Drive Out The Old MAN.....

Hello Bloggville...(Waving).

So, yes I actually haven't  gotten deep on this blog before (the time is coming, lol). Ok, today after church I have decided to share the preaching that was inspired by my Pastor.

The idea of this topic is to just enlighten us on our journey with salvation and our relationship with God.

So after receiving the word preached today, I will explain (through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) with a less altered version.

I would encourage us to have a Bible, a pen and paper to take notes if we want..

In general, the purpose of accepting Jesus as our personal saviour is that we  believe he died for all the sins of men and for us to receive eternal life. In addition, this propels us to be born-again in other to see the Kingdom of God. John 3:3. Thus, to be born -again is to accept we now have a new life with Jesus and our old ways are passed away.  2 Corithians 5:17.NKV "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, old things have passed away, behold all things have become new" This  was what Paul wrote in the Bible. So if this case, that after receiving Jesus in our hearts, our sinful ways which is the old ways of doing things without law, conscience or responsibility  is now all in the past. But yet, many of us are born again and our actions are still very much the old way, i.e. we still have not changed in any shape, way or form. In fact, there is no difference at all in our character, attitude, perception, mentality and relationship with God. People i.e. our friends or general people that know Us cannot say we have changed at all or tell that we have JESUS in our Lives..

The questions is why:

  THE OLD MAN IS NOT GONE, In fact if anything we are still negotiating with the Old MAN, still playing 50:50.  In essence, some of are still feeding our desires that is against the will of God for our lives, we still live a life of deceit, unfaithfulness, cruel, anger, wrath, disobedience, etc. We fail to repent and receive redemption. If in fact we do ask forgiveness we fail to practice a second chance of saying NO and putting repentance into actions and avoiding the things   JESUS hates and has encouraged us not to indulge in. WE KNOW right?

Accepting JESUS and being born-again does not mean the battle ends, that you automatically change or you miraculously become a changed person (something I have come to know with my relationship with God). As we are all aware any change takes a process, its takes  stages of different antidotes we are exposed to, to create a shift of mentality and attitude. Hence, Romans 6:6 encourages us that NKV: "Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be one with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin."  Now, if this is what must of us believe why are we still struggling with sin, if we truly believe the old man has been crucified with JESUS and the body of sin is dead... Why do some of us with our born-again claim still refuse to leave our old habits or precisely still living in it.

Three reasons WHY:
1)We are yet to actually receive grace and power to renew our minds
2)We are yet to admit we are not living the life God has called us to live
3) We are yet to stop feeding the old man and making a decision to accept deliverance and maintain it.

Colossians Ch 3: 8, NKJ,  But now yourselves, are to put  off all: anger, wrath. malice, blasphemy, filthy language, out of your mouth... ". My question is : How often do we practice this??

Vs 9: "Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds". Vs 10 "And have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of  Him who created him". Another question, How much time do we spend with God and his word to gain strength and have knowledge of him and his love?

What is meant by the old man? The old man is that which dwells in us that makes us rebel against the will of God for our lives...Which is to live a sinful life without  confession of sins, repentance of actions and lack of cultivating a strong relationship with him to stand and conquer all that is negative..
In essence, the old man could be that thing that drives you away from experiencing the presence of God and to have a sincere heart with him.

Number 33:55 NKV, makes us understand that " But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then it shall be that those whom you let remain shall be irritants in your eyes and thorns in your sides.  and they shall harass you in the land where you dwell." Note the word You, this suggest the responsibility lies on us to make a daily effort to drive out the old man. If we refuse to, we will reap the consequences. But, You and I both know we do not have to rely on our strength to do it or overcome,  there is grace, Mark 11-23-24.(simply google this).

Significantly, we need to understand that the the old man does not want to leave, inf act if anything it wants to grow and grow to kill the new man. But, you have responsibility to feed your soul, your spirit man to remain strong and say NO to the things that God rejects and it is not his will. I am still a work in progress, so you are not alone. Although, we are all at different stages in our lives and relationships with God, we should make effort to check ourselves and ensure we are living according to his will.

Ways  to Drive out  the Old Man.
1)1st Corithians Ch 5, Do not let the Old man negotiate with you, your flesh will negotiate with you, but you must stand firm,  believing the Lord God is your strength and you are doing it for a greater good.

2)Lets Kill the Old Man once and for all. Philippians 4:8. Whatever  things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report". We are encouraged to dwell on this things with a renewal of mind.

3) The application of the word of God and doing his word. We should not be hearers only, we should doers too. Mattew 13 (pls google it and read it all and let it minister to you).

4) You must also allow the Holy Spirit to help you. JOHN 16 (again google is there or you can simply grab your bible and please read it all).

In addition, you must not forget to allow God to reign in your heart, as JESUS encouraged us, when a man is delivered from an unclean spirit, he goes through dry places, seeking rest and find none... He says, he will return to the house which he came out from (Please read Matthew 12 vs 13 for the rest). Hence, the situation of a person is more worse than the first... God will continue to teach us.

