The Importance of a Comprehensive Handwritten Family Plan

The Importance of a Comprehensive Handwritten Family Plan

Divorce is a common phenomenon in today's world, and it's no surprise that many people are afraid of committing to a long-term relationship due to the potential risks involved. As someone who values the importance of having a stable family life, I understand this fear all too well. That's why one of the first conversations I have with any potential partner is about creating a comprehensive family plan.

A family plan is like a road-map for your future together. It outlines your goals, values, and expectations as a couple, as well as your plans for raising children, managing finances, and dealing with conflicts. It's not just a document that you create once and then forget about – it's an ongoing process that requires regular updates and adjustments as your circumstances change.

I've found that many ladies I talk to about this are initially put off by the idea of creating a family plan. They see it as too formal or rigid, or they simply don't see the need for it. But I believe that having a family plan is essential for building a strong, healthy relationship that can withstand the challenges of life.

Drawing a parallel between a family and a successful company can help us understand the value of long-term planning. In every organisation, there are key positions, stakeholders, and goals. Similarly, a family comprises key roles, such as the Chief Executive Officer (Husband), Chief Operations Officer (Wife), Shareholders (In-laws), and Employees (Children). Just as businesses thrive with strategic plans, so too can families benefit from a well-defined plan.

To further illustrate this point, I turned to an unlikely source for advice – an Artificial Intelligence model. I asked it to suggest a number of items that should be included in a family plan, and its results are below.

The AI also found that couples who create a family plan are more likely to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and make decisions together. They also tend to have stronger relationships with their children and extended family members, and they are better equipped to handle unexpected challenges like job loss or illness.

So what does a comprehensive family plan look like? It can vary depending on your individual circumstances, but some key components might include:

– A statement of your shared values and goals as a couple.
– A plan for how you will manage finances and save for the future.
– A strategy for raising children, including discipline, education, and extracurricular activities.
– A plan for managing conflicts and disagreements.
– A contingency plan for unexpected events like illness or job loss.

Creating a family plan can be a daunting task, but it's worth the effort. It can help you build a strong foundation for your relationship, reduce the risk of divorce, and ensure that you and your partner are on the same page when it comes to your future together.

The Three Pillars of Success: Luck, Hardwork, and Opportunity

In the pursuit of success, we often come across individuals who seem to effortlessly rise to the top, leaving us in awe of their achievements. We wonder what sets them apart from the rest of us and what factors contribute to their remarkable success. While there are numerous factors that play a role, three main elements consistently emerge: luck/grace, hardwork/effort, and opportunity/time. In this post, I will delve into these three pillars of success and explore how they have shaped the journeys of renowned artists like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy.

 

Luck/Grace:

Luck, often considered as a stroke of fortune or a twist of fate, can play a significant role in an individual's success. It manifests as unexpected opportunities, chance encounters, or unanticipated events that can propel someone to greater heights. Wizkid, a Nigerian music sensation, is a prime example of how luck and grace can pave the way to success. His rise to stardom came when he caught the attention of a music executive who recognised his talent and signed him to a record deal. This stroke of luck provided him with a platform to showcase his abilities to a wider audience. However, it is important to note that luck alone cannot sustain success. Talent, hard work, and perseverance are essential to maintain and build upon the initial stroke of luck.

 

Hardwork/Effort:

While luck can create opportunities, it is hard work and unwavering effort that transforms opportunities into tangible success. Davido, another prominent Nigerian artist, exemplifies the power of hard work and determination. Despite being born into a wealthy family, he chose to forge his own path in the music industry. Davido's relentless work ethic, coupled with his passion for music, led him to write, produce, and promote his own songs. He tirelessly honed his craft, performing at countless shows and consistently releasing music, earning him a loyal fanbase and numerous accolades. Davido's story demonstrates that success is not solely dependent on luck, but on the dedication and effort put into pursuing one's passion.

