I had a cousin named Sade, although she was like a sister to me. Her mother tragically lost her life during childbirth, bleeding to death as all efforts to save her by the medical practitioner proved futile. Since that fateful day, my mother took in Sade, treating her as her very own.
Sade attended the same school as my siblings and me. Starting from the moment she came into our lives, I felt a strong sense of responsibility towards her. She wasn't just a distant relation, but she was my sister in every sense. I indulged her in everything I did, from helping her with her studies to participating in various activities.
One day, on our way to school, we talked about our dreams, vision, and choice of career. I wanted to be the guiding force in her life, the kind of big siter who offered direction, guidance, and encouragement. I believed in her potential and was determined to see her succeed beyond her wildest dreams. However, our interest didn’t align in ambitions. Sade was deeply passionate about mass communication and dreamed of becoming a journalist. I, on the other hand, had a different path in mind for her.
One day, as we trekked home from school, I decided to broach the subject. "Sade, I have been thinking. You're incredibly smart and capable. I believe you could be an amazing doctor one day."
Sade furrowed her brow, her eyes reflecting her uncertainty. "But sister Mary, I've always wanted to be a journalist. I want to tell stories, to give a voice to those who don't have one."
I persisted, my voice earnest. "I know, Sade, but being a doctor is such a noble profession. It can earn you fortune. You could save lives and make a real difference in the world."
Reluctantly, Sade agreed to follow my counsel. She chose the science department in secondary school, even though her heart remained set on journalism. My persuasive arguments had swayed her, and she had
no option but to trust my judgment.
Years passed, and Sade excelled in her studies. She was brilliant, earning perfect grades that made our family proud. Her dream of becoming a doctor was drawing closer, but little did i know that the fire of journalism still burned within her.
When the time came for university, Sade dutifully pursued medicine, just as I had advised. She entered her first year with determination and enthusiasm, but the path ahead was far from smooth. In her second year, as they ventured into the practical aspects of the course, Sade found herself struggling to keep up. She felt lost and overwhelmed, and her passion for medicine began to wane.
Despite her best efforts, the coursework proved too challenging, and her grades began to slip. Her professors noticed her struggles and advised her to consider other departments where she might excel. The dream I had envisioned for her began to crumble, and Sade faced a painful decision.
She made the difficult choice to withdraw from the medical program and pursue a different path. She crossed to the social sciences department, where she eventually graduated as a psychologist. It was a bittersweet moment, as she had to let go of the dream I had imposed on her.
Every time Sade called me, I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt and regret. I realized that I had made a grave mistake by holding her dreams hostage and influencing her choices. I had pushed her onto a path she wasn't meant to follow, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I had cut her dreams short.
One evening, as I sat alone in my room, my phone rang. It was Sade calling, and I answered with a heavy heart. "Hello, Sade."
Sade's voice was warm but blended with sadness. "Sister Mary, I have been thinking a lot lately. I miss journalism, you know? I miss telling stories, making a difference with my words."
My heart sank as I listened to her. "Sade, I'm so sorry. I realize now that I made a mistake by pushing you into medicine. I should have supported your dream of becoming a journalist."
There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line before Sade spoke again. "Sister, it's not your fault. I made the choice, too. But it's never too late to chase our dreams."
I felt a surge of hope. "You're right, Sade. It's never too late. Let's both pursue our dreams, no matter where they lead us."
With this, Sade pursued a diploma in journalism, and to my amazement, she excelled. She rediscovery herself, and i gave all the support i could. Reflecting on the past, i always resolved that i had wasted her time.