Finally,  you will know your new man is growing when you begin to lose appetite in things you had pleasure doing and you cant bring yourself to do it any longer.

It can't be easy as we are all faced with different battles, challenges and situations but do not forget GOD is bigger than it all.

My mini testimony: I used to be a big malice keeper and I can make a decision  not to speak or say hello to people that offend me for years. Including my own mother and sister, it sounds funny we are close now. But, there was a time I was not a nice child to mum and I was quite a rebel.  But I am glad I am now longer that person, infact when people hurt me I will personally go and apologies and make peace. I cant stand malice FACT,  my SPIRIT rejects it.. I cant stand it,  even when the other party or person is in the wrong I will feel compel to make amends. I will tell you, that can only be GOD.

I also used to harbor alot of hatred and unforgivable, I was not happy child at all (in some cases, looking back around the age of 9 till about 11ish).  Back, then, I didn't even know how to smile, I was angry, went to bed angry, woke up angry and growing up in boarding school did not make things any better. Thus, people generally assume am a bully, but deep down, I was just confused I guess...

But I am no longer that person, I am not confuse, I still have my mouth ohh... (but I now you use it in a positive way, have actually forgotten how to insult except in a posh way.. lol). I smile every day and I am incredibly friendly (i like to think sha, I love making people laugh now, but I guess am more mature too and the spirit of God in me is more mature.. ) So, I am still work in progress but I have  come a long way to being who I am now and who I inspire to be... AMEN

SO.. pls feel free to drop anything on your mind and if you have any prayer point pls do not hesitate to let me know..

Am done Now.. Thanks for reading and stopping by.

God is LOVE, Love yourself and on others too..


Watch out for another inspiration story.. OUR LIFE, OUR STORY, OUR JOURNEY...... Be inspired.

Random Things......

Dear Readers,

How are you and I hope you had a fab weekend.
OK, so I decided to let you into my world in this post and I have always wanted to share random things. So, here we go.

1)As a child, I loved sniffing  my mum's armpit, I wouldn't go to bed without sniffing her armpit (Gross I know). It does not end there, I also loved sniffing my mum's clothes, as in it was so bad that I took one of her blouses to boarding house and I made sure I didnt wash the cloth lol (U dont want to know where we found it). Anyways, I stopped sniffing just last year, I sniffed my mum's clothes till I was a teenager and I started sniffinmy mine, mostly african wrapper sha. lol. Please laugh, and trust me people thought it was very weird,  to the extent it was suggested I needed deliverance.. people. Sha, I stopped cos I thought no way am taking this to my husband house. (Check this Scenario)
Hubby- Baby, lets get down on it...
Me-  "am like now, noo ohh  I want to sniff my wrapper..". Imagine that. lol

2)I hate okro, felt they choked me. When I was much younger I thought the black studs in plantain were insects. I would not eat it until it was all removed. In my younger days lol, I loved Fela and his music so much and I copied the ladies thus, I used to shake my bum to every tom, dick and harry ( ok, I EXAGGERATED abit). But, I would generally show this talent (so I thought), I would show this to people I generally like. So one day, I told this Uncle to carry him or lift me up rather, I was screaming and he said he wouldn't. Mum heard and decided to teach me some lessons. After the Hot  Spanks mehn I stop kia, kia -means fast....

3)I love smelling  powder and would go to the extent of tasting it or even it means chewing some... ( I am definitely weird).

4) I love toffee cakes and I love baking cakes and I can watch cartoons forever.

5) I love daydreaming, mehn I can daydreaming for a whole day and not get tired... As in never, all I need is my head functioning well and I go to places and create wonderful fantasises.... good ones though.

6)I am very close to my MUM, I am so close to my mum she knows everything about me. I tell her everything and she tells me everything. I am so close to her, we talk precisely everyday.

7) I love the camera, I am a picture freak... As in obsession type. I love posing and I love posing... lol

8) I am a documentary freak. If I have not mentioned well I am now... and if I have,  well I mentioning it again lol and I can read love novels..

9)Wore braces for 18months +  and I loved it... guess what colour they came in most times.... PURPLE..... I chose Purple... I miss my braces... (got teased with it and was called train tracks...).

Here are some Modelling/Posing  pics of me........

                                                            2011- Modelling

                                                                      2011

                                                         2009 Make-UP Shoot.. if u look closely, I was wearing BRACES.

2009- Make -Up Shoot  by Ara-make-up studious.

2011

2011.

2011

Brace face.... Make-Up Photo Shoot.

You are not allowed to copy any of these pictures without the permission of the Blogger/Owner. Doing this is illegal and unlawful...

Thank you and GOD BLESS......

Life in Stage ~ My Story~My Life~My Man Cont...4 Final Series.

Dear Readers,

I am back and I promise to relay the last of the series. I will then proceed to update you with other personal things in my life. YES, Some personal things lol. (Well, I am not promising it would be asap).

Please enjoy the final series of the story. Thank you.