 

Opportunity/Time:

Opportunity, coupled with the element of time, plays a crucial role in achieving success. It is the intersection where preparation meets the right moment, enabling individuals to seize opportunities and make the most of them. Burna Boy, a Nigerian artist known for his unique blend of afrobeat and reggae, embodies the fusion of opportunity and hard work. He tirelessly worked on his music, collaborating with other artists and refining his sound over the course of a decade. The turning point in Burna Boy's career came when he was nominated for a Grammy Award. This recognition opened doors to international collaborations and global platforms, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the music industry. Burna Boy's journey showcases the significance of time, persistence, and the ability to capitalize on opportunities when they arise.

 

Successful people often possess two of these elements, but the abundantly successful ones are blessed with all three. It is the alignment of luck/grace, hard work/effort, and opportunity/time that propels individuals to exceptional heights. The stories of Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy highlight the intricate interplay of these factors in their rise to stardom.

While it is true that these elements play a significant role in success, it is important to acknowledge that they are not entirely within our control. We cannot control luck, nor can we predict the opportunities that will come our way. However, what we can control is our dedication, perseverance, and the constant pursuit of self-improvement. By consistently honing our skills, staying prepared, and maintaining a positive mindset, we increase our chances of capitalizing on the opportunities that do arise.

Notorious for Forgetting Names: Making Connections Anyway

Do you ever find yourself forgetting people's names almost as quickly as they tell it to you? It can be frustrating, not only for those around you but also for yourself. I am one of those people. My mind has a natural affinity for purging itself of information that it deems as non-vital to my existence especially at that moment. While this may seem like a disadvantage, it's given me a unique perspective on the importance of connecting with everyone around me, regardless of whether or not I'll ever see them again.

I've accepted that remembering someone's name doesn't necessarily equate to a genuine human connection. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that memory equals interest in a person; however, this isn't always the case. Asking for a name, even if I won't retain it, is more about being fully present in that moment and acknowledging the person in front of me. It's a way of showing that I value their presence and yapping, regardless of how memorable I may find the conversation to be.

There are many different ways people connect, and I believe that genuine connections can be formed in a myriad of ways. In my experience, it's not just about remembering a name or other data points. Sometimes, it's as simple as a smile or a laugh shared with a stranger that can make a lasting impression. Focusing too much on remembering things can cause one to miss out on the present moment and the richness of the interaction happening in real-time.

This way of thinking has helped me to let go of the pressure to remember everything about every person I meet, and it's allowed me to be fully engaged in the moment. It makes me more approachable since people don't feel like I'm quizzing them or putting them under a microscope. It's helped me appreciate each interaction for what it is, not for what I can gain from it.

Now, this isn't to say that I don't still struggle with feeling bad for forgetting names. While I may forget a name, I never forget a kindness, a shared experience, or a moment of laughter. It's these moments that make connections genuine, and it's these moments that will stick with me long-term.

In the end, I believe that we should all strive to be more present in our interactions with others, whether or not we remember all the details. It's important to see the value in each unique interaction and to cherish the moments we have with each other. So, next time you forget someone's name, don't sweat it. Focus instead on being present in the moment and cultivating a genuine connection with the person in front of you because this is what I would do 😊.

Moving Beyond Recognition: Exploring Africa’s Path to Technological Advancement

In today's world, the contributions of African researchers and scientists like Sir Geoff Palmer, Clifford Johnson, and Christopher Jackson are gaining well-deserved recognition in the scientific community. However, the overall perception of Africa as an advanced continent still lags. This disparity can be attributed to the lack of significant inventions that have global impact and solve everyday problems, leading to a common misconception among the general population. In this post, we will delve into the importance of innovation, and explore how Africa can reshape its narrative by focusing on practical inventions.

1. The Gap between Scientific Achievements and Everyday Innovation:
While African scientists are making remarkable contributions to various scientific fields, the inventions originating from the continent have not gained global recognition in the same way as those from countries like the United States, China, Europe and so on. Companies like Apple, Facebook, Netflix, Microsoft, TikTok and Uber have become household names, but their African counterparts are yet to emerge. Basically, the lack of practical innovation hinders Africa's reputation as a technologically advanced continent.

