Kikelomo OlagokeKikelomo Olagoke

Olagoke Kikelomo is a lover of God and a skilled writer who maneuvers her way into her readers' world. Real-life situations are mostly her source of artistic inspiration. Her primary goal is to utilize her literary works to facilitate personal growth and encourage people to become the best versions of themselves. In her quest to contribute to the world, she envisions her writing transcending borders and impacting lives on a global scale. Also, she values the importance of quality education as an educator herself.

The Art of Building Vocabulary for Writers

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The Art of Building Vocabulary for Writers

Enhancing your writing skills as a writer significantly hinges on improving your vocabulary. This is because words serve as your sole means to convey emotions. The more extensive your word bank, the better your ability to effectively string together thoughts into a message that delivers the intended impact.  A broad vocabulary allows for clear and precise expression, adds depth to writing, diversifies language use, facilitates selecting the most suitable words, assists in expressing ideas concisely, and prevents confusion or complexity for the reader. One can only write using words one knows; hence, as a writer, it is expedient that you are intentional in building your vocabulary acumen. I have heard people lament in frustration about how they always have a lot to say, but conveying effortlessly always poses a problem. So, they end up not meeting the expectations of the readers in demonstrating mastery of terminology. Now, note that having an extensive vocabulary does not mean using complicated or uncommon words to appear more intelligent. Its essence is not in the complexity of words but in the ability to use the right words effectively and appropriately to convey ideas clearly and precisely.  What is Vocabulary? Vocabulary is a collection of acquainted words or phrases of a person’s language. It is the phrase acknowledged and used by an individual. In the English Language, it is not only integral for reading comprehension, but it is also a necessary tool for verbal and written communication.  Guidelines to develop and expand your vocabulary: Cultivate a Reading Culture: Incorporate reading into your daily life, no matter how short. As you read, take note of new words and write them down. Afterward, look them up in the dictionary. Learn new words in context. Learning new phrases contextually will make it less complicated to consider later. Don’t be satisfied understanding the meaning alone; however, practice the usage of them in sentences and your daily conversation. Learn new words daily: To expand your vocabulary and improve your communication ability, analyze a new word every day. Master the spelling, pronunciation, synonyms, and antonyms. Memorization plays its part. However, it doesn’t guarantee the terrific use of it. It is expedient to put each new vocabulary to use. To achieve recollection, make sure you use the word, or else, you will lose it. Practice them as you converse with people. You can begin by mastering a word daily, as you make progress, you can expand it. Play word games: In this century, technology has made knowledge less complicated, flexible, and fun. In a digitally advanced world, there are now several exclusive vocabulary-building exercises, games, applications, and quizzes designed to achieve admirable vocabulary capabilities. Adopt word games of your preference and be steady with them. Suggested examples are crossword, phrase scrambles, scrabble, and vocabulary pyramid among others. Learn from others: Another way to build your vocabulary is by practicing active listening. Listening to other people talk exposes you to new words and their usage. Use helpful English tools: Dictionaries and thesauruses remain effective examples of tools that help in understanding unfamiliar words. As a hoe is to a farmer, so is a dictionary to an English language learner. Conclusively, the power of consistency cannot be overemphasized. Consistent practice in building your vocabulary is the key to lasting success and growth. Do not cease after a while; stay focused and dedicated to the adopted activities.  

Philophobia: The Fear of Love

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Philophobia The Fear of Love

