While I was returning from CDS (Community Development Service), a fellow corper was emotional. Her eyes had welled up with tears, and I initially thought it was because of the kids we visited at the orphanage. I was emotional in there too, but that's not her reason. She was having mixed feelings about her journey up till that day. I could only comfort her since I didn't know what was happening but later at the lodge, she opened up to me.
She said, and I quote, "My life has been a miracle, and until today, I didn't believe that dreams come through because I am the least person who should be here now. Nobody believed in me, not even my family but here I am with less than a month to complete my NYSC."
She told me so many things about her journey and while I got some inspiration from her story, I was drawn into a reflective state. I look back and it seems many of us are going through the same thing in life, but how we handle our situation is different. This particular lady goes about smiling and is happy. She is always positive and encouraging us, but deep inside, she's been through so many things. Her journey reminded me of my dad's saying that good things don't come easily in life, and we have to work very hard for success.
My Image
I have had my own share of struggles, and her story resonated with me. I remember a particular time when I thought of quitting due to family challenges, I inquired about pausing my education for probably a year just to be of help at home. I didn't share my thoughts with anyone so that I won't be persuaded not to do what's in my mind but after thinking about it thoroughly, I decided to keep pushing through because I could end up making the biggest mistake of my life.
The journey wasn't pretty for so many people and sadly, some had to quit. Some lost their lives; they would have traded anything in the world to see their dreams come true, but unfortunately, the journey was cut short. All of these felt like yesterday, but it's been three years now, and a lot more has happened in the course of trying to be where I am today.
Reflecting on my journey and hers, it's clear that perseverance is key. It's not my power because without God, none of these dreams would have become a reality. The whole being a graduate and serving the country might not be a lot to some people but to us, it means more due to the sacrifices we made just to bring that dream to reality. I know there are still challenges ahead but with determination and perseverance, we will scale through.
My image
The point of this post is that dreams come through, because it didn't work for some people doesn't mean it won't work for everyone. We just have to truly put in our best because it's the only shortcut to success, and when it comes, don't let anyone make you feel like your achievement is nothing. Be grateful and celebrate as much as you can. You need every inspiration from this success to win again with what's ahead.