on WhatsApp where a girl talked about how she spends money just to go on a date and only for her to come back home empty and not get anything from her date. The second girl with her made a statement. She said being a fine girl is expensive. The first girl mentioned how she spends too much money, starting from buying a dress, calling a make up artist, who sometimes charges #25,000 or more, get her hair done and her nails fixed. After she has gone for the date, she doesn't get any money as thanks for coming. It sounded funny to me.  The way some girls, not all, has made certain things to always be about themselves and money. The question to be asked is, who pays for all the expensive meal you order. It's funny how these things doesn't come to their heads because I'm sure that for a girl to spend so much money like that for a date, it's certain that she won't just go there have soft drink and eat rice. Even if that's what she's going to order for, the price in a fancy eatery may be twice the price of a normal fast food.  It's actually 50:50. You spent money to look good for the date, and he spent money to as well satisfy you, so the only thing required at the end of the date is “thanks for coming”. Both parties thank each other for making out time.  Everything is not and should not always be about money. Don't get it twisted. I'm not saying I don't like money oo, I love money, but the way girls of this generation has made everything to be about money is really bad. That's exactly why this question is being asked lately- “what do women bring to the table”. This question is meant for all those girls that offer nothing in a relationship rather they just keep collecting from you all the time. Such women can be difficult to keep because if eventually, you have nothing to offer financially anymore, they walk away. So sometimes I would advice my male friends to avoid being in such a situation where a lady just keeps taking from you only to drain you dry and after the money has finished they leave. My advice is once you notice this from a lady you're attracted to, if you don't have enough money to keep giving, you better don't even start anything with her in the first place. For the ladies, I think we all should start being considerate, stop demanding what you know you can't even afford. Happy Sunday  Thank you for reading  #loveandlight

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You get what you give In computing, this term is usually used. It simply means whatever you give to the computer is what it gives back. If a poor input is fed to the computer system, it gives back a faulty output. Magic does not happen. Whatever data you feed into the computer is what it gives back as information or result. So to get an accurate result, you need to input data that are correct. Remember Newton's third law which states that for every action there's an equal and opposite reaction. Let's look at this example from Google- When a ball is thrown on the floor or a wall, it bounces back. The force exerted by the ball on the ground or wall is the action force. The force that the ground or wall exerts on the ball in response to the action force causes the ball to jump or bounce back. This force is nothing but the reaction force. Now applying this to our daily lives and experience with humans, whatever actions we give to a person, we get a certain opposite reaction from them. Let me explain further. Something happened yesterday while I was returning from home back to the place I stay. I went home during the weekend to see my parents. I needed to do so before I start with the job I got. Though I'll be working as an intern for 3 months and after that, we know the next stage. I just passed out from service so I had to get something quick as possible to get busy at least while doing some other online work to make money.  So I was on a public transport and this woman kept complaining too much about almost everything. It was annoying because I hate that attitude of complaining. She couldn’t just let this old man drive in peace. Not just that she was complaining, how she kept doing it was so rude and harsh.  First, she complained about the door, which was faulty though because it kept opening partly while we were on our way. He had to come down to fix it up and prevent it from opening entirely. She kept talking to him in an abusive and rude manner which he also was talking back and everyone accused him of not acting right simply because he was responding in the way he was talked to. Funny enough these women have husbands at home and I began to ask myself if this is how they talk to their husbands.  She complained again about the heat when we were stuck in traffic and asked him to come down to open the door. He never wanted to open it because it was minor traffic that occurred. After all, the road is being worked on, and soon, we will move but then her complaint became unbearable that he had to come down to open it. On second thought, he closed it back, but she began to drag the door with him she finally opened it by herself because he rushed back to his sit to move his vehicle.  Another woman was also part of this whole thing, she had children with her but yet kept shouting and talking to the old man in a bad manner, even reigning insults on him. The man was an elderly man. Even the young men in the car talked to him disrespectfully. I was angry about the whole situation but I had to respect myself and keep quiet. If I had the mind to talk I will ask them if this was how they talk to their husbands at home. If they talk to him with some respect I believe he would give back that same respect. They can't expect that he would nicely respond to them whenever they talk to him rudely. After we got to the state the vehicle was traveling to, people began to drop. The woman who has been complaining since became calm and quiet. Guess what? She is not familiar with where she was going to in the first place all this while she has been running her mouth. She calmly talked to the driver to direct her on how she'll go about her movement and where she would drop and take another transport to her location. To her greatest surprise, he responded in that same manner, calmly.  Now that's what I’m talking about. You don't expect people to give out what you don't give in. How we talk to people or lay complains to them, in that same manner, they tend to react to. If we talk to people rudely, they give back the same energy replying rudely to you too. If you talk calmly, with respect, they tend to give that same energy responding with respect. That’s the way I see things Thank you for reading till the end Have a lovely day #loveandlight

Certain things happen for certain reasons: do you believe? Just like every other day, I woke up with a lot of plans. I needed to pick a waybill from a park, do makeup for a transition video on TikTok I had prepared, as well as pack my loads for my travel to visit my family. I planned to visit my family before coming back to where I stay to continue my search for a good job.  The mistake I made was to put the waybill plan first which made me stay home the whole day doing nothing but waiting to be called by the driver for the waybill. Each time I wanted to proceed or carry on with other plans, I end up deciding not to, to avoid a situation whereby I’ll be on my makeup transition challenge and then I get his call. I couldn’t pack my bags yet because I needed to also take some makeup stuff with me and I couldn’t do that since I’ve not yet used the products I wanted to use for my TikTok video. And just like that, the whole day went without me doing anything. I became angry but I just had to endure at least I learned from my mistake.  Finally, I got a call from the driver and I quickly rushed to get my package. The road was so busy that night. There was a lot of traffic because everyone was just returning from work. The park I was going to was located after the main market and at that place, there was a lot of traffic. The driver didn’t even get to the destination he said he would get to because of the much traffic and he decided to turn back thereby discharging everybody. I quickly paid him and rushed out of his bus. It was getting late so I needed to walk fast to the park to pick my waybill.  The road was filled with traders and transporters. Some traders were already packing up while some were still doing business. Everybody was on their feet except for those in private vehicles. I kept my serious face as I walked past a lot of people who were walking as though the road belonged to them and they had nothing else to do rather than spend time on the road. As I walked past a girl who was standing by one side, she kept staring and our eyes met but I ignored her and kept my pace. The next minute, she called out my name. I stopped and walked slowly towards her while she came closer. She called my surname and yet I still couldn’t recognize who she was.  She had this excitement all over her as she began to explain herself. It turned out that we used to live in the same compound back then. We were neighbors and she was part of my childhood but funny how I couldn’t recognize her. I hugged her quickly as I remembered her family. We stood there talking for over 20 minutes. I remembered that her family left that compound before us and that was the last we heard of them. They left without notice. I just came back from school and then I heard they moved out. According to her, she had searched facebook looking for me but couldn’t find me. Maybe she spelled my surname wrongly. For her to recognize me means that she still had my face fresh on her memory.  Also according to her, she was standing on the other lane waiting for the bus and then decided to cross to the lane where we met. Now imagine if she didn’t cross over and imagine if I had gone to collect my waybill earlier than that, we wouldn’t have crossed paths neither would she have known that I’m in the same town with her. Truly there’s a reason why certain things happen the way they do. She has never crossed to this other lane to take a bus home from work. Today was her first time due to the traffic. I felt the excitement in her voice. It was like one of her dreams and wishes had just come true.  We exchanged contact. It’s a good thing I saw her. I’ve always thought of her most times. I’ve even thought about my childhood friends and I feel bad that I’m no longer in touch with any neither can I even remember them. So I’m happy to finally get in touch with one, the only problem is that she already planned to relocate to another town to get a better job and opportunity. We have a lot to catch up on.  I believe that certain things happen for certain reasons. Do you? I still achieved every plan I wanted to achieve even though I was done by midnight.    Thank you for reading  God bless you #loveandlight