The once vibrant colors of love in Nancy’s life had faded to a monochrome of despair. Each attempt at affection felt like a cruel lesson from fate, reaffirming her unworthiness of love’s embrace. The wounds inflicted by Stan’s departure had yet to heal, an abrupt storm leaving her heart battered and her soul drenched in sorrow. Rick’s fleeting presence had been a glimmer of hope, a fragile ray of sunshine in her cloudy existence, only to be snuffed out by the inevitable hands of death, leaving her grasping at echoes of what could have been. Her childhood, marred by the absence of nurturing affection, had seeded the roots of her phobia. Abandoned by those meant to provide solace, she had grown to harbor a myriad of fears, weaving a web of insecurities that ensnared her heart. Abandonment, rejection, entrapment – the ghosts of her past traumas haunted her steps, casting a shadow over any relationship.  The distorted lens through which she viewed relationships was a prism of her pain. She believed love was a shackle, a hindrance like her mother’s concealed dreams. Her mother’s unloving words, echoing that she was a mistake, reinforced this belief. Any glimmer of affection was met with resistance, her subconscious was determined to protect her from the perceived inevitability of heartache. Yet, amidst her fortifications, there lingered a faint whisper that perhaps she was wrong, that she deserved love and happiness.  Philophobia, the fear of love, was a relentless adversary, entwined with layers of paranoia, depression, and self-worth issues. The journey to overcoming this consuming fear was arduous. To challenge Philophobia meant dismantling the barricades of unhelpful thoughts. It required replacing the echoes of doubt with the symphony of self-compassion. Understanding that fears often masquerade as truths was crucial; the realization that her parents’ loveless union didn’t dictate her path. Gradually, she embraced the notion that everyone deserves love, including herself. Therapy became a sanctuary where she confronted the haunting memories and reshaped her narrative. Through this, she discovered the beauty of openness, the strength in allowing oneself to feel and connect. The journey was not swift nor without setbacks. But in each step forward, she reclaimed a piece of herself. Love, once feared, became a beacon of hope, a possibility rather than a fiction. She learned that overcoming Philophobia meant rewriting her story, one page at a time, embracing the colorful tapestry of emotions that love brings, knowing that in vulnerability, there’s profound strength. Philophobia isn’t unique to her story; it’s a struggle that many people face. Past traumas, painful breakups, or a lack of positive role models in relationships can contribute to this fear. The resulting isolation, feelings of unworthiness, and an aversion to emotional intimacy become a barrier to experiencing and maintaining love and connection Like Nancy, overcoming Philophobia is a challenging but possible journey. Challenging negative thoughts and understanding that past experiences don’t necessarily define future relationships is crucial. Seeking therapy or counseling can help unravel deep-rooted fears and traumas, providing tools to reframe thoughts and build healthier relationship patterns.  Learning to be kind to oneself is another essential step. Recognizing that everyone deserves love, including oneself, is a fundamental shift in mindset.  Overcoming Philophobia isn’t just about finding love; it’s about reclaiming the ability to connect, heal, and grow. Most importantly, consider seeking solace in a relationship with God, the source of perfect love that conquers all fear. Embracing this relationship has the power to dissolve the deepest fears within you, including any phobia towards love. Despite life’s challenges, experiencing the love of God dispels the shadows of fear and the enablement to enjoy love in the purest form.

