Since the earth revolves, all inhabitants of the earth are usually exposed to different situations per time. It is no news that the rotation of the earth is responsible for day and night and even seasons. Similarly, as good times evolve, bad times unavoidably evolve too. I doubt if anyone has passed through this earth without having to deal with one issue or the other. To say the least, life is not easy. However, no situation is permanent because the earth will revolve again bringing with it another experience. The defining thing is what you do when there is a crisis situation. You can choose to just throw in the towel or manage the crisis. If you let a crisis situation overwhelm you, then you lose. However, if you manage it effectively, you can turn it around for your good. Crises separate winners from losers.
Nobody prays for crisis, but when it comes as it sometimes will, manage it. You might not be able to determine the times, but you surely can decide how you handle it and that will determine your worth. Martin Luther King Jr. rightly pointed out that “the ultimate measure of a person is not where he or she stands in moments of comfort, but where he or she stands in times of challenge and controversy.”
Experience has taught me that no crisis situation is as terrible as it first appears and that every crisis situation has its own lessons and advantages, just that you must be objective enough to discover them. When faced with a crisis situation, still keep your cool. Think clearly, objectively and optimistically and you’ll be able to find solution(s) to the seemingly dreadful situation. Shockingly, you’ll even find some good in the bad situation. So whoever you are, wherever you are, whatever the crises may be, however mighty and threatening the crises may be, don’t give in. Suicide is never an option. Crime is never an option. Crying is not an option. Effective management of the crisis situation is your best bet.
Don’t let any crisis situation rob you of your dreams. Be indomitable. Be optimistic. Be objective. Be innovative. Be patient. Be successful.
Friday, 28 November 2008
Friday, 21 November 2008
DISCIPLINE IS THE ULTIMATE PRICE OF SUCCESS.
I have been around a little and I have seen. I’m of the opinion that nothing happens by chance. To win a prize, a price must be paid. While thinking of the several prices of success, I concluded that the ultimate price for enviable success is DISCIPLINE. Call me a moralist, but see what I mean…
The reason why majority fail to accomplish their set goals is because they are not disciplined enough to follow through. No accomplishment worthy of the name can ever be achieved and sustained without discipline (It’s one thing to attain an objective, it’s another to retain it. It’s no news that great men and women often fall because of indiscipline.). To lose weight, you must be disciplined enough to exercise regularly and probably place yourself on a diet. To succeed in your education, you must be disciplined enough to read hard and carry out assignments. To succeed in your vocation, you must be disciplined. To stay healthy, you must be disciplined. To fund a project, you must be disciplined enough to save for it. To succeed in sports generally, you must be disciplined enough to practice even when your body needs rest or when it’s not convenient. You’ll never get anywhere working for yourself if you’ve got no discipline. To even clinch a ticket for heaven (for those who believe in life after death), you must be disciplined. The list is endless. To achieve any worthwhile goal, you must be disciplined enough to stick to the plan and ideals. In a nutshell, you cannot possibly go far in life without discipline. Discipline is omnipotent.
Even animals are disciplined. Generally, all animals are disciplined enough to source for food to feed their young. Ants are disciplined enough to gather and store their food. Spiders are disciplined enough to set traps at odd hours for survival. The list is endless. If mere animals can be disciplined, you should be more disciplined for your own good. The dividends of discipline are innumerable among which are peace of mind, good health, bliss-full life and success-full life.
There are distractions and temptations everywhere and they can extinguish destinies. For instance, fashion has gone awry these days and unfortunately there are beautiful ladies in different sizes and shapes everywhere (lots of laugh). The era of wearing underpants have passed for most ladies, they’ve since migrated to the “g-strings” era. Some have even improvised, they no longer see the need to wear underpants or g-strings. Before it was only guys that sag trousers, but now ladies have joined the game. Before now, some ladies have the habit of opening some buttons to expose the cleavage, but now some don’t even wear bras anymore. You will agree with me that there are lots of distractions for men who are moved by what they see (lots of laugh). As a man, you cannot stop all ladies from indecent dressing, but you can choose to discipline your eyes, your feet and your tongue from “inviting trouble” (Word!). Distractions/temptations are adversaries, fight them. Discipline is the antidote.
You are not alone. Personally, I also have some issues to deal with. Writing has consistently exposed me to some areas of my life that needs improvement and I’m gradually becoming a better person because I don’t want to coach others to achieve a successful life while I’ll be found wanting. Discipline is a life-long struggle against self.
Discipline is everything. You don’t have to do anything if you don’t want to. You don’t have to do something that is not in your own interest. You don’t have to do anything that is morally wrong. Be disciplined.
Who’s in control of your life? What’s in control of your life? Save yourself of future regrets by resisting the “sins” that easily beset you before they destroy you. Steer clear of destiny extinguishers. Get on the driver’s seat! Take charge of your life! Partner with destiny! Succeed!
The reason why majority fail to accomplish their set goals is because they are not disciplined enough to follow through. No accomplishment worthy of the name can ever be achieved and sustained without discipline (It’s one thing to attain an objective, it’s another to retain it. It’s no news that great men and women often fall because of indiscipline.). To lose weight, you must be disciplined enough to exercise regularly and probably place yourself on a diet. To succeed in your education, you must be disciplined enough to read hard and carry out assignments. To succeed in your vocation, you must be disciplined. To stay healthy, you must be disciplined. To fund a project, you must be disciplined enough to save for it. To succeed in sports generally, you must be disciplined enough to practice even when your body needs rest or when it’s not convenient. You’ll never get anywhere working for yourself if you’ve got no discipline. To even clinch a ticket for heaven (for those who believe in life after death), you must be disciplined. The list is endless. To achieve any worthwhile goal, you must be disciplined enough to stick to the plan and ideals. In a nutshell, you cannot possibly go far in life without discipline. Discipline is omnipotent.
Even animals are disciplined. Generally, all animals are disciplined enough to source for food to feed their young. Ants are disciplined enough to gather and store their food. Spiders are disciplined enough to set traps at odd hours for survival. The list is endless. If mere animals can be disciplined, you should be more disciplined for your own good. The dividends of discipline are innumerable among which are peace of mind, good health, bliss-full life and success-full life.
There are distractions and temptations everywhere and they can extinguish destinies. For instance, fashion has gone awry these days and unfortunately there are beautiful ladies in different sizes and shapes everywhere (lots of laugh). The era of wearing underpants have passed for most ladies, they’ve since migrated to the “g-strings” era. Some have even improvised, they no longer see the need to wear underpants or g-strings. Before it was only guys that sag trousers, but now ladies have joined the game. Before now, some ladies have the habit of opening some buttons to expose the cleavage, but now some don’t even wear bras anymore. You will agree with me that there are lots of distractions for men who are moved by what they see (lots of laugh). As a man, you cannot stop all ladies from indecent dressing, but you can choose to discipline your eyes, your feet and your tongue from “inviting trouble” (Word!). Distractions/temptations are adversaries, fight them. Discipline is the antidote.
You are not alone. Personally, I also have some issues to deal with. Writing has consistently exposed me to some areas of my life that needs improvement and I’m gradually becoming a better person because I don’t want to coach others to achieve a successful life while I’ll be found wanting. Discipline is a life-long struggle against self.
Discipline is everything. You don’t have to do anything if you don’t want to. You don’t have to do something that is not in your own interest. You don’t have to do anything that is morally wrong. Be disciplined.
Who’s in control of your life? What’s in control of your life? Save yourself of future regrets by resisting the “sins” that easily beset you before they destroy you. Steer clear of destiny extinguishers. Get on the driver’s seat! Take charge of your life! Partner with destiny! Succeed!
Friday, 14 November 2008
BE CONTENTED.
Why do some civil servants collect bribe? Why do some politicians embezzle public funds? Why do some lecturers extort students? Why do some married folks commit adultery? Why do some brilliant youths involve themselves in crime? Why do some beautiful ladies from respectable families sleep around? Why are some law enforcement agents corrupt? Those were the questions that filled my thoughts earlier this week which in turn gave birth to this write-up. After some deep thinking sessions, I concluded that the chief reason why people involve themselves in despicable acts is because they are not contented with what they have. Call it another fib, but see what I mean…
A man that is not contented with what he has might be tempted to steal. A lady/woman that loves money might find it hard refusing rich men. An extravagant civil servant might be tempted to collect bribe. An impatient youth might resort to fraud/crime. A power-loving new entrant into a university might be tempted to join secret cult. The list is endless. Discontentment begets covetousness which in turn begets evils.