Joba Good morning readers. This past week has been challenging, but thank God I was able to overcome it. A few days back, I went for a job interview for the first time. While I was preparing for that interview it became clearer how life has now become very serious😂. It's not easy once you're done with your service to your country. The next phase of life stares you in the face and sorry if you're not prepared nor ready for it.  The interview went well, at least I've had a first experience as to how interviews are done and what to expect. When I got to the reception, I got a stare from a girl with a funny facial expression. This made me feel my dressing was too corporate and official, unlike others who were just simply dressed in casual wear except that they wore shoes. I almost laughed at myself for being too serious cos it was a media firm I was applying for. But despite that, I didn't stop being comfortable and confident in what I wore.  After I was done with the interview, I got home. On my way home, I decided to buy some meat pie since I still had my bucket of ice cream in the fridge. I scooped some ice cream and enjoyed myself while watching movies on my system. I needed a break because I felt I've made the first move on this next phase of life and I know I still need to push on till I get what I'm looking for. But for now, let me enjoy and give myself some accolades. I can be very shy so going through that interview and coming out of that room with this satisfaction and happiness that I didn't let my fears overshadow me, made me happy. So I've done my part, the rest is now unto God.  So I watched a movie that day. This movie has been on my system and I had no idea. The title is **Joba.** It's a Christian movie and there's a lot to learn from this movie. The story centered on love, strength, faith and the omniscience nature of God. The faith of a couple is tried. The movie is about a couple living so happily in their first year of marriage. But slowly, that happiness began to fade away after they've had a series of miscarriages. They were strong Christians.  The husband was in charge of the children's section every Sunday. But they've not had any child yet. Medically, they were fine but yet no kids. The wife began to get bitter about the whole situation, crying and questioning God. She got so bitter with her husband that she began to kill the light of the marriage unknown to her. She kept asking her husband to give her children. The husband on the other hand was patient, understanding, and supportive. I mean he was always there for her, to console her and encourage her with God's words even though she keeps nagging him, it never mattered to him. He still loved her and stood by her. Now, I would say that's a blessing she forgot to count. In reality, some women suffer at the hands of their husbands because they've not bore any child. Some women are lucky and blessed enough to have a supportive husband who stands by them saying “we’re in this together”. Sometimes we forget to count our blessings when we're too focused on what we want from God.  The wife decided to the changing environment to go stay with her mum, seeing that she was becoming depressed with her situation. She attended a conference and learned a lot from that women's conference. She realized so many mistakes she had made. One of her mistakes was how she forgot to count her blessing that was right in front of her which is her husband. Another was how she began to kill the light of her marriage. She went back to her husband a changed woman.  They began to try again. He started having this repeated dreams. It was about him taking a child away from his wife while she kept on crying and asking for her baby. His wife also had the same dream and became scared of her husband. He became scared of himself as well because he clearly do not understand why he would take away a baby which they've always wanted. He prayed and fasted but it kept repeating. I kept wondering why this dream kept repeating itself and I thought to myself maybe they were not saying the right prayers, maybe her husband has a past so he should think deep if he has done anything to any child in the past. But as more scene unfolds I realized that it was because God was trying to warn them about something.  Most times we have dreams that are not so clear. God’s ways are not the ways of man. So It's good to pray for better understanding and clarification when our dreams are not clear. Back to the movie, let me tell you what God was warning them about. In the middle of the night, thieves broke into their house and his wife was raped by one of them, I began to think, could this be what that dream was about, could it be that she got pregnant this way, was this how God wants to answer their prayers😳🥺🤔. I decided to have more patience as the storyline unfolds. She refused to go to the hospital for a medical check up as he had suggested. She threatened her husband that if he tells anyone about what happened she will leave the marriage. She was bitter. Finally, she was taken to the hospital after she passed out one day. The doctor congratulated him because she was pregnant and he angrily went back home. He yelled at God, calling him to come and answer him, asking him if this was how he wanted to answer their prayers of childbirth for how many years. He had that same dream again but this time around, it became clearer. His wife wanted to kill a baby in that dream and he came and took the child away from her and a voice said “make a choice, what would it be”. That was him trying to save the baby all this while. The wife suggested aborting the baby but he refused. All her efforts to kill herself, was in vain because he came on time to save her.  Finally, she bore that child. The child showed some allergies which were in the lineage of the man, the child's genotype was the same as his. He began to wonder. His wife said maybe that was God's way of compensating them for what happened by making the child theirs because it was assumed it was the thieves who took turns in rapping her that got her pregnant.  He went for a DNA test, and that child was his. It turned out that she was already pregnant before the incident had happened. Now imagine she had killed that child. That was what that dream was about. God was indeed trying to warn them about something. Her husband saved that baby thinking it belonged to the criminals that raped her.  Patience and gratitude are important values one should have as a Christian. Having a close relationship with God is important because He will always be there to guide us in every step we take. Sometimes what we pass through could be God trying our faith therefore, we need to hold Him tight, hold unto His words. Things will definitely get better Hope you've learned one or two things. Thank you for reading God bless you and have a nice day.

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Do something Finally, it has ended. I’m talking about my service to my dear country ended on Thursday. So now we’re moving to the next stage of life: the labor (favor) market. “After service what next?” This is a common question asked by corp members to themselves. There are also lots of seminars and programs that go on once the end of one’s service is approaching.    During these seminars corp members are advised on learning skills, preparing their curriculum vitae, going on interviews as well as the dos and donts at interviews. I’ve prepared mine and I’m in search of something good that would as well give me chance to practice my skill and grow in it. “Work is no disgrace: it is idleness which is a disgrace.” - **Hesiod**  This has become one of my favorite quotes. I tell people to be proud of their hustle as long as it pays their bills and puts food on their table. Be proud of what you do so long as it doesn't dent your image as a person. Someone who is idle and has nothing to do commits vices and becomes the devil's workshop.   A few days back, there was an argument where I stay between a girl and a guy. During this argument, the lady insulted him and accused him of not having anything doing other than walking around and stealing. Another girl intervened and accused the guy of stealing her laptop. The laptop was stolen ending of last year and she posted a warning on the group chat for anyone who took it to return it. I had no idea that she was still on the laptop issue until two nights ago it came up as a topic for discussion during an impromptu meeting because of the case that took place earlier that day.    She was called that night to prove what she said earlier that day about him stealing her laptop of over 200k and hair of over 50k. She had no proof, all she said was that she went to ask all those spiritualists and they told her that he was the one. He was the same person who followed her to police stations and helped her move around for the missing laptop.   When she was asked to prove what she said and why she said it, she began to talk about how she sees him always galavanting around when everyone has left the compound or even at midnight and odd hours when people are sleeping. She said she has caught him pointing touch into her kitchen one time and when she came out he acted weird. The day her laptop got missing, she left her room open. She met him at the staircase and greeted him, but she complained his reply wasn't clear and he acted strangely. As she got to her room and wanted to use her system she couldn't find it and her mind went him immediately.   I have noticed this guy moving around most times but I haven't noticed any weird or suspicious moves from him. For me, the girl isn't wrong in suspecting him but where she did wrong was outrightly accusing him without any proof. Suspecting that someone did something is different from laying accusations on them. She wouldn't have suspected him if he wasn't seen at odd hours doing anything but moving around the house.    It's okay to move around in a place that you paid for. Probably you do that to have some fresh air or to look around. But the question is why would you leave your floor or space closer to your room to now move about to another floor at such an odd hour when others are sleeping. During the explanations she gave as to why she accused him, she said he pretends to be a banker but yet he goes out every day to bear parlor by 4 or 6 p.m and stays there till midnight 1 or 2 a.m.   I guess it's as a result of him being idle that's why he moves around. If he had something that keeps him busy, I don't think he would be a suspect in such a situation. In conclusion, even if you're not busy or have anything to do, make sure you limit your movement, do not allow anyone to begin to question your presence all the time, or begin to wonder whether you have a job or not. That way, people don't lose respect for you.  Thank you for reading God bless you and happy weekend   #loveandlight.