How to Set Achievable Goals

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How to Set Achievable Goals

Kelvin let out another prolonged, audible sigh. He flipped through his notebook as if searching for something. As with every year’s end, he found his goals and resolutions staring back at him, unmet and unfulfilled. This annual reckoning wasn’t just a glance at a list; it was a journey through the past year, revisiting the moments he envisioned success and acknowledging the instances where he fell short. Each unchecked box carried the weight of a missed opportunity, a promise unkept. For Kelvin, this pattern was familiar—a cycle of fervent beginnings fading into the abyss of unmet expectations. However, this year felt different. Instead of resigning to the disappointment, Kelvin paused. His mind teemed with strategies and advice he’d come across, scattered thoughts on setting achievable goals and transforming aspirations into reality. I think it is right to assume that we are in that month where yearly goals are revisited. This juncture often prompts reflection for many—a time to assess accomplishments, concede to the year’s end, or rush through pending aspirations. It’s a recurring cycle where the fervor and optimism of January gradually fade into unmet expectations and disillusionment. Sometimes, the inability to transform aspirations into reality isn’t due to external factors like” village people” or lack of passion; it’s a complex interplay of various reasons. These reasons vary and depend on individuals. Goals are specific targets or objectives you aim to achieve. Goals can be short-term or long-term in nature Amongst other tips, consider these strategies to attain your goals: Begin by vividly documenting your aspirations; write them down in a tangible form, be it a notebook or a digital notes app. Break down overarching goals into smaller, achievable milestones, perhaps on a weekly or monthly basis. Merely jotting down aspirations won’t suffice; outline actionable steps. This is where many make mistakes, they stop at writing and hope things turn out along the line. Consider the “what,” “how,” “when,” and “where.” All goals require meticulous plans. Establish deadlines to infuse urgency and accountability into the process. Evaluation and assessment periodically. This gives room for modification where necessary. Foster a support system. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire, motivate, and hold you accountable. Engage with communities, mentors, or friends who can offer guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback as you pursue your goals. Now, let’s take this instance as a case study; if you aim to become a tech professional by this time next year without an iota of where to start. You have to research and identify the tech skill that interests you. Determine whether the learning approaches are virtual, physical, or a mix. Identify suitable learning resources. Consider financial readiness. Explore the available free courses. Seek guidance from industry experts or mentors. You can start by following them on social media. For those navigating a 9–5 job, plan how to incorporate the skill acquisition into spare moments. These will birth more questions and give you more insight, thereby guiding you to draft actionable plans to actualize your goals. Please note that the journey toward goal attainment is dynamic. Adjustments might be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances or challenges. Flexibility and adaptability are key, so modifying strategies is acceptable. Don’t confine your dreams to the pages of a notebook—act upon them, for therein lies their transformation into reality. ALSO READ: Effective Goal-Setting Techniques for Achieving Your Goals Now is the time to reignite that spark of determination. Instead of feeling disheartened by unmet goals, let’s use this moment to strategize and create a roadmap towards achievable success. Take a pen, open that digital notepad, whatever works for you and let’s dive into turning aspirations into concrete, achievable milestones. I believe in you. I’m rooting for you.

Understanding the Signs of Toxic relationships: A Tale of Endurance

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Understanding the Signs of Toxic relationships A Tale of Endurance (2)

People in toxic relationships don’t admit it until it is almost too late or too late. This is the case of Abimbola who despite all the red flags, justified her actions until an occurrence opened her eyes to the reality she pretended didn’t exist.  Abimbola’s heart raced as she stood there, facing the tumultuous storm of emotions that had become an all too familiar part of her life. The arrival of the package, seemingly innocent, had unveiled a sequence of events that shattered the fragile facade of normalcy she had clung to. Fame’s unexpected outburst and assault left Abimbola stunned. Why would he slap her over a piece of meat? She tried to make sense of the situation, tracing back their history, recalling moments tainted by anger and violence that she had learned to dismiss or justify. But this time was different. This time, a wave of realization washed over her, bringing forth a newfound sense of clarity. The weight of her relationship’s toxicity hit her with an unrelenting force. For years, she had endured, believing she could change him, believing that the love she invested would eventually mold him into someone different. But the cruelty of reality now stood starkly before her. As her resolve strengthened, she made a split-second decision – it was time to break free from the chains of her own making. She could no longer bear the emotional and physical toll, nor could she ignore the stark reality that her relationship was far from the love and care she deserved. Her desperation for escape fueled a fierce internal battle. She had to leave. But Fame, propelled by his rage and sense of control, tightened his grip on her wrist, a physical manifestation of the chains that bound her. His threats echoed in the air, slicing through the already tense atmosphere. Tears, a mix of fear, anger, and desperation, streamed down her face as she pleaded for release. It was a moment suspended in time—a moment that encapsulated the culmination of years of suffering. The room felt suffocating, the air thick with tension, the knife on the table, a chilling symbol of the impending catastrophe. The scene erupted into chaos as the struggle intensified. In that frantic moment, a cry pierced through the turmoil, followed by a sickening thud. The door crashed open, yet Abimbola’s chance for escape slipped through her fingers like sand. The neighbors rushed in, only to find the grim reality before them – Fame’s lifeless body lay motionless, a cruel casualty of the toxic relationship they had witnessed from afar. Abimbola, soaked in blood, hovered beside him, a prisoner of the circumstances she had tried so desperately to escape. As the police arrived and the chaos settled, the truth of the tragedy unfolded. Abimbola found herself sitting amidst the wreckage, haunted by the stark realization that her attempt at liberation had led to an irreversible and devastating outcome. In the aftermath of Abimbola’s ordeal, this narrative emerges as a strong beacon, shining light on the dangers inherent in toxic relationships. Through Abimbola’s rough journey, the insidious decay caused by enduring abuse within these toxic relationships becomes painfully, glaringly evident. This raw portrayal vehemently emphasizes the dire and urgent necessity of recognizing, acknowledging, and extricating oneself from the pervasive toxicity inherent in such relationships. The story’s unfiltered depiction of the relentless toll exacted by these toxic relationships echoes an insistent plea: discern the subtle warning signs, confront the pervasive toxicity, and champion one’s mental and emotional well-being above all else. Abimbola’s heartbreaking saga serves as a real testament to the irreparable damage inflicted by these toxic relationships, leaving indelible scars upon the mind. In the aftermath of her tumultuous journey, the unwavering clarion call remains resolute: liberation from the clutches of toxic relationships stands pivotal for self-preservation, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to growth, healing, and the rediscovery of one’s intrinsic worth and empowerment in the wake of such devastating relationships.