2. Recognising the Perspective of the Common Man:
It is crucial to understand that the common man, who forms a significant portion of society, often determines the perception of a continent's development. Those who are exposed and educated cannot shape the minds of everyone out there, and we must not blame them for being unexposed to the complexities of the world, especially when it doesn't directly impact on them. The absence of everyday inventions that directly impact their lives leaves little reason for them to recognise Africa's progress. Instead, they are more likely to associate advanced technologies with countries they are familiar with. Consequently, I believe that bridging this perception gap requires Africa to focus on solving everyday problems faced by its citizens as well as the rest of the world.

3. The Need for Real-Life Problem Solving:
In order to change the narrative surrounding Africa's development, it is essential to shift the focus from scientific research and achievements alone to inventions that tackle real-life challenges. By developing practical innovations, Africa can create solutions that first addresses its own issues such as access to clean water, communications, healthcare, education, and sustainable energy, before it can then take to the rest of the world. New inventions would most likely resonate with the common man, generating the recognition and respect for Africa's ability to contribute meaningfully to global progress.

4. Stepping Up in Innovation:
To foster technological advancement, African countries need to prioritise investment in research and development, as well as support entrepreneurial initiatives. Encouraging collaborations between scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs can lead to the creation of innovative solutions. Furthermore, governments and institutions should provide funding, mentorship programs, and infrastructure to nurture a thriving innovation ecosystem. We must step into being market leaders, as opposed to being market players in the international business setting.

5. Redefining Progress:
The journey towards technological advancement should not solely rely on external recognition but rather focus on improving the quality of life. By developing inventions that positively impact daily lives beginning in its own home land, Africa can reshape the narrative surrounding its progress. This shift will lead to a greater understanding and appreciation from both local and international communities.

Africa has immense potential for technological advancement, and its scientists' contributions are gaining well-deserved recognition. However, to change the perception of the continent as a whole, we must prioritise the development of inventions that address real-life problems faced by its people. We must bridge the gap between scientific achievements and everyday innovation, we can reshape its narrative, gain respect, and contribute to global progress in a meaningful way. We are way past the time for Africa to step up. The best time to start was yesterday, the next best time to start is today. We must begin to invest in research and development, and foster an innovation-driven ecosystem that will lead to a brighter future for the entire continent.

Happiness: Easy to Find, But Balance is Key

In a world that constantly glorifies happiness and shuns sadness, it's easy to believe that happiness should be our constant state of being. We often find ourselves striving for eternal bliss, chasing after moments of ecstasy and avoiding any semblance of sadness. However, what if I told you that happiness alone is not the key to a fulfilling life? It is in the delicate balance between happiness and sadness that we find true contentment. In this blog post, we will explore the notion that happiness is easy to find, but it is the search for equilibrium between joy and sadness that poses the real challenge.

Embracing Sadness:
While it may seem counter-intuitive, embracing sadness is an essential part of leading a well-rounded life. Just as light cannot exist without darkness, happiness loses its meaning without the contrasting emotions of sadness. Sadness allows us to appreciate the beauty of happiness, as it provides us with perspective and depth and makes us to recognise moments we are happy. It serves as a reminder that life is a series of highs and lows, and it is through the lows that we grow, learn, and develop resilience.

The Dangers of Constant Euphoria:
Imagine a life in which you are ecstatic 24/7, a perpetual state of bliss with no room for reality to ground you. At first glance, it may seem like an ideal existence, but upon closer inspection, it feels like being under the influence of drugs without ever experiencing sobriety. Without the ability to acknowledge and process negative emotions, we lose connection with reality, and when with the absence of reality, we become vulnerable to just about anything.

So how can we find this delicate balance between happiness and sadness? It begins with acknowledging and accepting the full range of our emotions. By allowing ourselves to experience sadness, we gain a greater appreciation for the moments of happiness that come our way. We learn to ride the waves of emotions, rather than clinging to a single state. This understanding leads to personal growth and an increased capacity for empathy towards others who may be going through difficult times.

While happiness is undoubtedly a desirable state, it is in the delicate dance between happiness and sadness that we find true fulfilment. Embracing sadness allows us to appreciate the beauty of happiness, while striving for balance ensures that we lead authentic and meaningful lives.