Who will be your first son: let's talk Good morning readers. Hope we all are doing fine. It's a beautiful Wednesday morning and today is sit at home for those of us in the east. I planned to do nothing other than being active here today and watching movies too.  I bought a bowl of ice cream last night and stored it in my fridge so today while I'm watching the movie I'll just scoop it little by little while enjoying my movie.  I'm not done with this new zombie movie called All of us are dead. This is because I've been so busy lately. Tomorrow is my Passing Out Parade (POP) from the NYSC and there's been a lot of activities going on for those who will be passing out soon. I’m excited about this. At least, I can move forward onto the next stage/phase of life.  So this morning I was going through some WhatsApp statuses and I saw this question and I decided to use it as my topic for today's article. In Nigeria, we all know how important and valuable firstborns are especially the male child. In the Igbo culture, one cannot deny the fact that first sons are usually the pride of the family.  I’ve heard stories about couples getting married and after years of marriage, no issue. This has caused issues between mothers-in-law and wives. If you’re lucky to get married into a family that understands that it is not in your hands to give yourself children, you’ll always enjoy a peaceful relationship with your mother-in-law.  Most times in Nollywood movies, there’s always a fight between wives and mother-in-law whenever there’s no childbirth yet after years of marriage. The wives receive insults upon insult from their mother-in-law, taking away peace and happiness from such a happy home. Most times in those movies, if the couple is not strong enough, the mother-in-law tends to break such a happy home therefore bringing chaos and making them lose hope and faith in their marriage.  Sometimes a man would be forced by his mum to take a second wife from the village or get someone pregnant. Such ideas can get into his head that he begins to think about it one day and finally act on it without his wife being aware. This does not only happen in Nollywood movies alone, it also happens in the real world. I have a friend who hasn’t had any child yet after being married but she’s among the lucky ones who got married into a good home. Her mother inlaw encourages her not to despair. She gives her advice and hopes that someday children will come and of course, they will.  I believe that while one is praying for children, couples should make sure that they do all the necessary checkups to be sure everything is ok and not only fighting the battle spiritually but also medical-wise. While hoping and praying and believing in God, just make sure you’re sound medical-wise.  I’ve also heard cases where couples agree to adopt a child and after they do, they begin to bear their children. It’s as if the adopted child opened the doors of blessing for them to have their kids. I’m not against adoption at all. Some might say they don’t like it because they want to carry their children in their womb and it’s not easy to take care of another man’s children. Me, I don’t see it that way, there’s nothing there about taking care of a child whether it’s yours or not. The question is, what if that's how God wants it for you. I mean, what if He wants you to adopt and take that child in so He could give you yours. Just what if? What if this is a solution to a childbearing issue and delaying this, delays that blessing of having children you've always wanted. What if?🤷‍♀️  To me, if I adopt a boy and later I bear my own son, that child I adopted is surely my first son. The moment I agreed and did the whole process, that child becomes my first even if I didn't carry him in my womb. I would even cherish him like my own child because I would see him as a blessing. After all, it was after I adopted him that I bore mine.  There would be no distinction at all, I would love them all equally. Sometimes, after couples have adopted and they now start bearing their kids, they begin to mistreat the adopted one which is not good. And such maltreatment comes from the wife most times. The hatred they feel for that child passes onto their children too. Their children begin to discriminate against the adopted child which is not good. That is why it is good to end up with a good woman.  To me, the children shouldn't even be aware if couples adopt. They should be told after they've all grown and gotten mature enough to understand certain things. By then they must have created a strong bond amongst themselves.  Thank you for reading till the end God bless you What is your answer to this? I would love to hear yours #loveandlight

My old tale Good day readers  How's valentines day going over there? I believe you're enjoying it. Today is a special day and to me, it's a day to show love to everyone. It's not just a day meant for couples only but it's a day to extend hands of friendship and love to everyone around us.  I remembered back then in school what valentine used to be like. Let me first talk about Valentine's day in secondary school. I first became aware of what Valentine is when I was in my senior secondary school. In my SS1 was when I had my first valentines gift from my boyfriend then.  Yes, I had a boyfriend. That relationship started since my JSS2😂 but I wasn't aware it was that serious until we got into the senior class. The relationship started as a result of a simple play. It was a case of him refusing to give me my bag so I could go home since they already rang the bell.  I begged him but he held onto it so I took his. While holding, his I still wasn't happy because I needed my bag so I could head for home. He only agreed to give me my bag if I wore him his own and if he wears me mine😂. We did the exchange and the whole class witnessed it and they turned it into a wedding.  They wrote our names on the board as the newly wedded couples, even on the timetable posted on the wall😂 And just like that, the relationship started. The class tagged us a couple and then it extended to the whole school. We were a couple of the school.  So my first valentine's gift came from him when we got into the senior class. I received a gift card, a tiny rose, and chocolate. He knows how much I love chocolates. I witnessed the exchange of gifts amongst my classmates back then. There was a certain valentines day when all gifts were seized. That should be in my SS2. Students were searched thoroughly and gifts found with them were seized. I wasn't having any gifts with me so I wasn't bothered at all.  My next valentine's gift was from my mum, she got me a beautiful dress and I loved it.  When I got into the University, Valentine's Day celebration was different from what I knew it to be.  I witnessed students go out or travel with their big boxes. They go to their friend's places to spend their valentines day. The lodge used to be so empty back then. Even the streets that used to be a little bit busy filled with people, the streets become so empty. For businesses especially those gift sellers, this is usually the time they make enough profits selling wines, gift cards, teddy bears, and other beautiful gifts even helping you wrap your gifts. For the bus drivers, they make money too because of those traveling to be with their loved ones. Today being another valentines day, I'm spending it at home watching movie Happy Valentine's Day to you all. Please don't forget to show love to anyone around you in the little way you can. I shared my breakfast with my neighbor this morning and that's my own little way of saying happy Val to her when she came over to greet me.😊 Thank you for reading #loveandlight

Law of favor Today has been a busy day. This week has been so tight that I managed so hard to write my articles Yesterday, I couldn't write because I was so stressed and needed to rest. Today I had to at least try so I don't miss again.   Although I'm really tired because I went to the market with my friend. We went to buy drinks and wine for our upcoming send-off and welcome party which is to hold on Tuesday. We will be hosting core members from the ICT CDS (Community Development Service) group who will be passing out on Thursday and welcoming in the new core members yet to serve their fathers land.   What we will be doing on Tuesday is just within but the main Passing Out Party (POP) will be on Thursday. This is when all core members from different local governments and different CDS will assemble at the local government secretariat and would be addressed by the state governor. I'm really happy and grateful to God that I'm among those passing out. Indeed God has been so faithful.    A friend of mine told me one certain time to listen to the preaching of one famous pastor named Apostles Joshua Selman. He's been ringing it in my ear and talking about the love he has for this particular pastor to the point that I had to download his preaching. I loved how he preaches and sings worship to God at some point in his preaching.    At first, I was reluctant and didn't want to download his tracks. This is because certain pastors preach certain things my spirit struggles to accept because they're not in line with the scriptures or because the scriptures have been twisted to arrive at some wrong conclusion. I remember one time I heard someone preach about how God’s grace covers us that even though we sin, Christ has already paid the price. This kind of preaching is commonly found in student churches, that is to say, churches that are located in a school environment.    Now I thought that I would never hear of such preaching again since I've graduated from high school until today I had a discussion with my friend concerning one boy we both know. I once initiated a game on my CDS group platform on WhatsApp and that game was a riddle but like a dirty riddle. The bad answers that come to your mind and you think are correct are not the answer to the riddle.    You just have to think and channel your thought rightly. I got a private message from this boy I'm talking about. The message read “ I bet you're a gem on the bed, your riddles are setting my genitals ablaze”. I replied with a funny sticker thinking it was just a statement until he took it further asking that we rub genitals together. I sent an emoji and never responded to his chat.    When he further wanted to ask that we become friends and take our friendship to the next level I immediately told him I had a boyfriend so there was no need for that. He kept persuading both online and when we see during our meetings. He decided to rest when he saw that I was showing no interest at all. Now he came up during a discussion I was having with my friend.    He used to preach during our CDS meeting. So I told her about my experience with him and she told me about how he brings different girls even from our meetings and they passed the night over. That was exactly what he wanted to happen between us but on seeing that I wasn't giving him the time and attention he just knew he met the wrong girl. My friend was able to witness his escapade with different women because they both stay in the same accommodation provided to them by their employers.    I was surprised because this was the same person who comes to stand in front of everyone to preach. He once preached about grace covering believers and about how Christ already paid the price. So what it means is that you could go ahead and sin now because Christ had paid the price. This type of preaching has led many souls to hell. I'm not judging, I'm just saying it's not right.    So back to the topic, my friend asked me to download this title by the same pastor, “law of favor”. He wanted me to listen to him carefully and apply it to my everyday life. I agree with what the pastor said. What he said can change one's life if you apply it to your everyday life. He talked about five keys to activating favor.    I remember he said through honor, by praying to God, by having a good relationship with people and, maintaining relationships with new people. Sometimes, people get favored not because they're the best at what they do, but because they made efforts either by prayer or by meeting their superiors and asking for help.    The part about the preaching that got me was where he talked about always keeping in communication with new people we meet especially when we need opportunities from them, sending them messages to keep up with them because one day, they will remember you to favor you. I'm moved by this part because my friend told me about how he applied this to his life and it's been working for him.    He told me about how he went on an excursion in school with his department and they visited a big company. Before he left, he took the secretary’s number asking that he gets updated when an opportunity comes. He was in his final year when this happened. He finished school and has served his nation and is now working but he kept communicating with her through WhatsApp, sending new months messages, some of which she ignored but he was persistent.    A few days back, he got a call from her, something that has never happened before. She told him about a job opening in her company and if he was interested. Of course, he was. He has done his interview and he’s awaiting feedback from that company. He’s ready to resign from the current company he’s working for because this new one’s price is double what he’s being paid. We’re just praying and believing in God now to make it happen.   I would like everyone to listen to this preaching because I may not summarize it properly so it’s better to hear from the horse's mouth. It’s on audio Mack. **Law of favor-keys to activate favor (great grace) by Apostle Joshua Selman.** This is my valentine's gift to you all that will download this and apply these keys he listed to your everyday life.   Thank you for reading God bless you   #loveandlight