Resilience Unmasked: Embracing Vulnerability’ Strength

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Resilience Unmasked Embracing Vulnerability' Strength

Timi epitomized strength, even his physique a testament to his rugged nature. Firmly entrenched in his beliefs, he considered vulnerability a trait meant for women, an attribute incompatible with his masculine identity. Despite the weariness visibly etched into each step on his journey homeward, he maintained a façade of unwavering resilience It had been a particularly grueling day at work, and the weight of disappointment bore down on him as he trudged home. Timi pushed open the creaking door of the small, dimly lit room he shared with his younger brother, Michael. The sad look on his face when he told him he couldn’t get his school fees, shattered him.  Without a word, Michael stormed out of the room angrily, and Timi ran after him.  “Let him go,” he heard their mothers who were watching her favorite show say.  Turning away, he caught a glimpse of her loving gaze and the open arms she extended toward him. It was enough for the dam to break. Had she seen his struggles, the relentless pressures that he shouldered? If he had delayed a second longer, he would have masked up and pretended he was fine, as he often did. Timi fell into the embrace of his mother, her arms wrapping around him with the warmth of understanding and unconditional love. He couldn’t hold back anymore. He burst into heavy, loud tears, grateful his younger siblings weren’t home to witness this vulnerability.  Why would he restrain it, he wondered? Wasn’t he the one who had yearned to be able to cry aloud without having to hide behind closed palms? The burden that weighed him down was not solely society’s expectation of unyielding strength from a man, but the overwhelming responsibilities he had taken on. Since his father’s untimely passing, he had stepped into the role of the family’s provider and protector, becoming both husband and father to his younger siblings. He was only a child too. His loud wail eventually subsided into hiccups, and slowly he let himself out of his mother’s comforting embrace. Realizing what had just happened, embarrassed, he abruptly took to his heels. It didn’t feel as liberating as he had thought it would.  She watched him go, a mixture of concern and understanding in her eyes. The last time he saw him cry was the day his father was buried. But today, he had seen her son in a moment of vulnerability, a side of him he had kept hidden for so long. But perhaps, in that moment of openness, Timi had found a safe space to be himself, even if it was only for a brief moment. After a lot of contemplation, she followed him to his room and sat beside him. “Timi, crying doesn’t make you weak. It means you’re human. You don’t always have to bear the weight of the world on your shoulders. It’s okay to let your emotions out. You’ve been so strong for all of us, but remember, it’s not weak men who cry.” As he watched his mother in her wheelchair,  he realized the truth in her words. He could be strong and vulnerable at the same time. He didn’t need to be a solitary hero. Sometimes, he could lean on those who loved him, including his mother. As Timi sank into the recesses of his thoughts, he remembered an article on vulnerability. It was an article he had chanced upon weeks before the emotional outburst that changed his perspective. It emphasized breaking stereotypes and embracing emotional authenticity. Each word of that piece now felt like a lifeline, a guide through the maze of societal expectations. It was a narrative he hadn’t fully understood then, yet its resonance lingered, a quiet companion in the chaos of his emotions. That article, now a beacon of truth, painted vulnerability not as a weakness but as a beacon of strength—a realization that echoed within him as he reflected on the journey he had just experienced.