Morals and Tolerance: Maybe it’s Racism

Let me preface this by emphasising that this post is not an attempt to complain about racism; rather, it aims to reflect on the boundary between morals and tolerance by attributing a hint of perceived racist behaviour.

Since I have been living in a white man's country, I almost always classify certain actions as non-racist and even make excuses for how they shouldn't always be perceived from a racial standpoint, but at the same time, I also often encounter actions that simply don't make any sense to me, except as clear instances of racism. Despite their potential validity, there are a few things that cannot be overlooked.

Here's one encounter I had yesterday that I would share with you.

In Glasgow, it's not uncommon to often find yourself inside noisy public transports. I recall a particular instance when I was on a bus, some white teenager had his boombox speaker blasting loud music and no one said a word to complain about the noise.

On this given day, I sat on the upper deck of an empty bus, a lady who was seated at the forefront, several seats away from me suddenly complains about the sound coming from my phone. The sound in question was from a comedy skit on Instagram, nothing too intrusive, I was even shocked at how she was able to hear it from that distance as you can see from the photo. And then I wondered, even if the noise was disturbing her that much, couldn't she have simply moved to the lower deck? The lower deck was completely empty, so was it necessary for her to complain about the sound? Would she have complained if I were white and watching white people comedy?
I would bet that she was genuinely triggered by the sound because she couldn't understand a word in the comedy skit. And for some of my readers that may be fond of Nigerian comedy skits, there's usually bridges of laughter and ridicule, so maybe this lady must have been somewhat annoyed by these combining elements.

At this point, I began to reflect on the lack of tolerance here, or maybe subtlety of racism? The lady didn't say anything explicitly derogatory or offensive, but I'm of the opinion that her complaint about my video was still rooted in prejudice. It's important to note that subtle forms of racism, can be just as damaging as more obvious acts of discrimination1.

In this situation, I'm questioning myself whether I should say something to her, ignore her and continue enjoying my video or just let it go. On one hand, I don't want to cause a scene or make things uncomfortable for myself and the other person sitting beside her.

Another aspect of racism that I've struggled with is the idea of tolerance. In theory, tolerance is a good thing. It's important to be open-minded and accepting of others, even if they're different from us. However, there comes a point where tolerance becomes harmful. When we tolerate racism and other forms of discrimination, we're essentially saying that it's okay for people to hold these beliefs and act on them. This is where the line between morals and tolerance becomes blurred. This is also why actions against anti-racism has always been a difficult balance to strike, and one that we are still all figuring out.

Anyways, while I was still deliberating on which action to take, she approached her own stop apparently, then alighted from the bus. Again, leaving me even more reasons to question why she complained in the first place when she was almost reaching her destination.

I think this incident made me realise how important it is to recognise and address the subtleties of racism. Again, she may not have been racist, or she may – I still find this inconclusive. However, this opens room to reflect on the complexities of prejudice and discrimination amongst different races all over the world.
Your thoughts?

1. "Or, it can be as simple as a white customer in a restaurant walking over to a table of Korean American customers and asking them to lower their voices because their “loud accent” is disturbing her dinner." https://www.r2hub.org/library/overt-and-covert-racism

Is Help Really Help If There Are Strings Attached?

In our lives, there are moments when we find ourselves in need of help. It could be a financial crisis, an emotional breakdown, or simply a difficult decision to make. Seeking assistance in these times is only natural; after all, we are social beings, interdependent on one another. However, the concept of help goes beyond the surface-level definition. It delves into the realms of intention, perception, and the dynamics between giver and receiver.

When faced with the prospect of receiving help, several questions come to mind. Is it helpful if we have to pay back for it at a later time? Is it helpful if everyone around us is aware that we sought assistance? Is it helpful if the person who helped us constantly reminds us of their assistance? These questions challenge the conventional understanding of help and force us to question its true nature.

We live in a society that often values transactions and reciprocity. It is not uncommon for assistance to come with a price tag or a hidden expectation of repayment. However, true help transcends these superficial conditions. Genuine assistance arises from a place of compassion, empathy, and a sincere desire to alleviate someone's suffering. It stems from the recognition that we are all interconnected, and by helping others, we contribute to the betterment of our collective existence.

