You're a student of a Federal University in Nigeria.
Nigeria is going through a heat pandemic because why is the weather this hot?
But you're not that bothered because you know one day, you will not be under the sun for long, you will not know the country is that hot, and you will read the news on your big flat tv screen.
Now, it is Tuesday. Your mind is a whirlwind of to-do lists, deadlines, and classes to attend. What did you use your Monday to do? Can't give much account.
You darted across the crowded walkway to your class venue. If you're a minute late, you will forfeit your entry into that class. You have stricts and not so god-fearing lecturers. You're also holding arranged papers that needs to be submitted as soon as possible.
But all of a sudden, gust of wind sent the carefully arranged papers scattering in all directions.
Groaning in frustration and cursing the poor innocent wind under your breath, you dropped to your knees, frantically trying to gather the runaway documents. Ugh!!! You internally screamed because you didn't want people to know you were frustrated.
Just as you were about to give up hope, a gentle voice interrupted your frantic arrangement.
"Looks like you could use a hand," said a kind-faced stranger, bending down to help.
Grateful for the assistance, you thanked the stranger and together you both managed to retrieve the wayward papers. As the papers were dusted off, the stranger offered you a warm smile.
“You have a nice smile.” But you didn't dare say it out. Scared you will embarrass yourself and Him.
Then you decided to walk with him until you get to your lecture…
“Ah!!! Lecture started 15 minutes ago, that's the end, you won't be allowed in again.”
At least, you can submit your papers and go home. You thought
But You almost cried, you held yourself back. The class is not a class to be missed. However, you didn't know he saw the tears in your eyes.
Still lost in your bubbles and thinking of how to beg for someone's note and write since you won't be allowed in, He tapped you
And then he said,
“You know, sometimes our minds can be like those papers - fluttering off in a million different directions, worrying about something we’ve not tested and tried…
But if we take a moment to pause and breathe, we might just find that everything falls back into place and see beyond the issues.”
And Like a switch, you relaxed and you couldn't help but chuckle at the stranger's words.
How true it is, you thought, that your mind often feels like a whirlwind of chaos, pulling you in every direction and making you feel overwhelmed
But hearing the stranger say that, made you see that you needed to work on your mind everyday.
And you decided to see if the lecturer will send you out or not, you decided to enjoy the day even without a barrier and also get your papers signed.
However, the lesson never left you
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of life in a Nigerian University, you should take a moment to close your eyes, breathe deeply, and remind yourself that the most important journey is the one within.
And the best thing to do is to ask yourself “What can I do to take away this issue or problem that is making itself big?” What is beyond this problem and how can I get the solution?
My friend, life will be unpredictable and chaotic at times,
But the power to find peace and clarity lies within the confines of your inner man. It lies in your hands but it is connected to your mind.
Enjoy the day with the Holy