All of us are dead So I’ve been seeing a lot of articles about this movie, “All of us are dead” so I’ve decided to as well talk about it. It’s an interesting movie. I’ve seen a lot of zombie movies but the zombies in this particular movie possessed some characteristics quite different from other zombies in other movies.  One of the characteristics was strength and aggression. They were so strong enough to defeat their prey. You can only defeat them if you’re strong enough to fight. At some point, those who were later affected by the virus showed no symptoms at all, unlike earlier ones who showed symptoms like bleeding through the nose and having low body temperature.  The newly infected were partly conscious of themselves but they were driven by the aggression they felt towards something or someone. They expressed little satisfaction whenever they don’t eat that particular victim they targeted already which makes them keep coming back even after being defeated.  Every time I watch a zombie movie I think of it happening in real life and when I do, I get scared and I pray it does not happen at all. The thought of losing your loved ones, watching them turn into zombies coming to attack you can be disturbing. Families always get divided in zombie movies and one thing I've noticed is the fact that you cannot survive alone.  One way or the other you'll have to find friends you'll put your head together with and try to survive. Most times in zombie movies someone who has been surviving before on his/her own might meet two or more persons that would want to join in his or her hideout, sometimes it doesn't end well. The person who has been surviving alone might end up getting a zombie bite.  I’m still watching more episodes of the movie but from the few episodes I’ve watched, I want to outline certain characters that are commonly found in zombie movies.  1. Those who are being paranoid; Are the ones who are scared to death. They’re even afraid of those around them. They feel threatened in every slightest situation.  2. The noisy and funny ones; are those ones that barely follow the rules of being quiet. They tend to say funny stuff out of fear. They can never be quiet. They are the comedians though. They always manage to survive longer than others and I don't know why😂 but with them around, you might just be killed by zombies sooner than them. 3. The heroes: these ones love to save others even though they may not make it in the end. They either die on the verge of saving others at the beginning of the movie or the end. One way or the other they must surely die😂 This is when I start using my paper towel to clean my tears 😩 because everything about their death can be very emotional.  4. The selfish ones; always tend to become the villain in every zombie movie. They are good at putting everybody's life at risk so they can save themselves. They sacrifice their friends just to stay alive. Even though you save them or help them from dying, they would still save themselves and give you up  5. The photographers and videographers; Even the journalists, the YouTubers fall in this category. They are seen at the beginning of the whole crisis, wanting to capture every moment of it instead of running for safety and saving their lives. Sometimes they end up dying sooner than later, sometimes they stay longer. The YouTuber from the movie, all of us are dead, who came to record the crisis when it started is still lucky to be alive. He's noisy and funny so let's see how long he'll stay. Who knows he might just end up being the hero who saves the day by getting the solution to stop the virus from the science lab in the school it broke out from.  6. The ones who are in love and then finally confess their love in case they die. This happened in the movie between two students and I would love to know it ends for the both of them and I hope it ends well.  7. The opportunist; these ones go about killing zombies and at the same time commit more crimes. They take hold of the present situation. Their main goal is not to kill the zombies but to steal food items, drugs, money, groceries, cars. They see that the city is in chaos so they grab that opportunity to do lots of crimes.  8. Lastly the survivors; sometimes it's funny how even those you thought would be the first to die, ends up surviving. The survivors manage to stay alive till the end and how it happened, you'll never know.  I think that's all I can point out for now. You can add and share yours too.  Thank you for reading till the end.  Have a lovely evening😘  #loveandlight

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Relax, Rethink & Re-strategize I had so much on my hands and head while I was looking for a document, I had to pay attention as well to what was on fire. I was trying to heat the food from last night and while I was so focused on locating this piece of paper that had important information my food began to burn. With anger and disappointment, I quickly rushed to turn it off. I had other things to heat up but I decided to keep searching. I turned my whole room upside down that day. Searched in my books yet couldn't find it, searched my bags still nothing was there. I heard a knock on the door and I hesitated in knowing who it was until I heard the third knock. I quickly pulled my curtain to look through my window. There he was standing, my neighbor who always love to come around and give me some gist. I wasn't just in the mood because what I was searching for was more important than any gist I could get, so I didn't open up then he left. I ran through the books again yet nothing. I was pressed and was supposed to ease myself but I preferred to continue the search until I find what I was looking for. A few minutes later, I got a call from an old friend and the conversation was short and straight to the point. We used to have longer conversations where most times we talk about past experiences, people we both know, how life has been treating us so far, what plans we've already started achieving, and many more. She asked me if I was ok because she could tell from my voice that I wasn't okay. I told her I was fine and that I was busy so I would call her back later so we could talk better. I was already on the verge of breaking down in tears. I prayed that the document just comes out from its hiding place so I can see it. That didn't solve the case either. My stomach began to rumble. I haven't eaten anything good since yesterday so at least today, this morning, I am meant to eat something especially because I'm going out today but I didn't care because I was too focused on finding the document. My room was already in a mess. This isn't just the first time. I've had cases where I search for something only for that thing to be staring me in the eyes. It's right in my face but I just didn't realize. Would only realize after I'm done turning the room upside down. Sometimes I could go back to those places I've searched before then I find it. I was wishing that this was one of the cases but it wasn't. This one was different and what made it different was the fact that I didn't give myself some time. Like, to stop looking, relax, take some break and then come back and look again. I was already running late to the meeting and I was going to submit that paper at the meeting so I just needed to find it. It started to become frustrating. I was already sweating from the whole stress. I had just 30 mins left to be done so I can start leaving for my meeting as I was almost ready. As I saw that time was no longer on my side, I decided to sit and think. What I should have done since, which would have given me enough time to eat. I began to ask myself where I last placed the document. I remembered placing it in my bag after it was stamped and signed on. But it was still not in my bag. I decided to rethink again. This time around, I tried to remember every event that occurred from the beginning of that day. I talked myself into calming down. I remembered going to get the document. I remembered submitting it during the meeting. I remembered my name being called after it was signed and stamped on. I placed it in my bag, which I remember vividly and after that, I went blank. I tried again and then I remembered that I escorted my friends to make a copy of theirs and I remembered giving my friend mine to help me photocopy alongside hers. But I don't remember taking that document including the photocopy. Boom!!!  That was it... I quickly called my friend and she confirmed she was with the original and photocopy and that I left before she was done helping me out with the photocopy. So I pleaded that she bring them along with her while coming for the meeting. I was too occupied that day I gave her my document to photocopy for me. I totally forgot that I didn't bring it home. I thought I brought it home like I do every other day when I collect the document.   *Sometimes nothing can be achieved in the heat of the moment. Sometimes what we need to do is take a chill pill, relax and calm our nerves. Do something else to distract you and then come back again to continue the search or you relax and have a rethink to know what exactly is missing. Sometimes if we keep getting the same result by doing the same thing, following the same method, we may not really get what we're looking for. All we have to do is restrategize. This is how life works.* Thank you for reading my post today. Have a wonderful day. You can share your thoughts in the comment section below   #loveandlight