Help loses its essence when it becomes burdened with the expectation of reciprocation. Expecting repayment for our acts of kindness diminishes the purity of the gesture and transforms it into a transactional exchange1. True help, on the other hand, is selfless and does not seek validation or a return on investment. It is rooted in the understanding that offering assistance is an opportunity to make a positive impact on someone's life, irrespective of any future obligation.

Similarly, the awareness of others about our acts of assistance should not be a prerequisite for their effectiveness. The purpose of helping is not to gain recognition or praise but to genuinely lend a hand to someone in need. The true power of help lies in its ability to uplift, inspire, and transform lives, even when it goes unnoticed by the public. It is the quiet moments of support, the gentle words of encouragement, and the empathetic presence that hold the greatest significance, regardless of whether they are acknowledged or not.

Furthermore, constantly reminding others of how we have assisted them undermines the sincerity of our actions and diminishes its authenticity. Help should not be an opportunity for self-glorification or a means to establish superiority. It should be a humble act, carried out without expectation or the desire to inflate our own egos. When we truly help others, we do so without attaching strings or reminders. We understand that the impact of our assistance is best felt when it is allowed to resonate within the hearts of those we have helped, rather than being overshadowed by our constant reminders.

Understanding the true essence of help is crucial in our interactions with others. It allows us to navigate the delicate balance between offering assistance and respecting personal boundaries. We must recognise that everyone has their own unique way of receiving and expressing gratitude. Some may openly express their appreciation, while others might internalise their gratitude. And sometimes, those who appear ungrateful might simply be struggling to reconcile their own vulnerabilities and insecurities with the help they have received.

But does help lose its essence if we have to pay it back at a later time? Not necessarily. Repaying a debt of help can be a way to honour the interconnectedness between individuals and maintain a sense of balance. However, the key lies in the understanding that repayment should not diminish the initial act of assistance. It should be approached with gratitude and a genuine intention to reciprocate, rather than turning it into an obligation2.
So, the next time you offer or seek help, remember to embrace its true essence. Be mindful of your intentions and let go of the need for external validation. Understand that being in a position to offer help is a gift, and its value lies in the connections it fosters and the positive change it brings. By embodying the essence of help, we can create a world where compassion and empathy thrive, and where the power of assistance transforms lives for the better.

“The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.” ~Samuel Johnson

But here are some retrospective questions for you to guide me: You may choose to answer only one or all.

• Is it help if you have to pay back for it at a later time?
• Is it help if everyone is aware that you offered assistance?
• Is it help if you constantly remind how you assisted?
• Should I be selective of who I turn to for assistance?
• Am I ungrateful to someone who believed offered me some assistance during my down time because of their self-glorification?


FURTHER READING ⬇️

1. Expectations for the self-destroys goodness of an action. You may not want to get money or other tangible benefits from your good deed but wishing for blessing or recognition of what you have done is still expecting something in return and that is wrong. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/doing-good-deeds-without-expecting-anything-return-mel-mel-feller/
2. Releasing expectations doesn’t mean you give other people permission to treat you thoughtlessly. It just means you check in with your motivations and give because you want to, and then ask for things directly when you want them. People who care about you will be there for you in return. https://www.pravmir.com/do-good-deeds-in-secret-and-do-not-expect-gratitude/

Forgive and Forget: Myth or Reality?

Forgive and forget

Forgiveness and forgetting are often mentioned together, but what do they really mean? Is it truly possible to completely forget a hurtful event? In this blog post, I will explore the concept of forgiveness and forgetting, and delve into the idea that remembering can actually be beneficial in our personal growth and self-preservation. Moreover, I will discuss how forgiveness does not imply absolving the offender from consequences. Let's dive into the complexities of forgiveness and the significance of remembering by exploring various instances.

1. The True Meaning of Forgiveness:
Forgiveness is a profound act of releasing ourselves from the burden of anger, resentment, and the desire for revenge. I don't support that it necessarily entails forgetting the wrongdoing, instead, it involves a conscious decision to let go of negative emotions and choose a path of healing and understanding1.

