Image by PBarlowArt from Pixabay

For the past weeks or even a bit longer , I have just been in my own little world.

A lot of quiet thinking, taking my time with a good sip and honestly I have been mostly just pouring my energy into connecting with my loved ones and making sure we all have a safe and cozy space to breathe. I have also been creating connections in my business world. Attending some solar related seminars in my city to boast my knowledge in my solar and electrical skills.

By the way, if I were to have enough cash now, this could have been a good time to go for some holidays.

Maybe visit Spain, Germany..., Ukraine or the UK. Don't ask me why I mentioned those places, you can go ahead to sponsor 😀.

I have been a little quiet on the blog lately, not like I am proud of it. Apart from missing my good friends, I didn't really have the motivation. I just needed that space, life needs such space for something great. So get ready for some great stuff from me.

Life, as they used to say, has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them.

These past weeks have been a real test of what is called resilience.

You know that powerful Nigerian saying, "To be a man no be a day job" , meaning "To be a man is not a day job"

This phrase truly captures the endless responsibilities and the various challenges that come with navigating life, most especially in our part of the world Naija.

And believe me, I have been living that truth lately for a long time now, but it was even much tougher the last two months.

The biggest reason for my unexpected absence? Man, I was working for my rent. Oops, I paid the rent through God sent. May God bless my friend. I was actually working to offset old debts.

In fact, thinking about it makes my chest feel tight.

You see, like many, I faced a significant increase in my house rent, and that hit me hard and I also had other bills to pay. It was so crazy when those bills kept piling up and when it involved saving someone's life.

There were countless sleepless nights spent staring at the ceiling, my mind racing, trying to figure out how to make ends meet and clear this new financial hurdle.

It was not just about the money, it was the pressure, the anxiety, the feeling of being overwhelmed.

But with a lot of effort, good friends and the grace of the creator of the universe, I was able to clear it.

The relief that washed over me when that burden was lifted was absolutely immense. I mentioned it casually last month in one of my posts.

It felt like shedding a heavy cloak I would have been carrying for weeks, if you know what that means.

These past weeks have been a real test of what is called resilience.

So to meet that unexpected expense, I really had to take on some extra jobs....not really related to solar.

My solar installation business here in Uyo, which is usually quite active, has slowed down considerably, well that is how this season is, not just me alone though. Better days ahead. We move, regardless. Ain't giving up!

However, people are interested in solar…no doubt about that.

When I explain how solar energy can save them from the constant power outages and the noise of generators, the air pollution their eyes light up with hope.

But when we start talking about the actual cost, that sparkle often fades due to their pockets.

But I don't blame them most times.

Honestly, the general economy has been tough lately which is making it a little bit difficult for people to afford some significant investments like solar installations for their homes. I mean, everyone loves good things, don't you?

At this point, you can easily decode that it is not a lack of desire but it is simply a lack of available funds. So, I totally understand,that's why I keep hoping for better days.

The economic climate is just… challenging for everyone.

Last night, I was thinking about something very sensitive after I watched a pregnant woman pass on - on Sunday due to negligence. If the economy was good, that woman would go to a private hospital or if the economy was good, maybe all doctors would remain and only work in government hospitals.

Well, this economic strain isn't just affecting only my business alone, it also affects other crucial sectors, most especially healthcare like I mentioned above.

Now, here is the problem - many young Nigerians pursuing medical degrees today whether as doctors or nurses etc are primarily doing so with the hope of leaving the country because of the bad economy.

Their aim to pursue such a career is not necessarily to practice it here in Nigeria, but to use their qualifications as a passport to greener pastures abroad.

And honestly, can you blame them? What they earn as healthcare professionals in Nigeria, despite their rigorous training and long hours in the hospitals and clinics, is often very poor and can't even cover the needs of some families.

It doesn't even match the dedication and sacrifice their profession demands.

And the effect of this, is the reason we are seeing an alarming rise in mortality rates in our hospitals, particularly in government-run facilities.

There is a critical shortage of doctors and nurses. Those who remain are overworked, underpaid and seriously, most times they are demotivated.

Many experienced medical professionals now prioritize establishing their private clinics, where they can earn a decent living, while only maintaining their positions in government hospitals as a means of securing a pension or retirement plan.

And guess what? The quality of service in these Government owned hospitals suffers. It feels like it drops a notch every single day.

The passion and commitment, once so strong, are slowly being eroded by a system that fails to adequately support its most vital workers. I have a lot to say, but I don't wanna talk much about this so as not to be sentimental.

I guess there are problems everywhere when it comes to humanity.

In fact, it is in moments like these that the lyrics of Flavour Nabania's song, "To Be A Man" resonate so deeply.

Have you heard the song before...? Here you go.

The song speaks to the trials, the responsibilities, and the constant hustle required to keep moving in life.

When you are facing financial burdens, working extra days, hours, shifts, and witnessing the struggles of your community, those words about perseverance and standing strong truly hit home.

I think it's also a constant reminder that life demands courage, hard work and an unwavering spirit. WOOSAH!