If you want to achieve true success and lasting peace, you must be contented with your position per time. This is not to say that you should rest on your oars, you should strive to improve your situation legitimately instead of cutting corners. Cutting corners robs you of your potentials. It can even mar your destiny. The repercussions of cutting corners are unrest, regrets and pains. Instead of using your ingenuity negatively, use it positively. Map out a workable plan that will make you independent and follow through though the heavens fall.
If your income is not enough to meet your needs, strive to leave the position for a better position where you can stand on your own without having to collect bribe, embezzle public funds or look up to anybody for favors. Be contented with your spouse, develop him/her to your standard if you have to. In any situation you find yourself, be contented. Crime is never an option. Don’t envy others. Be happy with what you have where you are and use that base to launch yourself to a higher height where you can function in your capacity. Maximize the opportunities where you are. Maximize your potentials. Be the best you can be.
Don’t throw away the glorious future ahead of you. You will eventually get all the beautiful things you covet with time if you stick to the plan. Be patient, all will be well.
A man that is not contented with what he has might be tempted to steal. A lady/woman that loves money might find it hard refusing rich men. An extravagant civil servant might be tempted to collect bribe. An impatient youth might resort to fraud/crime. A power-loving new entrant into a university might be tempted to join secret cult. The list is endless. Discontentment begets covetousness which in turn begets evils.
If you want to achieve true success and lasting peace, you must be contented with your position per time. This is not to say that you should rest on your oars, you should strive to improve your situation legitimately instead of cutting corners. Cutting corners robs you of your potentials. It can even mar your destiny. The repercussions of cutting corners are unrest, regrets and pains. Instead of using your ingenuity negatively, use it positively. Map out a workable plan that will make you independent and follow through though the heavens fall.
If your income is not enough to meet your needs, strive to leave the position for a better position where you can stand on your own without having to collect bribe, embezzle public funds or look up to anybody for favors. Be contented with your spouse, develop him/her to your standard if you have to. In any situation you find yourself, be contented. Crime is never an option. Don’t envy others. Be happy with what you have where you are and use that base to launch yourself to a higher height where you can function in your capacity. Maximize the opportunities where you are. Maximize your potentials. Be the best you can be.
Don’t throw away the glorious future ahead of you. You will eventually get all the beautiful things you covet with time if you stick to the plan. Be patient, all will be well.
Friday, 7 November 2008
CLARION CALL – a prose by Ibukunolu Ishola
Man is Universe’s beneficiary, yet few possess their rightful possessions.
Nature is lavish, yet few live in abundance.
The laws were made for Man’s good, yet the laws work against Man.
Herbs were made for Man to heal his diseases, yet Man abuses drugs to his detriment.
The Creator endowed Man with wisdom to re-create, instead Man manufactures weapons of destruction and uses same on self.
Man is blessed with innumerable natural resources, yet many nations fail to properly utilize them for their good.
What an irony; a mockery of creation, a sheer wickedness to self.
Oh what an otiose round of pursuits we often engage ourselves in,
Oh what needless pain we bear,
Oh what peace we often forfeit,
All because we are not functioning in our capacities.
Why should the custodians of the Universe be living as tenants? It shouldn’t be.
Let’s return to the ideal situation.
Let’s accept responsibility.
Let’s seek restoration.
Let’s right the wrongs.
Let’s heal our Land.
Let’s harness our resources.
Let’s maximize our potentials.
Let’s create abundance and live in it.
Let’s love one another.
Let’s live together in perfect harmony.
Let’s emancipate ourselves.
Let’s change our world (individually and collectively).
Let’s rule our world.
The time is now.
Nature is lavish, yet few live in abundance.
The laws were made for Man’s good, yet the laws work against Man.
Herbs were made for Man to heal his diseases, yet Man abuses drugs to his detriment.
The Creator endowed Man with wisdom to re-create, instead Man manufactures weapons of destruction and uses same on self.
Man is blessed with innumerable natural resources, yet many nations fail to properly utilize them for their good.
What an irony; a mockery of creation, a sheer wickedness to self.
Oh what an otiose round of pursuits we often engage ourselves in,
Oh what needless pain we bear,
Oh what peace we often forfeit,
All because we are not functioning in our capacities.
Why should the custodians of the Universe be living as tenants? It shouldn’t be.
Let’s return to the ideal situation.
Let’s accept responsibility.
Let’s seek restoration.
Let’s right the wrongs.
Let’s heal our Land.
Let’s harness our resources.
Let’s maximize our potentials.
Let’s create abundance and live in it.
Let’s love one another.
Let’s live together in perfect harmony.
Let’s emancipate ourselves.
Let’s change our world (individually and collectively).
Let’s rule our world.
The time is now.
Friday, 31 October 2008
RENEW YOUR MIND.
I know of a gardener who earns a meager salary of N7,000.00 (approximately $60) in a month and he’s loving it (he’s not complaining). The area earmarked for only him to keep despite his age is so large that his work is tantamount to slavery especially because he uses cutlass and not lawnmower. I once advised him to leave the work and use his strength to farm instead, but he told me blatantly that he hates risks and that he prefers to wait till month end for the small thing that comes to him. He refers to himself as a poor man and he has gladly accepted his fate. His feeling of negativity is even contagious. He walks kilometers to and from work every working day. On a particular sunny afternoon, I stopped a taxi for him with the intention of paying his fare only for him to tell me that he prefers to trek. He however asked me to give him the money instead so that he could buy some cigarettes with it. I was tempted to slap him but I resisted the urge because he’s old enough to be my father. I then concluded that his mindset is his archenemy and that if I’ll ever make a positive impact in his life, I must help him renew his mind. I’m still on the mission and I won’t give up on him.
I also remember a middle aged man with four (4) kids that I tried to help sometimes ago. I observed that he had no other means of livelihood other than farming. He was really suffering and I pitied his wife and kids especially. So I approached him to discuss about his situation and to devise a way of escape from the poverty that plagued his family. I was shocked to learn that he was skilled in three (3) different vocations (auto mechanic, vulcanizing and wheel balancing/alignment). I asked him to pick any of the three vocations he could start right away if he had access to some funds and he picked vulcanizing. He told me he was even saving to fund the plan. I was so impressed with his story that I gave him a substantial sum to buy the engine he needs to start up. He thanked me wholeheartedly and promised to keep me posted with developments. Believe me, that was the last time we ever conversed because he has been avoiding me ever since. I bet he must have squandered the money because his situation has not improved and he didn’t ever start vulcanizing. The thought still rips my heart apart. I blame myself for not brainwashing him before giving him the money, it would have made a difference.
With these two instances I narrated above and others too numerous to mention on these pages, I have reasonably concluded that there’s no way one can help someone with a messed up mentality, except through brainwashing. If you give such person money or other valuable resources, chances are that they will be squandered. And that’s why I strongly believe that of all the plagues that can befall a man, the losing of one’s mind is the worst of it all. Once the mind is lost/messed up, the person’s destiny is sealed because no one can possibly go farther than his thoughts.
The mind (“the part of a person that makes them able to be aware of things, to think and to feel: the conscious/subconscious mind” OR “the particular way that somebody thinks” according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary) is the seat of reason and creativity. The mind conceives ideas and then summons the other faculties to bring them to fruition. No one can succeed without a sound mind. As tiny as the rudder is (compared to the size of the ship), it still controls the direction of the ship. Similarly, the mind controls the whole body, actions and reactions of humans. Thus, the first step in the process of emancipation is renewing one’s mind and the need for it to be done from time to time cannot be overemphasized.
Flush out negative thoughts constantly: Refuse to believe that life is harsh. Refuse to believe that you can’t change your fortune. Refuse to believe that you can’t emancipate yourself from mediocrity. Refuse to believe that you can’t challenge the status quo. Refuse to believe that you can’t change the course of history. Refuse to believe that you do not deserve better than where you are. Vehemently reject mediocrity. Vehemently reject failure.
