Throughout life’s journey, I have realized, discovered and experienced life’s insights that resonated deeply within me, yet rarely spoken of by people.
Undoubtedly, as individuals, our uniqueness sets us apart, making each of our stories distinct and exceptional.
Even though we haven’t met in person and we may not have crossed paths, The theme of this article is to create awareness and inform you that you are unique and your exceptional qualities, every traits and every talents you possess within you stands you out making you distinct from others.
Have unexpected situations ever caught you off guard? How did you cope? Ever seen yourself in a situation you came across that you never thought of?
Unexpected challenges can take a toll on mental and emotional well-being, leading some to contemplate drastic measures like suicide
I am not saying this to undermine their strength, rather the point I am making is that if only they knew that there is something more powerful that lies deep (the untapped potential for resilience that exists) within every individual
To you reading this - believe in yourself – you’re more resilient and stronger than you realize.
The power lying within each and everyone of us is an embodiment of grace and unique strength God has bestowed upon us.
Within you lies a hidden strength, waiting to be discovered and unleashed when needed. Yes, you possess an inner power that remains untapped until you recognize and harness it.
Here's a brief summary of my story of myself as it relates with my earlier deduction on the theme of my write up.
As a child, my meticulous nature was rooted in a deep-seated need for control, driven largely due to a lingering fear that any unexpected turn of events could have a profound impact on my life."
During my school days, I encountered and faced a daunting challenge, what started as manageable difficulties with basic needs escalated and things took a drastic turn until it got to a point were I could not even afford my tuition fees, before then, while growing up, affording basic necessities was initially constant.
Suddenly, I was overwhelmed by a sense of despair, It felt like the end of the road, to continue became seemingly impossible. I thought I reached my breaking point as I didn’t know how to keep going. The urge to give up became almost unbearable. I felt like ending it all. I Just needed to give up as I uttered within me that I couldn’t take it any longer.
"Given my meticulous nature and disciplined approach to life, I was shocked to find myself in such a dire situation. I felt overwhelmed with depression, I had thoughts of loss of life’s purpose, anxieties and uncertainties about the future as it deeply affected my academic pursuits, I muttered within me “taking my life would be the best option after all”.
But, thanks to a friend whose affirming words encouraged reassuring me that I possessed inner strength and resilience.
She uttered “Look within you, yes you can make it, You can do all things through Christ that strengthens you” coupled with faith, I found the courage to persevere. Miraculously, I overcame that challenging phase, emerged stronger and I was able to overcome and scale through, Glory be to God.
On another occasion, Post-NYSC, I embarked on a job search but faced challenges finding opportunities in my discipline. I shifted focus to perfecting my fashion design skills, aiming to become self-sufficient as my monthly allowance came to an abrupt end immediately I completed my service year.
With limited budget, I settled for a humble apartment occasioned with lack of basic amenities such as roof leaks, non functional restrooms with poor bathroom facilities, frequent water and electricity outages and other irregular utilities.
When I moved into the apartment I couldn’t afford a bed, chair and other essentials needed to furnish and make the room livable. A kind woman offered to assist me with a bed I could lay on for the intervening time when she found out I wasn’t financially disposed to purchase one.
While learning my skill, I usually received weekly allowance from my fashion design instructor. The harsh reality of the country’s economic downturn and cost of living aggravated and further exacerbated my financial struggles making it even harder to cope as my weekly expenditure surpassed my weekly income despite several measures to cut down cost, being more frugal and living below my means.
To cut cost, I stopped buying bottled water and started drinking from tap water, I got accustomed to using wheel-barrows to fetch water, falling occasionally and sustaining injuries. When it rained I’d come back home to meet a soaked bed, most times I’d sleep on a wrapper if the bed was too wet to lay on.
As a young lady, facing these struggles really took a toll on me, I hit a low point feeling extremely depressed but when I reminded myself that “I am stronger than I think” I found the inner courage, strength and confidence that I will pull through by God’s help.
I knew the option wasn’t taking my life, I realized life’s challenges wasn’t about giving up but to reassure myself that I will make it.
I also drew strength from Christ's words to Apostle Paul, who struggled with a thorn in the flesh and when he was about to give up Christ assured him “My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.'
I gained more insight and encouragement when Apostle Paul further said he gained strength when the inner strength of Christ that dwelt inside of him is revealed during times of weaknesses”
If more people tapped into their inner energy and harnessed the strength of resilience, the rates of psychological breakdowns and suicides would significantly decrease, if not disappear altogether. By recognizing and harnessing this inner fortitude, individuals could overcome adversity and thrive in the face of challenges.”
My goal is to inspire you reading this assuring you that you have an inner strength to overcome life’s adversity, no matter what life throws at you, realize that you possess the inner strength to triumph. With faith and determination you’ll emerge victorious. You are capable. You are strong. You have what it takes to win. There is strength within. Keep the hope alive
I love you all.