The Value Of Education 

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The Value Of Education 

In our society, education is experiencing a noticeable decline in quality and without proper diagnosis and appropriate remedies, it becomes vulnerable to further deterioration. It’s disheartening that students are no longer driven by scholarly pursuits; instead, they exhibit indifference toward learning. Some youths have come to conclude that education is a scam when it fails to meet their expectation of employment. Also, our instructional system is influenced by various factors causing its decline, some overt and others more insidious, gradually eroding its quality. Diagnosing these issues is crucial to prevent quality education from becoming a relic of the past. Nevertheless, its worth remains constant.  The Value of Education Beyond certificates for job acquisition, the following are roles education has played in the lives of learners:  Transformative Power: Learning surpasses academic excellence; it stands as a cornerstone for holistic individual development, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional growth. It profoundly shapes temperament, and character, and defines an individual’s personality. Identity Formation and Social Interaction: Learning goes beyond tests and exams; it shapes one’s identity, fostering social interactions, and nurturing a healthy lifestyle. It lays the groundwork for recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses, essential for competency development Behavior and Character Formation: Often overlooked in schools, teachings on behavior and character, especially in subjects like civic education, play a pivotal role. Topics like cultism, drug abuse, good citizenship, and Human Rights actively mold ethical decisions and behaviors. Inculcating Moral Values: There are textbooks and literature texts that significantly influence children’s embrace of virtuous living, resistance to negative influences, and navigation of peer pressure. They contribute immensely to shaping ethical behavior, often undervalued compared to parental influence.  Joseph Addison astutely characterized it as an unwavering companion, resilient against adversity, fostering personal and societal enhancement. Its intrinsic value exceeds academic s success.  Sadly, societal misconceptions have limited education’s worth to job security and rapid wealth accumulation, undermining its vital role in personal advancement and self-development.  It is crucial to recognize education is not a scam but a transformative journey shaping minds, empowering lives, and building the foundation for a thriving tomorrow. 

How to Overcome Low Self-Esteem

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How to Overcome Low Self Esteem

“Struggling with low self-esteem is not uncommon; it often stems from various reasons such as family background, bullying, and personal experiences that left one’s esteem bruised. When I was younger, low self-esteem profoundly affected me, limiting my confidence and leading to constant fear, doubt, negative self-talk, and comparisons. Mistakes terrified me, compliments felt insincere, and I often withdrew from interactions, striving to please peers whom I considered perfect at the expense of my happiness. Low self-esteem rubbed me of so many opportunities, but here I am today, living my dreams. It didn’t happen overnight, I acknowledged my problem and I did everything to be free…” Mr. Fred, went on to share his journey to rebuilding his esteem. Low self-esteem is a negative perception of oneself, characterized by feelings of inadequacy, doubt, and a lack of confidence in one’s abilities or worth. Causes of Low Self-Esteem Low self-esteem is often rooted in diverse sources: Early Experiences: Childhood environments where criticism outweighs praise often sow seeds of self-doubt. Social Interactions: Bullying and societal pressures foster comparisons that diminish self-worth. Traumatic Events: Abuse or neglect deeply impacts self-perception, influencing one’s view of themselves. Cultural and Media Influence: Unattainable ideals perpetuated by culture and media fuel feelings of inadequacy. These multifaceted influences intertwine, creating a complex web that shapes self-perception and capabilities. Understanding these roots highlights the crucial need for nurturing supportive environments to effectively counteract the causes of low self-esteem. Tips to Overcome Low Self-Esteem: Identify Strengths: Recognize your unique qualities, talents, and strengths, often unnoticed due to a focus on weaknesses. Seek input from friends and family to uncover blind spots. Acknowledging Insecurities: Realize that everyone faces insecurities, even if not readily visible. Understand that no one leads a perfect life; what’s shown may not reflect reality. The people you consider to have perfect lives also have their weaknesses. Avoid Comparison: Steer clear of detrimental comparisons, understanding that each person’s journey is unique. Open-Mindedness to Compliments: Be open to and accept compliments without overthinking or dismissing them. Positive Affirmations: Combat negative self-talk by rephrasing weaknesses into positive affirmations and regularly reinforcing them. Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who value and encourage you. Learning to Say No: Develop the ability to say no when necessary, prioritizing your well-being. Journaling: Writing down thoughts and feelings can be therapeutic, aiding in self-reflection and understanding. Consider Therapy: Seeking professional help through therapy can be highly effective in addressing deep-seated issues like low self-esteem. Self-Kindness: Practice self-care and kindness toward yourself, prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being. By focusing on these strategies, individuals can gradually rebuild their self-esteem and develop a more positive self-perception.  ALSO READ: Self-Acceptance: Key to Building a Healthy and Positive Relationship   Remember, overcoming low self-esteem is a journey—a journey toward self-acceptance and resilience. By implementing these strategies and seeking support, you’re taking crucial steps toward a more confident and fulfilling life. Start today by embracing these strategies and seeking guidance if needed. Your path to self-confidence begins with a single step. You deserve to shine!

