My Mama warned me never to mistake popularity for acceptance nor activity for purpose. She once pointed me to a rocking chair to show me that motion is not the same as movement. With the benefit of hindsight, my perception of life is changing with age. Reflections.
I used to think that being in the good book of other people translates to my peace until I found out that the best dose of love I can serve anyone is from my reservoir of self love. I took a break from the norm to reflect on which ways I might have allowed life to treat me without my consent.
It was Robert Orben who said “a vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it”. Simply put, the true meaning of vacation is when you choose to live each day as it comes without the regimentation of what must be. Knowing what that means is self love.
When I was a child, many things mattered to me that don’t matter anymore. Some things that used to agitate me now only draw my smiles at best. Some things I craved do not make my priority list anymore. It is a sign that I have grown and I am still growing.
I remember my first ‘tokunbo’ car even when I was still a learner driver. Any minor dent saw me driving to the panel beater’s workshop the following morning. You won’t blame me, it was the farthest I could see at the time.
If you hit my ‘tear rubber’ car today, my first reaction is my safety and that of other occupants of the car. Aesthetic matters, beauty attracts but both are add-ons, the primary purpose of a car is mobility.
A beautiful car without a functional engine is not fulfilling its purpose. A palatial mansion with a leaking roof is still a work in progress, especially when it rains. When you are pursuing purpose, comfort becomes secondary.
As you reflect on your daily routine, ask yourself if you are really fulfilling a purpose or you are busy with activities. A break from the norm reminds you of whom you are beyond what is obvious to a distant observer.
Sometimes, the things that matter are not necessarily the brightest, not the loudest, not even the ones that glitter like a diamond. Many times, the things that matter are less expensive and less attractive but they give you a feeling that is indescribable.
Sometimes, it is okay to minimise your stature so you can see clearly the other side of life. At such times, the counsel you need is the one from yourself to yourself in that idle moment, when everyone else, but you, is busy.
As I stared admiringly at these beautiful sculptures, it struck me deeply that the beauty of life is in its raw nature. Naked it seems but full of lessons. A perfect time to hear from myself with a quick reminder, that I came with nothing and I will leave with nothing.
If you are not used to thinking back, I charge you to pause for a moment. When the sun sets, when the dust settles, when the noise calms, when the moon rises and you are alone in your closet, reflect and reflect again, which of your purposes are you fulfilling?
Mine was an AWOL (Absent Without Official Leave). Yes, I chose to give a trial to what seems abnormal to have a dose of how it feels. Apology is in order for my absence on this page without notice. I missed your company but I must confess I enjoyed my freedom. Reflections.
I leave you with this as I conclude this episode – you may not remember some things but don’t ever forget that God is your source, everything else you have is a resource.
It is a good time for me to say thank you again for your custom. Without you at the other side I will not be here. I am back to my page with renewed vigour and I am glad.
Reflections.
©️ Akin Oluwadare Jnr
18 May 2026