Instances:
– Chioma's friend betrayed her by spreading rumours. While Chioma forgave her friend, she did not forget the incident. This should enable Chioma to establish healthier boundaries with her friend and choose her new friends more wisely in the future, right?

– Emeka's business partner embezzled funds, causing the company financial ruin. Although Emeka forgave him, he did not forget the incident. This should motivate Emeka to implement stronger financial controls in his subsequent ventures, ensuring a similar situation would never happen again.

2. The Power of Remembering:
From a biological standpoint, forgetting traumatic experiences completely is nearly impossible. Our memories are deeply ingrained in our minds, and even if we forgive, the memories of the pain and betrayal may still be retrieved should we be exposed to a near similar occurrence2. Remembering a hurtful event can serve as a valuable lesson and a form of self-protection. It allows us to recognise red flags, avoid potential harm, and make informed decisions in the future. Remembering does not help to build a malicious intent, but by remembering, we empower ourselves with knowledge and wisdom gained from past experiences.

Instances:
– Tomi was in an abusive relationship but eventually found the strength to leave. While she forgave her ex-partner for the pain inflicted, she remembered the signs of manipulation and control. This awareness protected Tomi from falling into a similar situation again and helped her cultivate healthier relationships.

– John experienced a betrayal in a professional setting when a co-worker stole his ideas. Although he forgave the co-worker, he remembered the importance of trust and collaboration. This remembrance guided John to establish stronger partnerships and safeguard his intellectual property.

3. Consequences and Accountability:
Forgiveness does not absolve the offender from the consequences of their actions. It is crucial to distinguish forgiveness from condoning or excusing wrongdoing. While forgiveness involves letting go of personal resentment, it does not mean that the offender should be free from accountability or face no repercussions for their behaviour3.

Instances:
– Ugonna's neighbour caused damage to her property due to negligence. Ugonna forgave her neighbour for the mistake but insisted on a fair compensation for the repairs. This demonstrated that forgiveness and accountability can coexist, ensuring justice is served while fostering personal growth.

– Nonso's friend borrowed a significant amount of money but failed to repay it. Although Nonso forgave his friend, he maintained a sense of responsibility. He discussed the issue, expressing the need for repayment by instalments, or finding a solution that would restore trust and financial balance.

In summary, the concept of forgiving and forgetting is complex and multifaceted. While forgiving allows us to find inner peace and let go of negativity, forgetting is not a realistic expectation. To me, remembering can serve as a tool for personal growth and self-protection. I think it's important to strike a balance between forgiveness and the appropriate consequences for the offender.
Now, your turn. What are your thoughts on forgiveness? Do you believe it's possible to truly forget? Let's learn from one another's perspectives.


FURTHER READING ⬇️

1. The apostle Paul said in our text that we are to forgive “as” God in Christ forgave us. The word “as” points to two things. We are to forgive because God forgave us. https://www.acts29.com/forgiveness-what-it-is-what-it-is-not/
2. Memories are biological phenomena and as such are dynamic. Exposure to cues that trigger the recall or retrieval of traumatic memories activates the neural systems that are storing the memories. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/traumatic-memory-can-be-near-impossible-shake
3. Forgiveness does not mean condoning or excusing a wrong. And it doesn’t minimize or justify the wrong. We can forgive the person without excusing the act. https://www.markmerrill.com/forgiveness-its-not-what-you-think/#:~:text=Forgiveness%20does%20not%20mean%20condoning,offender%20without%20reestablishing%20the%20relationship.

Why I Don’t Like Being Sympathised With

There is something about sympathy that makes me feel uneasy. I am not a fan of being pitied or feeling like I am being treated like a victim. I've tried to put my finger in it, and to an extent I'm beginning to understand why.

When I experience failure or make a mistake due to my actions, I'd rather not want to be relieved of the consequences, I'd rather accept them and learn from them. Accepting responsibility helps me refrain from repeating the same mistakes, thereby becoming a better person.

