NIGERIA

TY Bello...another Nigerian artist committed to the growth of the nation.

Telling people about Nigeria remains the hardest thing to do for both our natives and tourists, simply because we just never know what part of the story to tell. Calling one faction to memory and neglecting the other would translate into another nation’s story – not ours. The truth is that we have such a fair share of the best of both worlds. Nigeria is an intrinsic juxtaposition of vigor and debilitation, the glamorous and the grotesque.

That look in the eyes of the Nigerian that only tells you beautiful stories when asked about his country is simply an expression of hope, a deliberate and beautiful denial of what is, an attempt at erasing a confusing history. That young man or woman just wants you to journey with them into the good memories, the ones they hold sacred, the ones strong enough to overshadow the wrongs.

Still, the look in the eyes of the other Nigerian that only talks about horrendous acts of corruption and discouraging spurs of violence is not one of disdain towards flag and country but an expression of frustration, having considered so much of our worse half. He or she only desires to paint you a picture of what they consider the truth, the memories that continue to tear deep into the scars of yesterday, forbidding them to heal.

Truth be told, Nigeria is beautiful, and Nigerians are some of the most hospitable and joyous people on earth; it is TRUE. And, truth also be told, Nigeria could be the ugliest place and some of its people most brutal; it is TRUE. Pardon us; we’re just never sure of what stories to tell. We have tales of extended families that love with all their hearts, stories of abundance and joy, yet we have the other stories.

I remember my mother falling into a pit and getting injured in the process of going after debtors in order to appropriate her business’ worth into the education and well-being of her kids, but I also remember having more than I ever needed or wanted as the years went by. What story would I rather tell you? We have stories of senseless riots (religious or tribalistic) – Biafra and the likes – yet we have stories of a strong sense of unity (Nigeria ’99 FIFA Soccer Competition comes to mind).

Whichever way, be glad to hear any side of the story. When you hear the good, appreciate the reality of much that still needs to be done to make it closer to a 100 percent grace, and when you hear the grassy dirty narratives, appreciate the breath-taking beauty of which you were not told. I personally prefer to tell the better stories more, yet I understand that someone else has to tell the other side. Whichever one you choose, there’s hope; I AM THAT HOPE!

Play the video above and read the post one more time as you listen; the heart of the message may be communicated better.

A Mother is a Priceless Jewel

A Priceless Jewel!

As I thought about the many things that people said about their mothers in church today, the sum of it all was expressed in the words of a brother that said “mothers are the epitome of selfless service.” As my Pastor began to explain, none of us could do anything by ourselves as children. We were invariably helpless; we had to be fed, clothed and carried. If those three chores were the only reasonable things a mother did for her child, she is still worth the honor.

Most people have more than one mother, in the sense of the saying “it takes a village to raise a child.” So, I am very appreciative of all my spiritual mothers and my physical mother (who happens to be very spiritual in her dealings too). There is an instinct within mothers that preserves, protects and nourishes. My mother has sacrificed more than I can possibly remember or count. She has loved and continues to love like nobody else can. As imperfect as she may be, her beauty grew ever so strong with every sacrifice that she made for me.

One most remarkable thing I learned today is that mothers deserve honor whether or not their actions were the best. But, if you have (or had) a mother  who demonstrated her love toward you, you are the better for it and should be very appreciate her. I also learned that reaching my highest potential in life depended greatly on the honor I accrue to my parents and those in authority over me. So, once again, many thanks to my mothers!

To wrap it up, I think it is most remarkable that God is referred to as El-Shaddai, the Strong and Breasted One. He amazes me all the time. He can protect you like a Father would and turn around to nourish and love you like only a Mother would. If you never knew your mother or she has passed, appreciate her and keep her in your heart in whichever way you can, but remember always that you have a father and a MOTHER in God.

Happy Mother’s Day!!!

-- @stburnish

P.S: I just think the song below speaks a lot concerning the HolySpirit (my first mother) and my other mothers (especially Ye ‘Lubusi – my mother).