Let in positive and constructive thoughts constantly: Read new books. Learn new ropes. Go via uncharted waters. Rub minds with great minds to discuss ideas. You must believe that life is beautiful. You must believe that nature is lavish (All resources are in surplus: there’s plenty of land for every living human being to build on, there’s plenty of water for every living thing to drink, there are plenty of herbs to cure our diseases, there’s plenty of food [plants and animals] for all to eat to satisfaction. The list is endless). You must believe there are opportunities everywhere. You must believe in possibilities. You must believe in miracles. You must believe that dreams come true. You must believe in love. And most importantly, you must believe in yourself.
Once your mind is renewed, you’ll have clear direction and tactic, fresh energy and enthusiasm to pursue your dreams which will in turn usher in miracles. It is thus evident that to change your world, all you might simply need to do is to change your mindset.
Think change? Think mind-renewal.
I also remember a middle aged man with four (4) kids that I tried to help sometimes ago. I observed that he had no other means of livelihood other than farming. He was really suffering and I pitied his wife and kids especially. So I approached him to discuss about his situation and to devise a way of escape from the poverty that plagued his family. I was shocked to learn that he was skilled in three (3) different vocations (auto mechanic, vulcanizing and wheel balancing/alignment). I asked him to pick any of the three vocations he could start right away if he had access to some funds and he picked vulcanizing. He told me he was even saving to fund the plan. I was so impressed with his story that I gave him a substantial sum to buy the engine he needs to start up. He thanked me wholeheartedly and promised to keep me posted with developments. Believe me, that was the last time we ever conversed because he has been avoiding me ever since. I bet he must have squandered the money because his situation has not improved and he didn’t ever start vulcanizing. The thought still rips my heart apart. I blame myself for not brainwashing him before giving him the money, it would have made a difference.
With these two instances I narrated above and others too numerous to mention on these pages, I have reasonably concluded that there’s no way one can help someone with a messed up mentality, except through brainwashing. If you give such person money or other valuable resources, chances are that they will be squandered. And that’s why I strongly believe that of all the plagues that can befall a man, the losing of one’s mind is the worst of it all. Once the mind is lost/messed up, the person’s destiny is sealed because no one can possibly go farther than his thoughts.
The mind (“the part of a person that makes them able to be aware of things, to think and to feel: the conscious/subconscious mind” OR “the particular way that somebody thinks” according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary) is the seat of reason and creativity. The mind conceives ideas and then summons the other faculties to bring them to fruition. No one can succeed without a sound mind. As tiny as the rudder is (compared to the size of the ship), it still controls the direction of the ship. Similarly, the mind controls the whole body, actions and reactions of humans. Thus, the first step in the process of emancipation is renewing one’s mind and the need for it to be done from time to time cannot be overemphasized.
Flush out negative thoughts constantly: Refuse to believe that life is harsh. Refuse to believe that you can’t change your fortune. Refuse to believe that you can’t emancipate yourself from mediocrity. Refuse to believe that you can’t challenge the status quo. Refuse to believe that you can’t change the course of history. Refuse to believe that you do not deserve better than where you are. Vehemently reject mediocrity. Vehemently reject failure.
Let in positive and constructive thoughts constantly: Read new books. Learn new ropes. Go via uncharted waters. Rub minds with great minds to discuss ideas. You must believe that life is beautiful. You must believe that nature is lavish (All resources are in surplus: there’s plenty of land for every living human being to build on, there’s plenty of water for every living thing to drink, there are plenty of herbs to cure our diseases, there’s plenty of food [plants and animals] for all to eat to satisfaction. The list is endless). You must believe there are opportunities everywhere. You must believe in possibilities. You must believe in miracles. You must believe that dreams come true. You must believe in love. And most importantly, you must believe in yourself.
Once your mind is renewed, you’ll have clear direction and tactic, fresh energy and enthusiasm to pursue your dreams which will in turn usher in miracles. It is thus evident that to change your world, all you might simply need to do is to change your mindset.
Think change? Think mind-renewal.
Friday, 24 October 2008
THE LAWS AND MAN.
Without the laws, our world would definitely be in chaos. Imagine how our world would be if it’s not unlawful to rape…women will probably be living in caves in distant islands! Imagine if it’s not unlawful to kill fellow humans…life will constantly be snuffed out of multitudes on a daily basis. Imagine if it’s not unlawful to steal…the strong would constantly take advantage of the weak, the lazy ones won’t even have to work, they’ll just wait for others to work while they’ll steal from them thereafter. The list is endless. Knowing fully well what Man is capable of, the Master Planner puts laws in place so that we may live meaningful lives. These laws are implanted in everyone as CONSCIENCE (the part of your mind that tells you whether your actions are right or wrong according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary) to keep us in check. But still, we ignore the suggestions of the Still Voice inside us many times in order to satisfy our lust. What a farce! Whereas, the laws were made for Man’s good; the laws were made not as a punitive measure but to guide Man into his divine destiny. The obedience of the laws leads to a successful life while disobedience attracts the corresponding reward(s) called repercussion(s). Personally, I’ll be lying without conscience if I say I’m not guilty of breaking some laws in the past or that I’m still not vulnerable of breaking some even now. But I keep reminding myself that if I’m to attain and retain the great height that I covet, I MUST live right and that puts me in check. Thus, this is a call for everyone (irrespective of religion) desirous of success in this life and in the life hereafter (if you so believe) to keep the laws.
What are the laws? What are the benefits of keeping the laws? Are there punishments for not keeping the laws?
Simply put, a law is a rule for good behavior; the transgression of which is SIN (Sin is the act of breaking a religious or moral [concerned with principles of right and wrong behavior] law according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary). Anything your conscience doesn’t judge right is wrong. As important as the subject is, law is even studied in tertiary institutions. Sadly enough, with millions of lawyers and other law enforcement agencies, even with endless sermons of religious leaders, naughty Man still transgresses against the laws to his own detriment. It’s pathetic, isn’t it?
The benefits of keeping the laws are innumerable. If I’m to summarize, I’ll say it’s the pathway to peace, happiness, good health and success-full life.
And yes, there are repercussions for not keeping the laws; some of which are eternal. For instance, the moral law says “don’t commit fornication/adultery”…but go ahead and commit fornication/adultery and you’ll be at the risk of contacting sexually transmitted diseases. For the female folks, it may even be unwanted pregnancy or worse still, it could cost you your marriage (in the case of married women). For men, whichever way you look at it, the pursuit of multiple women subtracts from you; it takes your time, funds, energy, name it…really there’s no pursuit as expensive as the pursuit of women. Another moral law says “don’t steal”…but go ahead and steal and woe betides you should you be caught by angry mobs, you might never live to tell the tales. Even if you’re eventually handed over to the law enforcement agents, you’re likely to be prosecuted and thereafter jailed. Another law says “don’t rape”... but go ahead and rape and woe betides you should you be caught, you might have to cool off for sometime in prison. Another moral law says “don’t kill”…but go ahead and kill and you’ll likely face the capital punishment. The list is endless. In a nutshell, disobedience to any law yields unpleasant dividend(s); it derails one from the success path and inevitably attracts nothing but unrest, guilt, sorrow-full life and worse still it can jeopardize where one spends his eternity. So, it’s not wise at all to indulge in breaking the laws, it’s not worth it; the pleasures of sin are not commensurate to the repercussions it attracts; it’s destructive.
So, live right if you want to be successful in this life and in the life hereafter. Let him that hath an ear hear: keep the laws and prosper OR transgress against the laws and face the repercussions thereafter. Decide your fate; it’s your call.
What are the laws? What are the benefits of keeping the laws? Are there punishments for not keeping the laws?
Simply put, a law is a rule for good behavior; the transgression of which is SIN (Sin is the act of breaking a religious or moral [concerned with principles of right and wrong behavior] law according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary). Anything your conscience doesn’t judge right is wrong. As important as the subject is, law is even studied in tertiary institutions. Sadly enough, with millions of lawyers and other law enforcement agencies, even with endless sermons of religious leaders, naughty Man still transgresses against the laws to his own detriment. It’s pathetic, isn’t it?
The benefits of keeping the laws are innumerable. If I’m to summarize, I’ll say it’s the pathway to peace, happiness, good health and success-full life.