Which of these can you relate to Good day readers. I believe we are doing fine today. It's a beautiful Tuesday and I'm excited today. So today on my way out, I boarded a bus to get to my destination. While enjoying the ride and the view, I observed how everyone was on the move for their normal day-to-day activities. Some were on public transport like me, some on a private while the rest were school children trekking to school.  I quickly remembered how I used to be on that uniform trekking to school every day. I remembered how we used to play so much after school while on our way home. This led me into remembering the funny things we (my siblings and I) did while growing up.  1. Played mummy and Dady along with our neighbor's children;  As we all know, this play is common amongst Nigerians. If you grew up without playing this, you missed childhood fun. The oldest among us used to be the mum and dad.  2. Fake cooking😂  This was another common game whereby we cooked with an empty tin of milk or empty tin tomatoes. We fill them with sand, add water, steal our mother's ingredients, pluck leaves, and cut them into our fake pots. We would even light matches and pretended there's imaginary firewood or stove, then place our tin of milk which serves as our pot😂  3. Hide and seek ; I was really bad at this particular game because I always get caught. I don't know how to hide and stay at a place😂 I could hide in the wardrobe this minute and the next minute I've changed position to hiding under the dining and then get caught by my brother 😩  4. War start;  I wasn't part of this game because it was mostly played by the guys in my compound. They would shoot at each other with their fake guns but the funniest thing was that nobody agreed to die. Sometimes arguments would arise from the game about who's supposed to die but that person keeps playing. That argument can sometimes be the end of the game or the start of the game canceling the previous one.  5. Rode the back of a chair;  I and my 2 siblings had plastic chairs. Each had different colors and they were all according to our favorite colors. My favorite color then was purple so I had the purple chair, my brother had the lemon chair, my sister had the orange chair because those were their favorite colors at that time. We used to drive our plastic chairs like they were our cars. We would turn the back of those chairs with the legs facing up and we would push them on the floor. We did this in the absence of our parents. We had no idea if the floor or the chair was been damaged or not, all we were after was the fun we were having while driving our benz😂  6. Worn a towel to church; This was a big mistake I made😂😁 You know how you try to dress up with a towel around your waist and then after dressing you pull off the towel but this time around I forgot to remove the towel. This was because I had no idea it was still on my waist. After all, my dress was the type that had layers. If you're a typical Nigerian you'll know the kind of dress I'm talking about it. It's those types we always get on Christmas period with matching handbags, glasses, watches, and bangles😂 so wearing such type of flare gown with about three or four layers/linen, you'll never feel it. I was meant to feel the cold from the towel at least but I just can't tell how I wasn't able to feel it, maybe because my body was already comfortable with it that I could hardly remember that it was on my waist. I went to church and was dancing during praise in the children's section and I felt something gradually pulling out of my waist, only for me to look down, behold my towel trying to show its face. At that moment I remembered I forgot to pull it out after dressing. I excused myself and took it out. Everyone around me kept staring at me😂 indeed it was embarrassing.😂  8. Ran inside the house and pretended we'd been reading or sleeping when we hear our parent's voice from the gate;😂  I and my siblings were experts in pretending. Our parents had rules and each rule was meant to be followed. One of the rules was to stay indoors and read once they go out but most times we broke these rules. We would be reading when they're still at home with us and then we would go out to play one's they leave😂  9. Pretended to take a nap; I was the chairlady of this table. Growing up as a child, I hardly slept in the afternoon. Once my aunty sends everyone to go and sleep, I would be the only one still shining her eyes laying on the bed while others are already in dreamland. And when they all start waking up, I'll act like I've been sleeping since😂. Which of these can you relate to while growing up, you can share yours in the comment section below  Thank you for reading till then end  Have a wonderful day. #loveandlight

Football Good morning dear readers. It's a beautiful Monday morning. For us in the east, it's a no movement day so we have the whole day to rest and relax. The only plan I have is to do makeup for a TikTok challenge I want to hop on. The rest of the day can be spent on my online activities and movies. The weekend was short and I didn't enjoy it because I was so busy. Yesterday I got a call from my friend who wanted to visit. His call woke me up from sleep that evening. When he came around, we talked and laughed about so many things. I had so many cravings that evening. I craved ice cream, milkshake, meat pie, shawarma, and suya. But as we all know, na only person wey get money dey get cravings😂. The only thing that my money could buy to satisfy my craving was shawarma😁 so I decided to escort him while I make a stop at a shawarma spot to buy my special beef shawarma and satisfy one of my cravings. It's been a long time since I tasted a good one so I couldn't get over the nice taste from last night. Okay, enough of the shawarma talk already. Today I'm talking about football. Not in the way you think oo because I know little or nothing about football. I'm just here to write about how it's been able to aid socialization, especially amongst men. You go to a ball or game center, it's always made up of different people from different places, supporting different teams. Everyone has a common interest which is to enjoy the game. Sometimes there could be some form of arguments or disagreement which would only last for a few minutes and then it ends there. Tomorrow again, they all come together to watch and have fun and just like that, the familiarity begins. They see themselves on the streets and they shake hands even though they've met only once at a football center or twice. I have a friend who loves to watch football. One time I walking with him, we both stopped to greet someone he knew. Surprisingly, this person was my course mate but he related more with him than I did. This was made possible because of football. When I asked him how he knew the guy, he said he met him at a gaming center and that he was a funny guy. I guess he must have made a funny statement or cracked some jokes, and my friend must have also engaged him in a few discussions about football during the match they once watched together. So every time they see themselves, they must always exchange pleasantries. I can imagine how many men must have made new friends, business partners, e.t.c from football viewing centers. There is a football viewing center opposite my house. These past few months that AFCON (Africa Cup of Nations) started, there's been a series of screaming and chanting by the supporters of various African countries. I hear shouts like “goal” and one can know the scores without watching, the only thing required is to now know which team is winning and which is losing. Sometimes from their shout, I can be able to detect if the ball entered the net or if there was a case of the ball almost entering the net. Sometimes I wonder what a man's life would be like without football. Imagine football never existed, I wonder what some men would do. I have a friend who loves to watch football. He doesn't watch movies at all. If you ask him about any current movie even movies that are trending on social media, he doesn't show interest at all. All he does is watch football. He is always excited whenever the time to watch a match is approaching. He would always go on time to get a better position. He too has made new friends from such gatherings. My dad loves to watch matches but he doesn't go out, all he does is sit at home on weekends and puts his favorite football channel. My brother would join him sometimes whenever he was at home. During this moment, nobody disturbs them. At this point, I and my siblings will quickly go to our rooms to either sleep or use our phones to watch movies😁. I've once lived in a lodge where the boys made arrangements to stream the champions league in the compound since there was a power outage that period. They set up a small tv, generator and did the whole connection which I don't know how but they were able to watch the match. We had other people from neighboring compounds join us. We all came out with our chairs to sit and watch from the tv that was provided. Of course, I joined them, it was fun.😌😁 Football has indeed aided socialization amongst men and will continue to do so. Thank you for reading till the end Please subscribe Have a lovely day #loveandlight

I did not run away The past few days have been hectic and stressful. Been working on a few things regarding my business. I’m a makeup artist still trying to gain a strong balance in this new environment. Hopefully, I pray it all turns out well. I'm positive it will. Before I begin to give a rundown of my activities from Thursday been the first day I became inactive here till Saturday, Let me wish you all a Happy and fun-filled Sunday.   Starting a business is not easy especially when you’re doing it on your own and when you’re in a new location. The beginning can be a little bit rough and challenging. The strive to get to the top requires so much effort especially in my field or line of business. I’m a makeup artist. Being a makeup artist in a new location requires constant advertising to put one’s self out there and be known by lots of people. It also requires a team because most times you can’t do everything on your own. One thing I’m forever grateful to God for is giving me a supportive and financially stable father who shows his love and support by giving the finance I’ve been able to use to push my business to this level. Looking back at how I started, I can say there’s been a huge change. I’ve invested a lot yeah, that’s the only thing that bothers me because I haven’t gotten back what I’ve spent in both learning and buying products and I still keep buying. But that’s not too much of a  problem because I’ve been aiming at getting better, having a professional look and that requires investing on good products and now unlike before, with the way my work comes out, I can say that I’m proud of myself for getting this good.   I have a few products I’ve gotten but haven’t touched them yet. The reason I keep getting products is that most times, you may not know when you’ll meet that client that would be suitable to use that product on. So it’s always good to be ready and prepared. One good thing for sure is that sometimes some products could last for a long time, so it’s never a bad idea to keep investing in products. Once one becomes popular in this field and gets clients regularly, one will surely gain back all the money invested and that’s what I’m praying for to happen real soon.   I made a plan to do a shoot every month and post on my Instagram handle to reach my target audience. So far, the plan has been going well. Thursday was the day I decided to do a shoot for February. It was an Edo bridal shoot. I have no team yet but at least, the hairstylist that styles my model's hair works with my boss so he does the hair free for me. But he decided to film the process and that took a long time because I had to wait for him to be done with the hair before I could start the makeup.   Firstly, on Thursday morning, I and my model went to get the outfit for the bridal shoot. This took a long time too because they had to fit the dress to her perfect size. After that, we proceeded for the saloon. After he was done dressing the hair, I started my job on my model. I rented the dress which was a red gown , I also paid to use the model’s face for my work. I rented the beads as well.   When I was done with the makeup, the hairstylist finished up by placing the beads still filming the process. Edo brides signify royalty brides. The beads are made up of 10 layers of coral, 4 layers of short coral which are worn on the neck. 10 bangles which are worn on the left and right-hand sides, 5 each. It also consists of a pair of earrings, a ring, one arm bangle which is worn at the upper arm but she didn’t wear it because the hand of the cloth would have made it invisible. It’s also made of 2 wrapping beads which are wrapped around her styled hair, a black okuku which is the one that’s fixed at the center of her head, 4 golden chips which are fixed on her head as well, 6 iron which is fixed on her head. Finally, a black nza or a white handkerchief makes it complete. I used a black nza for mine though. One thing I’ve noticed about Edo's bridal look is that they always use either a red or white outfit for their brides. Maybe any other color doesn’t represent their culture. (I’m guessing, I don’t know if I’m right). We headed to the photo studio which wasn’t far from the saloon. Took a few good pictures and came back to the saloon to remove the beads, change outfits and loosen the hair. Those beads were really heavy. Carrying them from the market the day I went to rent them, I almost fell😂. It was a wonderful day because I got good comments concerning the makeup and outfit. Meanwhile, I was scheduled to go for my NYSC monthly clearance on that Thursday but I skipped it because I already made plans for this shoot before the clearance date was released. So I went for my clearance the following day been Friday. After the clearance, I decided to go to the market which was close by to get a few things to prepare a delicious curry stew. I came home afterward but was too tired to cook immediately so I took snacks that I got on my way back from the market. I took a nap after that, then I woke up in the evening to make my delicious curry stew. On Saturday I went to a bridal job. My boss wanted me to join her to assist her with the chief bridesmaid’s makeup. While she was doing the bride’s makeup, I did the chief bridesmaid’s makeup. They were also having their traditional wedding on the same day so I followed the bride to her village to represent my boss who was going for another job, to do some touches and changes to her work for a traditional look. I stayed till the end of the whole event because I couldn’t find a ride home since it was far from where I lived. I got home late, had my bath, and decided to shower after which I had dinner. In all these, I had no time for social media because all I could think of was spreading myself on my bed and sleeping till daybreak. I believe one day all this stress and hard work will pay off someday and I pray to find my team to lessen the stress of planning a shoot on my own.   Thank you for reading till the end I hope you have a beautiful day today   #loveandlight

