Do or Die?

How nervy can one be when someone raises a controversial subject that we would rather avoid than confront head-on? Contrarily, I was so fortunate and blessed to participate actively in Chapter 12 of Fred Kofman’s book review. In this chapter of “The power of Transcendent Leadership”, Kofman posited that you must “Die before you die” in other to “find your true nature” and live a meaningful/impactful life. When you “feel a calling at work”, you become highly “motivated to leave behind a meaningful contribution”. The same holds true in every facet of life or human endeavours.

Steve Jobs is no longer here but he left us an enduring legacy. There was a graceful Nigerian, a courageous and unique professional who transformed an agency of Government with world-wide acclaim. Madam Dora Akunyili has no rival even after death. Echoing Honor Africans, David Ayodeji Co-founfer and CEO at Woka Nigeria noted that, “Dora Akunyili received 820 awards during her lifetime. In 2016, two years after her death, her husband discovered 110 more awards packed safely in her boxes, bringing the total to 930. No Nigerian has won more.” What an amazing soul? She fought hard that others may live during her days at NAFDAC.

If you know that you have just 3 minutes left to live, what will you do? Similar question was posed to participants by our facilitator ahead of the review session. Participants who posted their responses on Menti.com had the topmost word as “Pray” and the next as “Forgive”. This is profound! It suggests that when the push comes to shove and we are down to the last moment, our utmost desire is to be at peace with our maker and people around us. Over the years, as I reflect deeply on the philosophy around death, my conclusion remains that death is “Dated End Activating Transition to Heaven (or Hell)”. For those who may be “offended” by the notion of Heaven or Hell, I will be content to replace it with Here-After for neutrality sake. Death is not the end of life. Some left this world but their legacy lives on. Irrespective and ultimately, there’s life after death.

Our world is in crisis! Corona Virus (also referred to as COVID-19) that started in Wuhan, China is spreading globally at an alarming rate. No one knows what the outlook will be in the next 2 to 3 weeks and beyond. We can only be hopeful that the measures being put in place by respective health organisations, governments and concerned citizens of the world would yield the desired end-result soonest. May our collective efforts nip the unwanted plague in the bud as swiftly as possible. As our facilitator reflected, “You die simply because you were born”. When mindfulness of death comes into your decision-making process and the choices you make, you become a better person and consequently a humane leader. It's do or die. Die before you die.

Release for Relief

Today, I am writing about an issue that I am very passionate about using a friend and colleague as a point of reference. Weyinmi Metseagharun (alias Wey) released today’s edition of his weekly musings on his Facebook wall this morning. He began releasing the Sunday morning tonic on 18th January 2015 precisely and he has never looked back since then. He begins his message with “I was thinking this morning.....” and ends with “.....Just the thoughts of certain Wey Mey”. He has done this consistently now for 5 years and we are still counting. How time flies.....Whao! Wey’s unique style of writing, intended audience and reference to the “greatest book of all generations” at the footnote makes him a well branded writer.  

In his words, “I continued my musing every Sunday morning with more of my Facebook friends liking and commenting on my posts. Then the Nostradamus' amongst them woke up. One of them commented, 'You should consider writing a book (with a possibility of series) from your weekly thoughts.'.....I started with one article, continued thinking and writing every Sunday and have not missed a Sunday in the last 5 years. Wow! Next Saturday 8th February 2020, BTGOG, I will be unveiling the first in the 'Thoughts of a Certain Wey Mey' book series. This volume being a compilation of a selection of 75 articles written between 2016 and 2018”. 

Who is this “Nostradamus’ amongst them”?. Between us, we know him. He is the typology of someone who freely sends words of encouragement to others. It’s symbolic of that fellow who readily gives others a pat on the back for a job well done. Who are you influencing positively? Are you a source of motivation to others? Can someone truly say of a truth that you have a positive impact on their life? In all spheres of your life and to the boundaries of your circles of influence, be truly committed to lifting others up to greatest heights. It’s far fulfilling to motivate than demotivate. Unto you I say, “Release to Relief”.

In 2019, one of Wey’s articles went viral - “Life is a Class of One”. Unfortunately, he was not given the credit as it was “stolen” by others who lack the moral fortitude of simply acknowledging original authors as they click share buttons on social media. Wey was undeterred by this incident. Rather, he forged ahead on principle. Ironically, that “golden article” did not make it in the “golden book”. It’s quite delightful to know that it will be published in the 2nd volume to be released at a later date. No qualms. The books will be released in series as divinely purposed to his relief and that of beneficiary of his “golden pen”.

As I wish Wey happy 50th birthday celebration, I also want to encourage someone out there. Do you have an idea or thoughts welled up within you? Don't bottle it up. Unleash it! Release it so you can be relieved. Be more concerned about not dying with your dreams being buried in the grave unfulfilled. The world is waiting for your manifestation. Rise up and shine! Your well of wisdom and blessings shall not run dry. Have a pleasant day!