And yes, there are repercussions for not keeping the laws; some of which are eternal. For instance, the moral law says “don’t commit fornication/adultery”…but go ahead and commit fornication/adultery and you’ll be at the risk of contacting sexually transmitted diseases. For the female folks, it may even be unwanted pregnancy or worse still, it could cost you your marriage (in the case of married women). For men, whichever way you look at it, the pursuit of multiple women subtracts from you; it takes your time, funds, energy, name it…really there’s no pursuit as expensive as the pursuit of women. Another moral law says “don’t steal”…but go ahead and steal and woe betides you should you be caught by angry mobs, you might never live to tell the tales. Even if you’re eventually handed over to the law enforcement agents, you’re likely to be prosecuted and thereafter jailed. Another law says “don’t rape”... but go ahead and rape and woe betides you should you be caught, you might have to cool off for sometime in prison. Another moral law says “don’t kill”…but go ahead and kill and you’ll likely face the capital punishment. The list is endless. In a nutshell, disobedience to any law yields unpleasant dividend(s); it derails one from the success path and inevitably attracts nothing but unrest, guilt, sorrow-full life and worse still it can jeopardize where one spends his eternity. So, it’s not wise at all to indulge in breaking the laws, it’s not worth it; the pleasures of sin are not commensurate to the repercussions it attracts; it’s destructive.
So, live right if you want to be successful in this life and in the life hereafter. Let him that hath an ear hear: keep the laws and prosper OR transgress against the laws and face the repercussions thereafter. Decide your fate; it’s your call.
Friday, 17 October 2008
GOOD HEALTH IS CRUCIAL TO SUCCESS.
It’s only the living that can dream, plan, act and accomplish in the land of the living, the dead can do nothing. However, it’s not all the living that can run around in the pursuit of their goals, it’s only those that are in good health that can. Thus, it is evident that good health is very crucial to success. But alas, little is often said about the importance of safeguarding one’s health in the quest for success in motivational/success books. Whereas health is EVERYTHING; when health is lost, all is lost. Hence, the need to remind the living of the importance of their health to the attainment of their dreams comes as a welcoming idea.
The human system can be likened to a machine. Although amazing in its operations, the human system is still prone to damages/break down like every other machine. To avoid down time, the human system needs to be serviced constantly. During the down time, it needs to be fixed so that it won’t pack up completely. Unfortunately, many pursue their dreams at the expense of their health. Worse still, many jeopardize their health with their reckless lifestyles. Sadly, it’s not all damages to the system that can be rectified, some are terminal. Isn’t it sheer stupidity then for anyone to behave as if life has a duplicate? The answer is affirmative.
Ill health is a threat to dreams. Worse still, death is an extinguisher of dreams. Thus, the need for you to safeguard your health in order to stay alive and healthy cannot be overemphasized because every other pursuit depends on it. By safeguarding your health, you’re simply safeguarding your dreams.
Clearly, there’s no substitute for good health. Since your body is not immune to damages, it is only wise that you steer clear of anything that can jeopardize your health or even cut short your life. Learn more about your body and do all you can to safeguard it; spiritually, physically, psychologically. Take out time to relax regularly. Sleep well. Eat well. Exercise well. And most importantly, forsake your enemies: cigarette, too much of alcohol intake, indiscriminate sex, too much of sugar intake, hard drugs, to name a few. Discipline yourself for the sake of your dreams.
It’s only when you’re alive and healthy that you can be success-bound. So, it is imperative that you adopt a healthy lifestyle if you want to feature in the future you’ve pictured. Be wise.
The human system can be likened to a machine. Although amazing in its operations, the human system is still prone to damages/break down like every other machine. To avoid down time, the human system needs to be serviced constantly. During the down time, it needs to be fixed so that it won’t pack up completely. Unfortunately, many pursue their dreams at the expense of their health. Worse still, many jeopardize their health with their reckless lifestyles. Sadly, it’s not all damages to the system that can be rectified, some are terminal. Isn’t it sheer stupidity then for anyone to behave as if life has a duplicate? The answer is affirmative.
Ill health is a threat to dreams. Worse still, death is an extinguisher of dreams. Thus, the need for you to safeguard your health in order to stay alive and healthy cannot be overemphasized because every other pursuit depends on it. By safeguarding your health, you’re simply safeguarding your dreams.
Clearly, there’s no substitute for good health. Since your body is not immune to damages, it is only wise that you steer clear of anything that can jeopardize your health or even cut short your life. Learn more about your body and do all you can to safeguard it; spiritually, physically, psychologically. Take out time to relax regularly. Sleep well. Eat well. Exercise well. And most importantly, forsake your enemies: cigarette, too much of alcohol intake, indiscriminate sex, too much of sugar intake, hard drugs, to name a few. Discipline yourself for the sake of your dreams.
It’s only when you’re alive and healthy that you can be success-bound. So, it is imperative that you adopt a healthy lifestyle if you want to feature in the future you’ve pictured. Be wise.
Friday, 10 October 2008
DIG DEEP.
We are living in an all-inclusive world (All that we need to survive and thrive are embedded in our dependable world. Every material Man needs to recreate everything he needs is embedded in our world. All that Man needs to solve his problems are embedded in our world). Yet, only a fraction of the world’s population lives in abundance and dominance. While probing for the cause of the shortfall, I concluded that majority do not dig deep enough to discover and exploit the needed materials for their independence. Call it homespun philosophy, but see what I mean…
No doubt, the Architect of our world is wise. He knew that life will obviously lose its meaning if man gets all he wants without thinking or working for it. Imagine…how would our world be if crude oil were to be fetched from streams? How would our world be if gold were to be grown like maize? How would our world be if diamonds were to be plucked like apples? How would our world be if sufficient food for each day were to be delivered to our doorsteps every morning? There wouldn’t have been any reason to think, work or to be prudent. Furthermore, Man would have been robbed of the opportunity to recreate for himself what he desires from the raw materials nature has in store. So in order for Him not to spoon-feed Man, the Creator made all that Man needs in the same world where Man lives but hid them from Man (every natural resource and endowment is often concealed, although the depth of concealment may differ from resource to resource, from endowment to endowment and from location to location). It’s now left for Man to discover and utilize the hidden resources for his good or perhaps suffer amidst plenty. If Man will ever exploit the hidden resources available to him, he must dig deep.
Imagine the number of lives malaria fever must have claimed before the discovery of its cure. Imagine the number of children polio must have maimed before the vaccine was discovered. Imagine the number of lives tuberculosis must have claimed before the discovery of its cure and vaccine. Yet, the vaccine and the cure for these diseases had always been with Man, just that they were hidden from Man. When scientists and researchers eventually dug deeper, they finally came up with the vaccine and the cure for these diseases. And that’s why I firmly believe that there’ll be vaccine and total cure for Cancer, HIV/AIDS and other dreaded incurable diseases someday, just that scientists and researchers must dig deeper.
Imagine the world without crude oil. Yet, the natural resource eluded us for centuries despite the fact that we’ve always had huge reservoir of it beneath us. I reiterate that the Creator has made provision for all our needs, just that Man must find and use the provisions to “recreate” to suit his needs. For instance, the Creator only made crude oil, but Man refines it to get petrol, diesel, gas, bitumen to name a few which Man uses for different purposes. Alas, countless natural resources are yet to be discovered. Man has not even been able to maximize the usage of the ones that have been discovered. Hence, the reason for Man to dig deeper to find more answers.
To heal ourselves of our diseases, to make available our needs, to amass wealth, to fulfill our purpose, to live our dreams, we (individually and collectively) need to dig deeper than ever. Even in our personal lives, the ability to dig deeper in the pursuit of the target will eventually separate winners from losers. The quest will definitely not be easy though, it’ll call for effort, determination, patience and sacrifice. I’m of the opinion that if the reward is good enough, the problems shouldn’t matter. Besides, as the Yorubas will say, “Eni ti o ba fe je oyin inu apata kii wo enu aake.” (which literarily means “The person that wants to eat the honey in the rock does not look at the mouth of the axe”). Every achievement worthy of the name has its price.
Are you about giving up on that research? Please don’t, many destinies are tied to the discovery. Keep digging into your mind and environment, the solution which you seek is there but for discovery. Are you about giving up on finding a good job? Please don’t, keep digging for employment opportunities; jobs are always there, but for discovery. Are you about giving up on the solution to a challenge? Please don’t, the solution is there but for discovery. Whatever the pursuit maybe, keep digging till you attain. Don’t stop inches away from your breakthrough. Don’t dig amiss; dig right, dig smart.