SCARS

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scars

Jeff jumped from the truck, dressed in Bunker Gear; regulated station wear, made from weightless, breathable, and flame-retardant fabrics. The bulkiness of the fabrics made him look extra large. His hands were safeguarded by large gloves, and he wore sturdy boots to protect his feet. His perfectly fit yellow helmet looks like a shield to preserve his head. He wears a mask over his face that provides clean breathing air that is kept in a tank he wears on his back. Just like his teammate, he looked ready to combat the fire and save the victims in the engulfed building. But before him was a replica of what had happened years ago, and he presumed the world was at a standstill, so he allowed his mind to travel down memory lane.  He was only 15 years old. He had come back from school with his mother’s driver. Mr. Funny, as fondly called, had picked him up from school late. Jeff had watched in complete anguish as the house burned. His mother’s multi-million house was consumed by fire from all sides. The roof, doors, and windows erupted in yellow-blue flames that instantly turned orange. The untamable smoke had dimmed his vision, and all he wanted to do was find his way to the crumbling building to save nothing but his family. He recalled the passersby he never knew existed alighted from their cars, not minding the stormy night sky. He had felt some strong hands deter him from taking another inch                    “Don’t go any further” The sympathy in the stranger’s voice was not mistaken                     “Why is the fire department not here?” Mr. Funny had yelled at someone The 15-year-old boy is now a reclusive firefighter driven by that one ordeal. After that afternoon, he became stoical; with a high level of pain tolerance, he became indifferent to suffering. But today, he allowed the walls of his heart to crumble at the sight of the burning house before him. The fire department he worked for was called minutes ago; they had driven fast here on a rescue mission. They were never late. Then what happened 15 years ago? When his single mother and little sister needed to be saved. Why did the fire department arrive when everything was already in ruins? His family was burnt beyond recognition. He recalled that was the day he decided to prevent a recurrence of such a disaster. He was going to be a firefighter and never would he be late. The state of his helplessness provoked him more. His ambition was almost impossible when he had terrifying nightmares of his burnt family for years. He not only lost his home in a fire, but his sense of security was also lost, and it significantly disrupted the normality of his daily life. The emotional distress made him withdraw from everything. The sight of fire, no matter how little, traumatized him, and he was subjected to sessions with a therapist.                             “Let’s move” he felt his colleagues nudge him.                   “Can they put out the fire in my heart too?” he asked incoherently, his eyes distant. He had lived in denial that he was fine. Free from every torment related to that day. He wished someone would eavesdrop on the conversations in his heart. He wouldn’t mind, at least this once. But everyone was scampering trying to put out the fire, just like that tragic day.                        “Save my mother. Please, save my sister” was the only thing he could mutter. Somehow, all he could see was his 15-year-old boy crying for help. Standing on his feet, he could still pick conversations. All efforts to respond or move failed him “Jeff, we need to move now. We have to be in a position”“ We need him in his area.”“ What’s wrong with him?” “ Where are the rest of the team?” “ They are still at the other breakout.”“How many victims are we talking about here?”“Six, sir.” “Charles and Andrew are putting out the fire”“We are short of staff. What do we do?”“Snap out Jeff. These people need us.” “Ralph is on the way, sir.” The distraction was palpable. Boom. A loud cracking noise. Everyone ran for cover as the whole building collapsed. That was it. Jeff snapped out of his reverie, shedding the tears that refused to drop 15 years ago. A boy tugged at his feet and gave him the saddest glare, like the one he shot the firefighters that day. A fierce stare that held so much meaning; one that pointed accusing fingers at him. “Nothing would have been done if the firefighters had entered”“ What delayed them?”“ They could have died”“The delay was a blessing disguised”Somewhere beside him “We failed. We should have at least tried” “The house was already a mess before we came. There was no way we’d have come out alive”“We knew our lives were at stake when we signed up for this. Maybe the five minutes wasted was all we needed to save a soul”“You think so? It’s a risk calculation. Do we lose the firefighters in a suicidal attempt to rescue people who are probably dead?”Jeff heard all the surrounding discussion. He wasn’t late today, but it didn’t matter. He was punctual, but he let the victims down.Today, he knew his career as a firefighter was over; he failed. He watched helplessly again; doing nothing until another family was burnt to death. “There are numerous ways you can save lives. It doesn’t have to necessarily be through this. Even though it’s your strength, it could be your weakness as well. It might get you stuck in a situation you’d regret.”His doctor had cleared him all the same. With clearance from … Read more