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My dog has a girlfriend😂 It's a beautiful Wednesday morning and I'm up early today. That's unusual but I have no other choice because I decided to take my life seriously this year. I had to wake up early to write this article because today is going to be a busy day so I need to start my day on time so I can achieve all I’ve set out to achieve. Another reason I woke up early is that I need to write my response letter to the query letter I was issued last week by my CDS (Community Development Service) coordinator. The good thing is that I wasn’t the only one who got this letter but everyone did because we came late to the meeting which was scheduled to start at 9. a.m. Formally the time has always been by 10. a.m but the time was recently changed to 9. a.m but every one of us ignored this time change and continued with the usual time. This made our coordinator and his assistant angry so they decided to issue us a query. Being issued a query is not a good thing because it could elongate one’s service year if you’ve been issued up to three times. This is a bye-law in the National Youth Service Corps scheme (NYSC). This month is special to me. Do you know why? Not only is it a month of love but it’s also a month when I’ll be done with my service to my dear country. It’s been a wonderful experience so far. So about the title of this article, I have always wondered if animals can speak or hear themselves the way we humans do. Take for instance a dog. Have you ever wondered if those barks and noises they make are words they say that only their fellow dogs can hear and understand? I have 3 dogs at home, Terror, Pat, and Ruby. Terror and Pat are male while Ruby is female. Terror is an active dog, that can be aggressive most times to strangers. Pat on the other hand is a lazy dog. He is big and ugly and I guess that's the only thing about him that scares people. He is always calm and quiet, loves to sleep around, and eats too much. Every time Terror loves to bully Pat. He makes this disturbing noise around Pat which makes Pat become calm or goes off to sit somewhere. Each time I serve them their meal for the day, Terror barks at Pat whenever I try to make Pat go into his cage to eat. They both share the same cage but it's demarcated but that doesn't stop them from barking at each other. Going back home after a long time made me notice this. This was new to me and I couldn't get used to it because each time they start their aggressive barking I tend to run off with fear😂. They've fought one time and I wasn't able to do anything. It was my younger sister who was already used to them that came out to separate them pretending to use her slippers on them and they ran off. My dad said they were always fighting because of Ruby. Ruby is just a little dog. Always runs off whenever we try to touch, pet, or carry her. It's always funny whenever we plan to bathe her. She would make everyone chase her around the compound so she could have her bath. It's always like we're trying to catch a thief😂 which is very funny. She's not up to a year yet. But I've noticed how Terror follows her around. I would lock Ruby sometimes in her cage so she doesn't get disturbed by him and he would be making a disturbing noise like he's crying while constantly roaming around her cage. If I finally release her from her cage, he would be the first to jump on her and then they both play around. One certain time, I locked Terror in his cage, while Pat and Ruby were not locked. When Terror was finally released that day, he went in search of his love Ruby😂. One time Ruby walked with Pat to the back of our building and he quickly rushed to separate them. He kept barking at Pat. Most times when I notice this I would call his name so he would stop immediately. Many times when everyone else has left the house except me, these two dogs will begin to bark at each other not knowing them I'm around. I wonder most time why they dislike each other. If truly it's because of Ruby then it's more serious than we think. I've watched both Terror and Ruby closely, they're both fonds of each other and they both love to play. I guess she likes Terror more than Pat because he acts stronger and at least can protect her😂 Most times ruby would even initiate the play. She's fond of licking Terror’s faces anytime they are released from her cage. One thing she doesn't allow him to do is to mate with her and I'm happy about that because she has not fully grown for that so most of the time she's always sitting down after she has had enough play with Terror. Terror would most times want to climb her but she would always run off and sit somewhere. Sometimes she could sit at a place for a very long time. At night, we normally send her into her cage while Terror and Pat will be out safeguarding the compound. We do this so that Terror wouldn't disturb her at night. I wonder if Pat and Terror would eventually get along and I hope they do. I have to go now before I'll be late again today and receive another query which won't look good. Thank you for reading Have a lovely day

If you could change back the hands of time what would you do differently? Good morning my dear readers, hope we all slept well. A happy new month to you all and may this new month bring good things to us. So let's get down to the title of the day. The above question was asked to an old lady on a video I watched yesterday on my sister's Facebook story. Guess what she said. She said she would have spent more time with her kids. Now they're grown and have their kids which she's currently spending more time with, she wished she had done that with her kids. I guess she just realized how much she had missed not spending enough time with her children, not like she never did. She was never aware of her absence in the life of her children. Not like she was totally absent though but in my own opinion, spending more time with her grandkids made her realize she didn't spend as much as that with her kids and that was why she wished she could turn back the hands of time to do it better. Many times we get busy and distracted dealing with life that we forget what's important which is spending time with our family and friends. About the old lady, I guess as a mom she worked too hard, trying to provide for the kids, give them shelter, food and attend to their basic needs. Most times we forget that all those things are not all that matters. Sometimes children could need your attention, words of advice, and not just money or other materialistic things you provide them with. Most times they want to feel close to you, they want to talk so you could listen, they want to play with you, have a heart-to-heart discussion with you and that would happen if only as a parent you make yourself available.    I remembered last year during the pandemic how everything was on halt. I felt my life was stagnant, nothing was moving. Business, school, money, everything just wasn’t going as planned. I became more sensitive and emotional. I flared up at every little thing. I wanted so much attention and encouragement from my parents because I was almost losing my mind. I wanted to feel closer to them enough to open up and tell them what I was passing through at that moment. I was really glad that they gave me what I wanted and everything became normal again. If I was asked about what I would love to do differently if the hands of time were changed, firstly; that would be to spend more time with my grandfather. He was a strong man. He was once a commissioner of police. He traveled a lot. When I became very much aware of my grandfather from my paternal side was when I was in secondary school. The few moments we shared when my family traveled to the village one certain Christmas before he passed away were the best moment of my life. Though it was short, I enjoyed the little attention he gave to me and my siblings. He was very old and his sight wasn’t good enough. We played a game he hosted among his grandkids and the other children in the compound. He wanted us to run and the winner will be rewarded with money to buy some biscuits. After the game, I began to gist him about my new school. I had just finished my primary education and was admitted into secondary school newly. So the whole secondary school was new to me. There was a lot to talk about ranging from how some stubborn female students dressed to school, which was against the school rules and regulations, how some students get their bushy hair cut with scissors as a form of punishment for not visiting the barbing saloon during the weekend for a nice hair cut, how some seniors were wicked to some students, how the senior secondary classes were filled with big men and women and so much more. It's so sad that this was the only memory of him I have and he wasn't much around for us to continue getting along.   I once had a friend to who I was close. I call him my friend because he is a good person and has helped me in different ways. I lost him some time ago to a ghastly motor accident during one of the Christmas seasons. I wish I knew what was going to happen, I should have made that call. It was just a phone call I wanted to place across to know how he was faring and celebrating his Christmas season but I got so busy that period that I forgot. Several times he came to my city to see his sister, he always place a call across inviting me to the mall or cinema to watch movies but I always didn't get the chance to hang out with him. Sometimes it was because of laziness or me being too busy at home. Now each time I return home and I'm bored I begin to wish I could get that call from him inviting me for a hangout. Indeed life is short and no one knows what's going to happen next. So if I had the power to change anything, that would be to bring back those moments, accept those invites, made out time to make a call. Too sad I never saw it coming. Another thing I would love to go back in time to change is to do things differently to sustain my friendship. I’ve had friendships and bonds that have broken because of how I addressed certain issues. If I had just paused and thought for a second about the implications of what I could say or how I could say it would affect the friendship I could have done it differently. Just maybe, by that way, the friendship would still be on. Sometimes I wish I had just peacefully handled certain things that came up between a few of my friends. Although even when you peacefully handle your issues with your friends, there is still a tendency that that friendship would still be over. So sometimes it doesn’t matter if you addressed your issues peacefully or not, if a friendship is meant to end it would end, if it’s meant to last, it would last, despite the arguments or fights that may come up at any given time. That's one thing I believe.   What would you change or do differently if you can go back in time? I would love to hear yours.   Thank you for reading till the end I appreciate    #loveandlight