Keep digging. Keep finding. Keep succeeding.
No doubt, the Architect of our world is wise. He knew that life will obviously lose its meaning if man gets all he wants without thinking or working for it. Imagine…how would our world be if crude oil were to be fetched from streams? How would our world be if gold were to be grown like maize? How would our world be if diamonds were to be plucked like apples? How would our world be if sufficient food for each day were to be delivered to our doorsteps every morning? There wouldn’t have been any reason to think, work or to be prudent. Furthermore, Man would have been robbed of the opportunity to recreate for himself what he desires from the raw materials nature has in store. So in order for Him not to spoon-feed Man, the Creator made all that Man needs in the same world where Man lives but hid them from Man (every natural resource and endowment is often concealed, although the depth of concealment may differ from resource to resource, from endowment to endowment and from location to location). It’s now left for Man to discover and utilize the hidden resources for his good or perhaps suffer amidst plenty. If Man will ever exploit the hidden resources available to him, he must dig deep.
Imagine the number of lives malaria fever must have claimed before the discovery of its cure. Imagine the number of children polio must have maimed before the vaccine was discovered. Imagine the number of lives tuberculosis must have claimed before the discovery of its cure and vaccine. Yet, the vaccine and the cure for these diseases had always been with Man, just that they were hidden from Man. When scientists and researchers eventually dug deeper, they finally came up with the vaccine and the cure for these diseases. And that’s why I firmly believe that there’ll be vaccine and total cure for Cancer, HIV/AIDS and other dreaded incurable diseases someday, just that scientists and researchers must dig deeper.
Imagine the world without crude oil. Yet, the natural resource eluded us for centuries despite the fact that we’ve always had huge reservoir of it beneath us. I reiterate that the Creator has made provision for all our needs, just that Man must find and use the provisions to “recreate” to suit his needs. For instance, the Creator only made crude oil, but Man refines it to get petrol, diesel, gas, bitumen to name a few which Man uses for different purposes. Alas, countless natural resources are yet to be discovered. Man has not even been able to maximize the usage of the ones that have been discovered. Hence, the reason for Man to dig deeper to find more answers.
To heal ourselves of our diseases, to make available our needs, to amass wealth, to fulfill our purpose, to live our dreams, we (individually and collectively) need to dig deeper than ever. Even in our personal lives, the ability to dig deeper in the pursuit of the target will eventually separate winners from losers. The quest will definitely not be easy though, it’ll call for effort, determination, patience and sacrifice. I’m of the opinion that if the reward is good enough, the problems shouldn’t matter. Besides, as the Yorubas will say, “Eni ti o ba fe je oyin inu apata kii wo enu aake.” (which literarily means “The person that wants to eat the honey in the rock does not look at the mouth of the axe”). Every achievement worthy of the name has its price.
Are you about giving up on that research? Please don’t, many destinies are tied to the discovery. Keep digging into your mind and environment, the solution which you seek is there but for discovery. Are you about giving up on finding a good job? Please don’t, keep digging for employment opportunities; jobs are always there, but for discovery. Are you about giving up on the solution to a challenge? Please don’t, the solution is there but for discovery. Whatever the pursuit maybe, keep digging till you attain. Don’t stop inches away from your breakthrough. Don’t dig amiss; dig right, dig smart.
Keep digging. Keep finding. Keep succeeding.
Tuesday, 30 September 2008
CONFESSION MATTERS.
Confession goes a long way in determining success or failure in any undertaking. Your thoughts and the words that eventually proceed out of your mouth (which is an indication of the state of your mind) have a lot to do with how things eventually turn out for you. Many have unknowingly sentenced themselves to perpetual poverty because of their repeated affirmations. Many often remain stagnant because of their confessions. Many fail in situations where they could easily succeed because of their confessions. Thus, it is evident that the mind and the tongue can both be the enemy. Call me a self-proclaimed shrink, but see what I mean…
Naturally, you can’t plant thorns and expect to reap oranges; it contradicts the law of sowing and reaping. In the same vein, you cannot store up thoughts of failure in your mind, affirm defeat and then expect to succeed; it contradicts the natural law. Your thoughts and words are very powerful; invisible, yet potent. Once you conjure it and you eventually let it out, your words permeate your subconscious mind to impress upon it your confession. Negative thoughts and utterances snuff out life from possible situations, while positive thoughts and utterances give life and momentum to situations. So in the long run, irrespective of your religion, you’ll end up having what you’ve been thinking and confessing. Thus, it is pertinent that you think and speak positively so that you can always achieve positive results.
If you’ve been adversely affected by wrong confessions in the past, all you need to do to simply change your fortune is to change your mindset and utterances; unwind the bad thoughts and affirmations and then re-suggest and re-impress positively on your mind. When you believe you can, your subconscious mind begins to suggest solutions to the seemingly impossible task(s) and before you know it, the impossible will become possible; it’s invincible.
Our Universe favors those who think and confess positively; it’s magical. Irrespective of your situation, be positive always and you’ll be surprised at how the universe will turn around everything for your good. The result(s) may not come instantaneously, but it’ll manifest with time.
Keep saying it. Keep believing it. Keep making it.
Naturally, you can’t plant thorns and expect to reap oranges; it contradicts the law of sowing and reaping. In the same vein, you cannot store up thoughts of failure in your mind, affirm defeat and then expect to succeed; it contradicts the natural law. Your thoughts and words are very powerful; invisible, yet potent. Once you conjure it and you eventually let it out, your words permeate your subconscious mind to impress upon it your confession. Negative thoughts and utterances snuff out life from possible situations, while positive thoughts and utterances give life and momentum to situations. So in the long run, irrespective of your religion, you’ll end up having what you’ve been thinking and confessing. Thus, it is pertinent that you think and speak positively so that you can always achieve positive results.
If you’ve been adversely affected by wrong confessions in the past, all you need to do to simply change your fortune is to change your mindset and utterances; unwind the bad thoughts and affirmations and then re-suggest and re-impress positively on your mind. When you believe you can, your subconscious mind begins to suggest solutions to the seemingly impossible task(s) and before you know it, the impossible will become possible; it’s invincible.
Our Universe favors those who think and confess positively; it’s magical. Irrespective of your situation, be positive always and you’ll be surprised at how the universe will turn around everything for your good. The result(s) may not come instantaneously, but it’ll manifest with time.
Keep saying it. Keep believing it. Keep making it.
Friday, 26 September 2008
FOCUS ON THE POSSIBILITIES, NOT THE ODDS.
Focusing on the odds instead of the possibilities is undoubtedly one of the enemies of progress. Many lose momentum in the pursuit of their dreams because they focus on the odds instead of the possibilities. Worst still, many totally give up on their dreams because they focus on the odds instead of the possibilities. On the other hand, it can be safely concluded that focusing on the possibilities instead of the odds is one sure way to clinch success. Call it a desultory thought, but see what I mean…
Since there are two sides to a coin, I totally agree that it’s only natural for you as a rational human being to think of the possible outcomes of an action before taking action. However, it should be noted that you’ll totally lose out if you don’t take action at all; you’ll end up losing all (100%) the probability of winning. Besides, there’s no foolproof course of action. Even in the bid to decide something by chance using the coin, you cannot determine the side of the coin (the head or the tail) that will be facing upwards until it’s tossed. So, it’s still important that you take action even in the face of glaring odds. Stop thinking “What if it doesn’t work?”, start thinking “What if it works?”. Be optimistic at all times.
Is it that you want to start a new business and you’re scared of investing your capital because of fear of failure? Instead of concentrating on the odds, think of the possibilities…what if the business flourishes? What if it’ll liberate me from the shackles of “slavery”? What if it’ll help me achieve financial independence?
Is it that you want to launch an album and you’re scared of investing on it because you think the album might not sell well? Instead of concentrating on the odds, think of the possibilities…what if I end up selling millions of copies of the album? What if it’s the album that’ll make me a celebrity? What if it’ll open more doors for me?
Is it that you want to bid for a project and you’re scared of wasting your resources and time should you lose? Instead of concentrating on the odds, think of the possibilities…what if I win the bid for the project? Or worse still, what if I lose this particular bid and win another in the future based on the experience I must have acquired while bidding for this particular project?