FOOTPRINTS

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footprints

To Ada, nature seemed to be the only thing life could not mess with, as it does with humans. At 16, the sea had become her favorite. It was like a balm to her soul, easing her pain. The recent experience with Papa began to replay in her mind, gaining passage into her thoughts. She wished she could stop them, she wished her brain would delete the traumatizing encounters with Papa, instead of hitting replay anytime her mind wandered. She had done more than wishing. On many occasions, she always tried to stop thinking about the traumatic life with Papa but somehow, it was always a futile effort.It was market day, Papa had given her money to purchase foodstuffs but unfortunately, robbers attacked her on the way. Papa’s wrathful shouting and cussing filled her ears and pierced her heart. Tears rolled down her cheeks, as his words came back to taunt her.‘Do you want to kill me like you killed my wife? Eh, joy killer!” He shouted, landing quick successive slaps on her right cheek before using his belt on her scarred body. She had outgrown physical pain but the emotional assault would always sting, no matter how many times he repeated the same phrase without mincing a word.The constant reminder that her mother died while giving her life, was a pain she couldn’t express with words. The pain was deeper than the jagged, ugly scars riddling her body. She would have cared less if her father’s hatred wasn’t inclusive. He didn’t even make any efforts to disguise his hatred, he made it obvious for everyone to see, even the blind.To him, she killed his loving wife and caused his wretchedness. She wished her father would accept that it was not her fault Mama kicked the bucket the instant she ‘pushed’ her into the world. She desired her father would open his eyes and see she was not an evil child. Who wouldn’t want to be showered with motherly affection? Just as he craved a wife’s love, she too craved a mother’s love! Why wouldn’t he see that?Sometimes, she earnestly hoped he would realize she was just as unlucky as he was. After all, she lost a mother, his acceptance, and his love.Her phone vibrated, jolting her out of her reverie, and confirming it was time to leave. Just like every other footprint staring at her, she stared back, noting the size and imprint of each one.She stood up, shook out her flowing skirt, and took a final glance at the different sizes etched on the sand. It spoke of the different souls with diverse situations, who had also walked across the white sands of the seashore.She wondered if people’s life torments were measured by foot sizes as well. Has someone who lost everything, treaded here? Has someone with mild physical pain sought the peace only serenity can give?There was no way she would know for sure, but she was grateful for the footprints, it was a reminder that she wasn’t alone in her struggles.“A footprint holds the story of an overcomer.” She murmured to herself. The strength to continue living, and the courage to dream and hope for a better life, came from these footprints. These soldiers who had gone before her didn’t give up.“I won’t give up.” She said into the chill air, “One day, my story will change. I will come here again, press my feet deep into the sand, and leave a story of hope.”Wiping a lone tear that escaped her eyes, she pulled her foot from her worn rubber slippers and pressed it into the cool sand.“One day, this sand will bear testimony of my story.” She said as she turned to leave for home; a building that reeked of sorrow, anger, and bitterness, and a family she never got to know.