Crazy things are happening Just last year, everyone was posting stuff online about doing rituals to make money in 2022. We all were cruising with such posts in one way or the other.🤣 I thought it was all fun and games until now. Not even half of the year already, and things have started happening. According to a beautiful musician and songwriter who once sang a song, one of the lines goes like this “crazy things are happening”. Indeed crazy things are happening. These days, whenever I open most of my social media accounts, I see overwhelming stories. The extent to which these young boys go in other to make money and achieve what their fathers achieved at age 30 and above is surprising. We've lost our value and conscience as a society. They've shown a lack of patience and desperation forgetting that life is in stages and of course, our time will come so long as we keep working and praying. Funny enough, it's the female gender that's always the victim in such ugly situations. A few days ago, it was on the news that a young boy invited his mum to come around with foodstuff. On getting there, the boy stabbed his mum. Thankfully, she escaped and survived. But I'm sure she would be traumatized about the whole incidence. I guess it came as a shock to her. Who would imagine, that a child she carried for 9 months would pick up a knife to stab her? Rumour has it that he wanted to use her for rituals. And as I hear, the boy is in police custody. There are so many cases today and it's all over the internet. Now the big question is, ***what can be done to correct this?*** Remember back then in secondary school, we were thought that the family, the school, peer groups, the society, and church are agents to socialization. Each has a role to play in the development of a child, teaching them the beliefs, values, and norms in other to build a good society. The family is the first agent of socialization. They teach us and train us properly so we can stand out and be good citizens of our society. Today's parents find it hard to make out time for their children. They are more focused on making money and providing for the needs of their children. They don't try to know the kind of friends their children keep, who they hang out with. Most times when these kids grow and begin to acquire things they can't afford or weren't bought by their parents, they're never noticed, or even when noticed, they're never asked any question about it. I once lived with my uncle, my dad’s stepbrother. He stays in Delta state. They have a daughter, who I'm 5 years older than but she looks bigger than me. She's an open book. Her parents aren't rich but at least they're comfortable but not so comfortable enough to get her an iPhone, the latest one at that. She has been using it and yet none of her parents asked her how she was able to afford it. Her first phone was given to her by her first boyfriend when she just turned 18 and was in the University. Did her parent ask her how she was able to afford it? no, they didn't. That's one mistake parents do make. That's the reason why when young boys do what they do and can afford a car, any form of luxury at an early age, all the parents do is congratulate their children without asking or finding out the real source of their wealth at such young age. It's very important to ask because we all know how hard it is now to make money here as a private or government worker. Gone are the days when we get something new for ourselves, we take them to our parents telling them that this is what we were able to buy with the money you gave us last week or with the money uncle A or B gave us. The peer group is the next agent of socialization. This is the most important which every parent should look deeply into. The kind of friends we keep goes a long way in influencing our lives. If we keep bad friends, they would influence us negatively and if we keep good peers, our lives will be influenced positively. This is where most parents have failed woefully. They don't care to know who their children visit when they say they're going to see a friend. They permit their kids to go without proper screening to know if those friends are good or bad influences. The next agent of socialization is the school where we’re being thought morals and other good behaviors to be presentable before society. This is where children get to meet peer groups and interact with their age-grade daily. And whoever they interact with goes a long way in determining things they get to learn. The church also has a strong role to play. The church is expected to teach good morals. There’s a saying that goes “catch them young for Christ”. It is what we teach these children at an early age that they tend to grow up with. But with the increase in churches today, youths still end up making bad choices. That's because most churches have left what's important. They've now focused more on preaching and prophesying prosperity or telling you about who and who is after your life. Society as the last agent has a role to play in the development of a child. A child does not only belong to one rather belongs to all. It’s expected of society to instill good morals. Correct a child if that child isn’t doing the right thing, even though that child is not yours. The problem we're facing today is because these agents of socialization have lost focus. The family, the school, the church, and society have become so silent with the recent happenings that these kids have become so powerful and have lost their conscience, values, and morals. The way this should be corrected is for this generation soon to become parents, at least some of us that still have our heads right, having been aware of this problem, should ensure we all do the right thing, raising our kids in the right way. Of course, that would be so difficult because this has eaten deep into society. But as they say, charity begins at home. The family is the first and most important agent of socialization should put much effort into raising their children right. If I raise my kids right, and the next family does the same and it goes on and on, we'll be able to produce a society where norms, values, and good morals will be restored. Thank you for your time and reading till the end. Feel free to share your opinion, I would love to hear. #loveandlight

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ZigZag Have you ever made a plan and imagined what it would look like when you start executing that plan? It goes so well in your imagination that you become so proud and happy, thinking you are so wise until life happens and proves you wrong 😂  At some point in one's life, there comes this moment where we think we got it all figured out until life comes crumbling and crashing the big plan. We make a plan and in our imagination, it's simple and clear only for things to go zigzag when we start to execute those plans. I remembered back then in secondary school, my friends, a group of 5, we all wanted the same thing. We wanted to go to the same university together, get accommodation together, live together. We just wanted to live the big girl/baby girl lifestyle while on campus as we see in the movies (Nigerian movies). But guess what? Lol. We didn't even pass our first JAMB (Joint Admission Matriculation Board) which was even the most important thing, the first thing we should have focused most of our energy on to achieve the plans we've made with our mouth😂. Hold on let me drink water before I choke with laughter. So as I was saying, life happened to us. We all got admitted into different universities in different states, made new friends, lived with different people but that didn't stop us from being friends. Throughout our university days, we were still in touch.  I remember telling my friends in secondary school that I was going to be married at age 18, right after secondary school😂 I was 16 years and in ss2 at the time I told them about this and they all tease me today because I'm past 18 years and I'm still living the baby girl lifestyle rather than being in my husband's house with 5 children already 😂. Well, that's the only plan I'm happy never worked. I mean what would I be doing in marriage at that early age. What do I know at that age? I was not even sure I could even handle whatever challenges I might face at the early stage of marriage. As I grew and maturity began to step in, I realized what was more important was securing a good future.  During my 3rd year in my university, I had a plan. I had just learned a new skill which was makeup skill. The plan was to advertise me to the first-year students so they could patronize me during events such as matriculation, dinner parties, welcome parties, and more events being hosted for first-year students. I imagined making so much money from my newly learned skill if I go with the way I had just planned it. Did the plan work? Yes, but only in my head.😂 I was able to do the advert. Some took my number, but I never got a call😒. The disappointment I felt that period was baffling. **Life!!!** I thought I had it all figured out. Again, before I left home to serve my dear country, I had just made a plan. It was so perfect in my head that I never thought of what would happen in the long run. This plan was to serve in a different location, not far from home, get a good PPA (Place of Primary Assignment) that would not stress me and would give me all the time I want, go for an upgrade class in my makeup skill, work under my tutor, save up my salary from the government so that at the end I can become my boss. That plan was going smoothly not just in my head, but for real. The stress-free PPA I wanted including the free time, I got it. I had the whole time in the world, did my upgrade, worked for a little while with my tutor and now this year, it looks like everything was put on a pause mode. (sobs)  I once discussed this with my friend a few days ago. We stay in the same lodge. He works in a tech company so he's sure of receiving his salary every end of the month. He was telling me about his plans to sell his gas, all his kitchen utensils because he was tired of cooking. He had already planned how he was going to be spending his money on food every day. In that plan, he decided he was going to be buying food only at night when he gets back from work. He would take either noodles or coffee and bread at the office since they provided staff with breakfast. It wasn't even up to 1 week after he told me about this plan of his, I discovered he was back into the kitchen making his meal. When I reminded him of his plans to sell his kitchen utensils we both began to laugh In his own words, he said “omo owu na sa m (which means I’m broke) so I gat to enter the kitchen to cook food make I chop”  That was a funny moment because I couldn’t control my laughter. Just a few days ago he had money which made him decide to be buying food rather than cook and today, the money is no more. According to him, he said he used his money to attend to some important needs and he’s awaiting his next salary. Till today, this my friend has been cooking none stop.  why am I sharing this?  I believe we’ve all experienced life in several ways and are still experiencing life. Just as Soren Kierkegaard said, “Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.”  One important lesson I’ve learned from my experiences so far is to always to take things slow. One thing we forget is that life is in stages and everything we’ve always wanted would eventually come to us so long as we keep working hard and doing our part. Everything would fall into place with time.  I believe you’ve had your share of how life has happened to you. Please share because I would love to hear about your experience.  Thank you for reading  #loveandlight.