Whatever your situation may be, whatever you plan to embark on, don’t give up without trying. There’ll always be reasons why you shouldn’t embark on your plans and you’ll forever limit yourself if you give in to them (playing safe will prevent you from moving to the next level). At all times, irrespective of your circumstances, concentrate only on the possibilities (blindfold yourself to the odds) and then you’ll have enough reasons to take action. And when you act, the probability of losing will no longer be 100% because you would have conquered inertia. Even when you try and you happen to lose, you would have learnt valuable lessons that will equip you for the next try.
However, your sense of judgment must be sound. Think through before embarking on any action, there are times when a retreat is not cowardice but wisdom. Caution is the watchword, be wise.
Dream well. Think well. Plan well. Focus well. Act well. Succeed well.
Since there are two sides to a coin, I totally agree that it’s only natural for you as a rational human being to think of the possible outcomes of an action before taking action. However, it should be noted that you’ll totally lose out if you don’t take action at all; you’ll end up losing all (100%) the probability of winning. Besides, there’s no foolproof course of action. Even in the bid to decide something by chance using the coin, you cannot determine the side of the coin (the head or the tail) that will be facing upwards until it’s tossed. So, it’s still important that you take action even in the face of glaring odds. Stop thinking “What if it doesn’t work?”, start thinking “What if it works?”. Be optimistic at all times.
Is it that you want to start a new business and you’re scared of investing your capital because of fear of failure? Instead of concentrating on the odds, think of the possibilities…what if the business flourishes? What if it’ll liberate me from the shackles of “slavery”? What if it’ll help me achieve financial independence?
Is it that you want to launch an album and you’re scared of investing on it because you think the album might not sell well? Instead of concentrating on the odds, think of the possibilities…what if I end up selling millions of copies of the album? What if it’s the album that’ll make me a celebrity? What if it’ll open more doors for me?
Is it that you want to bid for a project and you’re scared of wasting your resources and time should you lose? Instead of concentrating on the odds, think of the possibilities…what if I win the bid for the project? Or worse still, what if I lose this particular bid and win another in the future based on the experience I must have acquired while bidding for this particular project?
Whatever your situation may be, whatever you plan to embark on, don’t give up without trying. There’ll always be reasons why you shouldn’t embark on your plans and you’ll forever limit yourself if you give in to them (playing safe will prevent you from moving to the next level). At all times, irrespective of your circumstances, concentrate only on the possibilities (blindfold yourself to the odds) and then you’ll have enough reasons to take action. And when you act, the probability of losing will no longer be 100% because you would have conquered inertia. Even when you try and you happen to lose, you would have learnt valuable lessons that will equip you for the next try.
However, your sense of judgment must be sound. Think through before embarking on any action, there are times when a retreat is not cowardice but wisdom. Caution is the watchword, be wise.
Dream well. Think well. Plan well. Focus well. Act well. Succeed well.
Friday, 19 September 2008
REINFORCE YOUR DESIRE FOR SUCCESS.
It is no secret that everybody wants to succeed in life. Everybody can actually succeed, but alas, everybody can’t succeed because many will give up on their dreams. Call me a prophet of doom, but see what I mean…
Life is not easy; never was, never will. As a matter of fact, show me a man whose life is challenge-free and I’ll show you a vegetable. Every objective worthy of the name is usually attached with strings called challenges. Life itself is full of challenges and when challenges come, as they sometimes will, only a fraction of dreamers withstand them. While thinking of the reasons why many concede defeat, I concluded that the chief is the lack of an ingredient called DESIRE in the quest for actualizing the objective. Desire (“a strong wish to have or do something” according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary) is the basis for initiating and executing any objective and once it’s lacking, the dreamer may likely relinquish the objective in the face of challenges. To pull through any challenging situation, the desire to attain the objective must be strong enough. Thus, this is a call for everyone desirous of meaningful success in life to reinforce their desires.
When faced with challenges, you need reasons why you should not give up on your objective, and it’s only your desire(s) that can give you the guts to confront and surmount the challenges. Personally, it’s too late for me to give up on my dreams in life; I’ve crossed the Rubicon. My strong desire to succeed fuels my ambition; it keeps me going even in the face of discouragements and challenges. And I have resolved that “so long as there’s a breath in me, that long I will persist till I join the caucus of successful people”. Even when my strength fails me, as it sometimes does, my strong desire won’t let me relinquish my dream still. Desire is everything; it’s omnipotent. Thus, I encourage you to reinforce your desire for success.
What is your goal and what is the challenge debarring it? Is it to proffer solution to a seemingly impossible task? Is it to save for an expensive, long-term project? Is it to attain a lofty height? Is it to attain financial independence? Is it to reach the zenith of your career? Is it to build a happy home? Or is it to sustain your marriage? Whatever it is, reinforce your desire to achieve the objective, and you’ll be amazed that from somewhere the wherewithal to pull through will be bestowed on you. You bet.
Keep dreaming. Keep desiring. Keep pursuing. Keep achieving.
Life is not easy; never was, never will. As a matter of fact, show me a man whose life is challenge-free and I’ll show you a vegetable. Every objective worthy of the name is usually attached with strings called challenges. Life itself is full of challenges and when challenges come, as they sometimes will, only a fraction of dreamers withstand them. While thinking of the reasons why many concede defeat, I concluded that the chief is the lack of an ingredient called DESIRE in the quest for actualizing the objective. Desire (“a strong wish to have or do something” according to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary) is the basis for initiating and executing any objective and once it’s lacking, the dreamer may likely relinquish the objective in the face of challenges. To pull through any challenging situation, the desire to attain the objective must be strong enough. Thus, this is a call for everyone desirous of meaningful success in life to reinforce their desires.
When faced with challenges, you need reasons why you should not give up on your objective, and it’s only your desire(s) that can give you the guts to confront and surmount the challenges. Personally, it’s too late for me to give up on my dreams in life; I’ve crossed the Rubicon. My strong desire to succeed fuels my ambition; it keeps me going even in the face of discouragements and challenges. And I have resolved that “so long as there’s a breath in me, that long I will persist till I join the caucus of successful people”. Even when my strength fails me, as it sometimes does, my strong desire won’t let me relinquish my dream still. Desire is everything; it’s omnipotent. Thus, I encourage you to reinforce your desire for success.
What is your goal and what is the challenge debarring it? Is it to proffer solution to a seemingly impossible task? Is it to save for an expensive, long-term project? Is it to attain a lofty height? Is it to attain financial independence? Is it to reach the zenith of your career? Is it to build a happy home? Or is it to sustain your marriage? Whatever it is, reinforce your desire to achieve the objective, and you’ll be amazed that from somewhere the wherewithal to pull through will be bestowed on you. You bet.
Keep dreaming. Keep desiring. Keep pursuing. Keep achieving.
Friday, 12 September 2008
SOAR, EAGLE, SOAR.
While thinking of a topic to write on during the week, I remembered the theme of the just concluded youth convention of my church and that settled it. Although I couldn’t attend the convention, the theme “Soar, eagle, soar.” alone inspired me. Come with me as I decipher the theme...
The theme comprises of two words namely “eagle” and “soar”. The eagle is one of the largest and most powerful birds in the world. A magnificent creature, an eagle is characterized with speed, strength, power, majesty, boldness, dependability, courage, great vision, singleness of purpose, tenderness, faithfulness, ferocity, and great daring. This amazing bird lives in high altitudes. Practically, eagles soar (to “soar”, according to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, means to rise quickly and smoothly up into the air, OR to fly very high in the air or remain high in the air.) higher than any other bird because they understand the ways of the thermal currents and they use it to their advantage (It doesn’t waste energy unnecessarily, but moves with speed at the most appropriate time; that way it can maintain flight for lengthy periods without undue exertion.). Eagles also have the ability to use the force of the storm to their advantage. And probably the most impressive quality of the eagle is the bird’s remarkable ability to renew its youth. (To read more about eagles, I recommend Bill Newman’s book titled “Soaring with Eagles”).Thus, the eagle is an important symbol for leaders and achievers everywhere.