At the same time, I am also learning to let go of the things that are beyond my control. When things don’t go as planned, I'd rather leave it to fate than dwell on what ifs or feel sorry for myself. The idea of someone worrying about me or trying to make me feel better just doesn’t sit well with me. It’s almost as if sympathy disempowers me.

Moreover, my discomfort with sympathy is not to say that I don't want help when I need it. I always request assistance when necessary, however, I don't want to involve others in my problems in a way that makes them feel sorry for me. And in that same vein, I don't want to feel sorry for myself, either.

The lesson I've learned from all of this is that accepting failures and moving on is not a show of weakness. If anything, confronting my obstacles has made me stronger and more resilient. And while I still have much to discover about myself, I do understand that sympathy is just not for me.

In consequence, when things go wrong, I tell myself to remember: “accept responsibility for your part and learn from your mistakes, and don't be too hard on yourself when you face inevitable setbacks”. Life gets messy and it's normal to feel scared or vulnerable at times, but don't let pity take away your power and confidence.

I think it's okay not to want sympathy, and it took me a while to understand that. However, knowing what makes me uncomfortable is a step towards being more aware of myself. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and knowing yours will be beneficial in so many ways.

Connection Lost: A Cautionary Tale of Ghosting

At that moment, there was an adrenaline rush in her. She was quick to saying yes to us having to hang out again. Even with a 3% battery life, she popped open her phone to exchange contacts with me for us to make it happen, and she even replied her text with a cute emoji. So what then happened as to why she neither replies her texts nor take her phone calls anymore? Ghosting?
Well, here's a story of a guy (me) who met a beautiful white lady at the bus stop. She was stranded on that day having left her house keys back at home. You see, the only way she could get back in was if her flat mate comes back from work, hence, she must wait at the bus stop for an extra 3 hours.

How did I get this much information within just a few minutes I had while waiting for my bus? That's exactly what I'm trying to say, we instantly connected on a level that I hadn't even expected with a white girl. I can't really remember how we began a conversation but she expressed how difficult it is for her to make friends, which is actually true about the people of Scotland. She expressed how employers in Glasgow must make you work every penny for every hour you are being paid for, and this is unlike the country side in England where she's from.
She had just relocated from England with her parents less than 3 months ago and she's taking some time to adjust, hence her excitement to meet someone new at the bus stop on this day.

As I checked that my bus may approach in a few minutes, I quickly asked if I could visit her sometime with my Scrabble board and go a few rounds and we can learn more about each other's backgrounds. She instantly said yes, pointing right to her flat which was a few steps from the bus stop.

Now, a few days have passed and still no text replies nor phone calls, even though she had replied to my earlier text. So, how do I feel about this?

I would not lie that I don't feel ghosted, but there's a certain feeling of satisfaction that comes with it. The satisfaction of knowing that she probably accessed herself2, and as much as finding a new friend is cool, but is a Black friend really what she wanted?
This is not in anyway a racist mindset at all, some just find it easier to build deeper connections within their racial and cultural limits – I find it just a thing of preference. I could as well choose to only make friends with the black people around me and it shouldn't be a big deal.
I however feel satisfied that she has saved both of us the stress of investing in what won't last, rather than pretentiously being cool with me for a longer time.

As much as she's expressed her loneliness in a new city, loneliness should not be a criteria to open your doors to just anyone. She doesn't know me and I don't know her. Again, this is why self assessment is important1.

Moral of the story: Genuine connections are valuable, but it's essential to understand that people have their preferences when building relationships. Managing expectations and self-assessment play crucial roles in fostering authentic connections.


FURTHER READING ⬇️

1. Don’t date because you’re scared to be alone, or because you need validation. You need to work on finding that validation from within, and you need to cultivate a relationship with yourself you relish- being alone should be blissful because you know how awesome you are. https://michellepanning.com/2022/03/28/not-ready-to-date-41/
2. With over 8 Billion people on this planet, why put so much pressure on ourselves to find that one person, especially if it’s at the expense of our own happiness and well-being? https://mymindtoyours.com/know-thyself-the-key-to-successful-relationships/