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Little Push Although we were all created differently, I still find it amazing how we all shared this common thing, which is the ability to survive. The fight for survival goes beyond we humans. Animals as well, fight and struggle to stay alive in their various territories. Only the strongest can conquer their predators and overcome any other factor that may stand in their way of surviving be it climate change or food scarcity. For humans, the struggle for survival is different. We engage in various activities that would fetch us income which we would use to survive and overcome our challenges. Sometimes we could do three to four jobs to have multiple streams of income daily. Where I come from, this has become a norm.  However, for one to take upon a job to generate an income no matter how little, he or she must have thought through it, then taking it up shows us that they decided to go ahead with it. We all have our different hustles, some we may be proud of, others, we may not but I believe no one should ever talk down or look down on someone else’s hustle.  A little conversation I heard between my neighbor and a certain boy named Felix who sells water in gallons since the well in our flat was still dried up, made me realize how some people can be inhuman. Earlier on, while I was talking to him to get water for me, she came out from her room and said “hey you boy, can you fetch water for me?” The boy looked at her for some seconds without saying anything and looked away. Who would want to say anything after being addressed that way? I could tell from his expression how sad and embarrassed he felt but I had to pretend just like he did like it never happened. After I was done talking to him and paying him for his services, he left and didn’t bother checking on my neighbor who just talked to him in that manner to confirm how many gallons of water she might be needing. A few moments later, I wanted to get pepper for this delicious rice I was cooking for dinner. I’m a fan of a peppery meal, I don’t usually like food without pepper. Food without pepper tastes like nothing to me🤮.  As I walked past her door, she was outside with the guy again scolding him. In her words, “if you know you want to be doing big boy then stop fetching water and selling. I don't like vexing oo, don't make me angry” while she was saying that, she was taking the water which he just turned into her bucket from his gallon into the room. I crossed him and looked at his face to know his reaction, he only nodded his head and didn't utter a word. I felt so bitter. I mean why should he be talked to in that manner. I wanted to get myself involved and speak for him but I just had to mind my business because I've had my share of her bad level of communication. Looking at Felix, I can tell he is no longer a kid. He must have finished school, both secondary and college, or maybe never had the finance to finish his education. He had other choices or means of making ends meet but he choose to go on this path. Of course, he could have other things he does to fetch him some cash that could take care of his needs.   Where I come from, young boys do a lot of crazy and illegal things just to make money. No one can ever tell if Felix must have thought of these as options just waiting to make up his mind with that little push. How she talked to him is enough to make him go into his secret place and think of his life asking God too many questions which might push him to carry out those wrong intentions he must have had in his mind for a long time. We all don't know what we all pass through daily, differently, even though we come out with our best dresses with a smile on our faces, no one has an idea of what we feel inside.  Most of the young men carrying guns on the street, making money illegally must have had just a little push. I once had a friend in my first year in university days. We lived in the same student lodge but he wasn't a student at that point. We used to discuss a lot of things. He always talked about joining a secret cult and I thought he was just ranting.  The way he talked and the things he says, it showed that he was tired of the fact that he was always been intimidated. Yes, he had a small stature as you know what happens to us with small stature. I said us because I also do have a small stature and the level of intimidation we get is something else. Sometimes people don't rate us at all😂  Time went on, he finally got admission but in a different school not so far from mine, so he moved to a new lodge. After his first year, he came around to see his cousin who was still in the same lodge as me, he looked different and acted differently. Finally, he revealed to me that he joined a secret cult on his campus. Immediately, I knew what gave him that push because, from our previous discussion, he was already considering it. Before he left for his school, he had gotten into an argument with some group of friends over money on a business deal which ended up crashing. I was there, I saw how he struggled to get his money back but he wasn't able to win his money back. I saw the disappointment written all over him as he stood separately from the rest of them, glancing at every one of them. I guess that was the moment he couldn't take it anymore. Because of this incident, he must have had that little push and made up his mind. Of course, this may not be the only incident, more must have happened.  Sometimes it's how we treat people or how we talk to them that leaves them no choice but to carry on with that bad choice or decisions they harbored in their hearts. I'm not saying they're right in acting on those decisions rather I'm encouraging that we all learn to talk to people irrespective of their hustle, size, origin, religion, tribe, etc so we don't force them into doing the wrong things because there's a thin line between right and wrong and once anyone crosses it, it may be difficult to return.  Have a lovely weekend  #loveandlight.

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How a favor I did gave me a business idea So I was called by my friend one certain time during the Christmas holiday for a little favor (according to her) but it was nothing because it's something I loved doing. Of course, I couldn't say no because this friend is special. We've been friends since secondary school and we were 5 and we're still in touch with one another. We did everything together, broke the school rules together, got punished together😂. There was this thing we do while on our way back from school which turned into a tradition. We would always stop by a suya stand and ask the meat seller to give us some meat to test before we'll decide to buy from him and if he refuses we leave. Sometimes if he agrees one of us will end up buying just a little and we'll share among ourselves while walking home and laughing at anything or anyone that looks funny.  So about the favor, my dear friend called me saying she was out of town and she had just gone back to her place of work in another state. She forgot to make soup for her parents and store it in the refrigerator. Her parents weren't in town before she left home and surprisingly her dad came back unexpectedly. There was no food for him at all and she needed me to help her make a soup so he could store it in his fridge. We made the arrangements, she called her dad and asked him what soup he would want and he made his choice. She sent little money, I went to the market and I prepared this delicious soup which is one of my favorite soups, with what she sent to me and I took my time to make this at my place. I packaged it as seen on the picture uploaded below and left it to cool a little bit. In a short time, I got a call from my friend saying her dad was back from work so I can deliver the meal if I was done. I made use of cow meat, some smoked fish, and some cow skin (kpomo) which I chopped into pieces. I got to her house, greeted her dad who I met downstairs at his shop as I proceeded to the sitting room, kept the plates of soup in the dining and took my leave. The motorcycle rider who brought me was waiting for me so I rushed out immediately so he doesn't increase my transport fare😂  A few days later I got a phone call from my friend with positive feedback about the meal I prepared. Her dad complimented my meal and he was grateful …I was so happy and then at that point the idea came to me  I said to myself, what if I start up this as a business, you call me to order for your soup, any kind at all and I get it done after you’ve sent money which I would use to go to the market as well as my payment for my services. So far so good, it’s been going well and I hope to expand on it more and get more orders 😌  Have a lovely day  #loveandlight

My newly found love (Introduction) Knock knock here… How’s everyone doing? Am I the only one who this year has taught a lot even though we just started it🤣. Anyway, that’s a gist for another day... Have I introduced myself yet? Oops!!! Forgive my manners. I am Shine, a true Nigerian, from Anambra state, residing in Enugu state.  My hobbies include cooking, so be prepared to receive some recipes and tutorials on how I make my delicious meal🤣, meeting new people, hanging out with friends, and dancing. I would have added writing to the hobbies but I’m not quite sure. I only used to write when I’m angry and I am trying to express that pain or when I am crying about something and of course I write on my diaries which I believe we all have and we’ve all written on at some point in our lives. Anyway, that used to be an old habit while I was growing up because now at this age, I don’t use diaries any longer😁  This is my first writing on this site after I was introduced by someone special. I decided to go into writing to see how I can make cash online because I’ve heard there are lots of good opportunities for content writers, as well as developing my writing skills and learning more about cryptocurrencies. I would be happy to have you all in my blog. 🥳💕🍾🥂💃🕺❤️