We human beings can be likened to eagles. Like eagles, we have wondrous capabilities that we can harness to get to the summit. But alas, many men are crawling when they have the capacity to soar. Thus, the theme “Soar, eagle, soar.” is a clarion call urging crawling eagles to utilize their prowess. And the message is clear:
1. Never give up on your dreams, never settle for less.
2. Never give in to adversity, instead harness it to your advantage.
3. Never work hard, work smart.
Sometimes, the hustling and bustling of our world overwhelm us to the extent that we forget who we really are. You are an eagle by making; don’t let your present situation cloud your reasoning. You will agree with me that no reputable manufacturer will release a defective product in its name to the market. Likewise, your Maker wouldn’t have released you into the world if you had not been implanted with all that you need to thrive (Existence will even be a mere mockery if incomplete and incompetent beings were actually created and thrown into the world to survive in a harsh environment.). The fact that you made it outside the womb is an indication that your making was a success. The fact that you’re not maximizing your potentials doesn’t negate the fact that you’ve been implanted with diverse talents. The fact that you’re not using your wings doesn’t negate the fact that the wings are there. I don’t know your height, weight, sex, race, family background, financial situation nor your geographical location but I’m persuaded that you are an amazing being. You are whole and complete – a masterpiece. In actual fact, you are a god. Your abilities are untold. You don’t have limitations except the ones you place on yourself. You can turn around any situation you find yourself. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to do.
We’re often tempted to think that we’ll do better if we have better/more talents. I contest the notion. You don’t need all the gifts in the world to make a difference, all that you need is all that you have. Use them to the fullest, be the best you can be with them. You might not be able to play basketball like Michael Jordan nor sing like Celine Dion but you sure can function in the capacity into which you’ve been called with your peculiar gift(s). So the challenge is discovering your gift(s) and your purpose. Once you discover your gift(s) and purpose, work on them tenaciously and before you know it, you’ll be caught up in the air and you’ll soar effortlessly to heights only eagles attain. I know of a minister in person of Bishop David Oyedepo who acquired a private jet many years ago without much ado. He just acquired a second private jet recently and he’s still waxing stronger financially. Yet, he’s not a bank executive neither is he a politician that usurped public funds, he’s just a minister (That’s what happens when you use your gift(s) to pursue your ordained purpose - you’ll soar effortlessly.). No doubt, Bishop David Oyedepo is an eagle and it’s apparent that he’s using his wings. You don’t have an excuse too, your wings are there for you to use. So discover your innate gifts, hone them, and use them to the full.
Isn’t it funny that we have beggars on the streets of New York? Thus, it is evident that location doesn’t confer wealth nor freedom, every individual decides his/her fate. This is a reawakening call for all and sundry. Don’t waste/underutilize your talents. The world is not benefiting from your crawling, rise! You are an eagle, so act like one.
Be reminded that, like every steward, you’ll give account of the usage of your gift(s) to your Maker someday. Thus, it is pertinent that you make the best use of them while you’re still breathing. Redefine your dreams, it’s time to move up to a higher ground. It’s time to maximize your potentials so that you can live a better, nobler and more harmonious life.
You can do it, it’s in you. Summon your powers, summon your intellect, it’s time to soar! Spread your awesome wings, leap into the air, effortlessly but powerfully flap your wings and then simply soar to the higher realm where you rightfully belong.
Soar, eagle, soar!
The theme comprises of two words namely “eagle” and “soar”. The eagle is one of the largest and most powerful birds in the world. A magnificent creature, an eagle is characterized with speed, strength, power, majesty, boldness, dependability, courage, great vision, singleness of purpose, tenderness, faithfulness, ferocity, and great daring. This amazing bird lives in high altitudes. Practically, eagles soar (to “soar”, according to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, means to rise quickly and smoothly up into the air, OR to fly very high in the air or remain high in the air.) higher than any other bird because they understand the ways of the thermal currents and they use it to their advantage (It doesn’t waste energy unnecessarily, but moves with speed at the most appropriate time; that way it can maintain flight for lengthy periods without undue exertion.). Eagles also have the ability to use the force of the storm to their advantage. And probably the most impressive quality of the eagle is the bird’s remarkable ability to renew its youth. (To read more about eagles, I recommend Bill Newman’s book titled “Soaring with Eagles”).Thus, the eagle is an important symbol for leaders and achievers everywhere.
We human beings can be likened to eagles. Like eagles, we have wondrous capabilities that we can harness to get to the summit. But alas, many men are crawling when they have the capacity to soar. Thus, the theme “Soar, eagle, soar.” is a clarion call urging crawling eagles to utilize their prowess. And the message is clear:
1. Never give up on your dreams, never settle for less.
2. Never give in to adversity, instead harness it to your advantage.
3. Never work hard, work smart.
Sometimes, the hustling and bustling of our world overwhelm us to the extent that we forget who we really are. You are an eagle by making; don’t let your present situation cloud your reasoning. You will agree with me that no reputable manufacturer will release a defective product in its name to the market. Likewise, your Maker wouldn’t have released you into the world if you had not been implanted with all that you need to thrive (Existence will even be a mere mockery if incomplete and incompetent beings were actually created and thrown into the world to survive in a harsh environment.). The fact that you made it outside the womb is an indication that your making was a success. The fact that you’re not maximizing your potentials doesn’t negate the fact that you’ve been implanted with diverse talents. The fact that you’re not using your wings doesn’t negate the fact that the wings are there. I don’t know your height, weight, sex, race, family background, financial situation nor your geographical location but I’m persuaded that you are an amazing being. You are whole and complete – a masterpiece. In actual fact, you are a god. Your abilities are untold. You don’t have limitations except the ones you place on yourself. You can turn around any situation you find yourself. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to do.
We’re often tempted to think that we’ll do better if we have better/more talents. I contest the notion. You don’t need all the gifts in the world to make a difference, all that you need is all that you have. Use them to the fullest, be the best you can be with them. You might not be able to play basketball like Michael Jordan nor sing like Celine Dion but you sure can function in the capacity into which you’ve been called with your peculiar gift(s). So the challenge is discovering your gift(s) and your purpose. Once you discover your gift(s) and purpose, work on them tenaciously and before you know it, you’ll be caught up in the air and you’ll soar effortlessly to heights only eagles attain. I know of a minister in person of Bishop David Oyedepo who acquired a private jet many years ago without much ado. He just acquired a second private jet recently and he’s still waxing stronger financially. Yet, he’s not a bank executive neither is he a politician that usurped public funds, he’s just a minister (That’s what happens when you use your gift(s) to pursue your ordained purpose - you’ll soar effortlessly.). No doubt, Bishop David Oyedepo is an eagle and it’s apparent that he’s using his wings. You don’t have an excuse too, your wings are there for you to use. So discover your innate gifts, hone them, and use them to the full.
Isn’t it funny that we have beggars on the streets of New York? Thus, it is evident that location doesn’t confer wealth nor freedom, every individual decides his/her fate. This is a reawakening call for all and sundry. Don’t waste/underutilize your talents. The world is not benefiting from your crawling, rise! You are an eagle, so act like one.
Be reminded that, like every steward, you’ll give account of the usage of your gift(s) to your Maker someday. Thus, it is pertinent that you make the best use of them while you’re still breathing. Redefine your dreams, it’s time to move up to a higher ground. It’s time to maximize your potentials so that you can live a better, nobler and more harmonious life.
You can do it, it’s in you. Summon your powers, summon your intellect, it’s time to soar! Spread your awesome wings, leap into the air, effortlessly but powerfully flap your wings and then simply soar to the higher realm where you rightfully belong.
Soar, eagle, soar!
Friday, 29 August 2008
MOVING SLOWLY IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION IS BETTER THAN SPEEDING IN THE WRONG DIRECTION.
Some people you envy today might end up being spectators tomorrow, while some that appear slow today might end up attaining and retaining lofty heights. Call it an ambiguous statement, but see what I mean…
Clearly, direction is more important than speed. If you’re heading towards the wrong direction, you might end up getting “somewhere” though, but certainly not where you ought to be if you had followed the right direction; the probability of reaching your desired destination would be slim. But if you’re heading towards the right direction, even if your pace is slow, you have a higher probability of reaching your desired destination. Thus, it is evident that life is a race and that there are different kinds of races in life. And these different kinds of races inevitably lead to different destinations. As such, before racing aimlessly in life, it is pertinent that you identify the right race to be run. It is equally important that you adhere to the track. And finishing the race is mandatory if you must receive the ultimate prize; there’s no shortcut to long-lasting success.
This behooves us to critically assess our lives. Pause. Have you been able to identify the reason for your existence (Why are you breathing? What is your purpose in the land of the living?)? What are your plans to accomplish your purpose? Is the race you’re running in line with your plan(s)? Will it lead to fulfillment and sustainable success eventually? All these demand reckoning. If you’re not on the right track, endeavor to retrace your steps. If you’re on the right track however, keep moving.
When running your race, ensure you don’t entertain distractions nor envy others. Be reminded that you are not in it with anybody; as your purpose and chosen track differs, so does your arrival time. As the Yorubas will say, “ma gun esin elesin sare” (which literally means “don’t ride another person’s horse to run”). You will eventually get to your desired destination, just stick to your race and track. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not going at the desired pace, the most important thing is that you’re on the right track; getting to the destination slow and steady via the right track is more important than speeding towards the wrong direction, so keep moving.
It is my wish that the rest of your life will be the best of your life. But I can only admonish, it’s left for you to run the race set before you (your direction, preparations, zeal, and the tenacity with which you run the race will determine the prize you’ll receive at the end) to victory or to defeat. Walk the talk, it’s all about you.
Peace and love.
Friday, 22 August 2008
FOR PROVIDENCE TO MOVE IN YOUR FAVOUR, YOU MUST COMMIT YOURSELF.
You can never realize the vast opportunities and provisions available to help you further your cause until you commit yourself. Once you commit yourself, things will begin to take shape. I’m not just bluffing, I have some personal conquest experiences to back up my theory. Come with me as I prove my point…
During my NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) year, I was posted to a remote village in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria for my primary assignment and I took it without fear knowing fully well that I was going to survive wherever I was posted and it turned out that I not only survived, I thrived. Weeks after my arrival, after careful appraisals (I looked for the need of my fellow corps members as well as the community and I decided to fill the need), I invested the little savings I had into digital photography to survive. Although I didn’t hit it big in Imo State, but one thing that remains significant is the fact that I never lacked bread throughout my service year. The digital photography business took me round Imo State and I was privileged to meet the crème de la crème, one of whom is the erstwhile Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barr. Noel Agwuocha Chukwukadibia. I later got close to his family and the wife was so impressed with what I was doing that she gave me a fully furnished shop (with furniture, air conditioner, carpet, to name a few) inside Imo State University, Owerri which I used free of charge as my studio for seven (7) solid months before I left Imo State. Call it a miracle, but the truth is that I couldn’t have met the woman if I had not diverted into digital photography and she wouldn’t have released the shop to me for free if she had not seen any commitment on my part.
The same feat repeated itself in Abuja, Nigeria. When I finished my NYSC, I worked briefly for a month in Ibadan before taking off to Abuja in search of greener pastures. Initially when I got to Abuja, I was doing “my thing” in an open park - Millennium Park (believe me I had to swallow my pride). Just two weeks after my arrival in Abuja, I met an artist extraordinaire in the park who offered to share her gallery with me free of charge. As if that was not enough, barely three months after my arrival in Abuja, I got a fully furnished office space (with furniture, air conditioner, carpet, to name a few) in Lagos House ,77, Ralph Sodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja for free too! I used this facility for months as my studio before I took a detour out of Abuja (for “doubting Thomases”, contact me for details and I’ll be glad to give you more information). Call it another miracle, but the truth remains that I couldn’t have met the “good Samaritan” that gave me the office space for free if I had not left Ibadan for Abuja and she wouldn’t have given me the office space if she had not seen any commitment on my part.
Do you need any other evidence before you believe in the power of commitment? Verily I say unto you, there are miracles in the offing waiting for your commitment. There are free offices waiting to be occupied. There are free grants waiting to be claimed. There are sponsors looking for whom to help. There are loans waiting to be taken. There are investors looking for where to invest. There are bachelors searching for committed spinsters. There are employers looking for committed employees to enthrone. There are publishers looking for good materials to publish and market. There are banks looking for good proposals to fund. There are music producers looking for talented and committed artists to promote. The list is endless. All you need to do is to commit yourself to your goal, and then providence will take it from there.
I’m not alone on this theory, a thinker in person of William Murray said something similar. Hear him: “The moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issue from the decision raising in one’s favour all manner of unforeseen incidents, and meetings, and material assistances which no man could have dreamed would come his way.” His words are omnipotent and it can work for you if you plug-in to its eternal precept.
Stop waiting for a miracle, initiate the miracle by committing yourself to your objective. Move providence! Succeed!
During my NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) year, I was posted to a remote village in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria for my primary assignment and I took it without fear knowing fully well that I was going to survive wherever I was posted and it turned out that I not only survived, I thrived. Weeks after my arrival, after careful appraisals (I looked for the need of my fellow corps members as well as the community and I decided to fill the need), I invested the little savings I had into digital photography to survive. Although I didn’t hit it big in Imo State, but one thing that remains significant is the fact that I never lacked bread throughout my service year. The digital photography business took me round Imo State and I was privileged to meet the crème de la crème, one of whom is the erstwhile Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barr. Noel Agwuocha Chukwukadibia. I later got close to his family and the wife was so impressed with what I was doing that she gave me a fully furnished shop (with furniture, air conditioner, carpet, to name a few) inside Imo State University, Owerri which I used free of charge as my studio for seven (7) solid months before I left Imo State. Call it a miracle, but the truth is that I couldn’t have met the woman if I had not diverted into digital photography and she wouldn’t have released the shop to me for free if she had not seen any commitment on my part.
The same feat repeated itself in Abuja, Nigeria. When I finished my NYSC, I worked briefly for a month in Ibadan before taking off to Abuja in search of greener pastures. Initially when I got to Abuja, I was doing “my thing” in an open park - Millennium Park (believe me I had to swallow my pride). Just two weeks after my arrival in Abuja, I met an artist extraordinaire in the park who offered to share her gallery with me free of charge. As if that was not enough, barely three months after my arrival in Abuja, I got a fully furnished office space (with furniture, air conditioner, carpet, to name a few) in Lagos House ,77, Ralph Sodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja for free too! I used this facility for months as my studio before I took a detour out of Abuja (for “doubting Thomases”, contact me for details and I’ll be glad to give you more information). Call it another miracle, but the truth remains that I couldn’t have met the “good Samaritan” that gave me the office space for free if I had not left Ibadan for Abuja and she wouldn’t have given me the office space if she had not seen any commitment on my part.
Do you need any other evidence before you believe in the power of commitment? Verily I say unto you, there are miracles in the offing waiting for your commitment. There are free offices waiting to be occupied. There are free grants waiting to be claimed. There are sponsors looking for whom to help. There are loans waiting to be taken. There are investors looking for where to invest. There are bachelors searching for committed spinsters. There are employers looking for committed employees to enthrone. There are publishers looking for good materials to publish and market. There are banks looking for good proposals to fund. There are music producers looking for talented and committed artists to promote. The list is endless. All you need to do is to commit yourself to your goal, and then providence will take it from there.
I’m not alone on this theory, a thinker in person of William Murray said something similar. Hear him: “The moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issue from the decision raising in one’s favour all manner of unforeseen incidents, and meetings, and material assistances which no man could have dreamed would come his way.” His words are omnipotent and it can work for you if you plug-in to its eternal precept.
Stop waiting for a miracle, initiate the miracle by committing yourself to your objective. Move providence! Succeed!
Friday, 15 August 2008
I DARE YOU – A prose by Ibukunolu Ishola
You are nothing but a product of mistake.
You are an afterthought.
Your existence is meaningless.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You are an insignificant cog in some terrifying machine.
You have nothing good to offer your generation.
You are useless; a waste of resources.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You are limited by making.
You remain limited.
You can never rise above your limitations.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You are failure personified.
You can never ever succeed in life.
Your fate is sealed.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You will die unfulfilled.
You will die uncelebrated.
Your memory will fade completely after death.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
I DARE YOU!
You are an afterthought.
Your existence is meaningless.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You are an insignificant cog in some terrifying machine.
You have nothing good to offer your generation.
You are useless; a waste of resources.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You are limited by making.
You remain limited.
You can never rise above your limitations.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You are failure personified.
You can never ever succeed in life.
Your fate is sealed.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
You will die unfulfilled.
You will die uncelebrated.
Your memory will fade completely after death.
I DARE YOU to prove me wrong.
I DARE YOU!
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