I love my baby, my hubby, my soul mate, my friend, my companion, my crown, my best friend, my sweetest, my sugar plum plum, my earthly igwe, my earthly prince, my lawyer, my comedian, my mirror, my everything and more. Though it been 3 years since saying goodbye to Jonathan, I have gained alot in return, everyday I miss him like yesterday. I remember dancing to our first song and recalling what Jonathan said to me, "honey I will always be there and do right by you". He was, everyday he was always always there smiling, encouraging me and just being my friend.

Looking back on the journey with Jonathan and the prostrate cancer was not hard at all. Jonathan made it so easy for us, he told us all the most beautiful things even when he got the result and we felt the worst. He looked into my eyes and said we will beat this, we will beat this. I couldn't mutter any words and all I kept on doing was nodding my head. I wanted to believe it, I wanted to believe it so bad, but the doctor said the cancer had spread so much and there is little they can do. Even if he does undergo chemo there is no guarantee. Despite all, Jonathan still smiled, took my hand,went out and took all the family out on a dinner date, he made us all laugh and all I could do was remember those words he whispered to me on our wedding day.

We made a decision to tell the kids on a Sunday after a church service and we gathered in the sitting room, I knew I was suppose to be the strong one but all I did was hold my hubby's hand and watch him say those words to our beautiful children. They were all so shocked and asked all the questions, and Jonathan said well, if it is time to join my Lord then I guess it is. But, I will fight, I will fight, and I will fight this thing. I sat there numb and didn't say much, other than its time for lunch.

It was 3 weeks after telling the kids and you could tell they were scared of losing their best friend the man of the house. Jonathan had to tell me the things I did not want to hear or confront, he had to let me know he could go anytime soon. He was already getting weak, he had informed his work place and they were sympathetic and wanted to have a ceremony but he was getting too weak at this point. My baby said he wasn't taking any medications and that he was done with the chemo program. I tried to encourage him and he said, "baby, I have to live in peace without pain, I need to teach my boys to become the man they should be for their wives". I need to talk with my daughter to understand the qualities to look for in a man. If I stay here, I will be in agony and will not be able to teach them, love them and create wonderful memories to the ones we already have. I had no choice but to allow him  fulfil his wish.

He was given 3 months by the Doctor, and he made sure each day was memorable, he took the boys out and  spoke with them and gave them all his time. He also did that with our beautiful daughter. Two weeks before his departure, he sat me there. I was dreading it so badly, he woke up late in the afternoon  that day and he was incredibly weak, I could see his ribs, his bones were poking out (I hated that part). But he could still smile, he would still try to eat my food, crack jokes, praise God. He sat me there and went on his knees and smiled and said he was sorry, he was sorry that he couldn't do it all, he was sorry that he wouldnt see my wrinkles, he is sorry he wont go on holiday with me to Spain like we planned, he is sorry that he wont tickle me, he is sorry that he wont annoy me, he is sorry he wont hold my waist, he is sorry he wont  be in those occasions we went together, e.g. Nigeria Holiday, he is sorry he will miss the boys graduation, he is sorry he will not be there holding my head on his chest, he is sorry he wont be able to hold me his arms, he is sorry he wont buy my first walking stick (funny boy) and he is sorry that he got sick and didn't finish chemo and he is sorry that he didn't see us grow old together and finish this marriage race together. He just kept saying please forgive me, am sorry.

All I could do was cry, cry cry cry,cry, I didn't know what to say, I just knelt down and hugged him hard and wanting to speak but I could not. It was hard, it was hard watching my baby go, it was hard praying and getting angry at God and at the same time happy that he would see us through. It was not easy  many nights I would ask God why and and for healing, but God said it was time. I was so angry, how can it be time, this was not the plan? God said Jonathan wants to come home and I kept saying why would you want him to come home, why? God said that something Jonathan can answer.

I remember 3 days before his departure and me standing over his hospital bed, he had been there for a week. I asked him why he gave up and why he didn't allow God to heal him. He smiled and said, " baby, the love of my life, its my time". "I want to go".  I stood there, numb  how can you say that after all we have been through. He took my hand and said it is not you, it is not us, its not me. I guess, I feel like I have done my part and the rest is in his hands.

I looked at him and said my very last words he replied "Do not ever stop caring, do not stop being that wonderful Jonathan and always visit". I made sure he promised and he said he promised. That was it, he slept for 2 days and left on the third day.

To say it was hard is an understatement, to say I still do not hurt, is a lie, to say that I hate being in this position is a lie, to say I don't want  to give up is a lie. But, for some reason I find courage, I find courage from God, I find courage from our children, I find courage from what our marriage was about, I find courage from what we have achieved together, I find courage from our memories, I find courage from our testimonies together, I find courage from his values, his principles, his character. I look at everything and I am happy, am happy because he didn't leave us, he didn't stay away, he did his part and it was time.

I am happy that his children will become great, they will bear children that will make  positive impact and our generations will carry the genes of Jonathan and that makes me happy. That I would be part of history.
It is not easy to lose someone dear to you but you have to rise above the challenges no matter how hard, how unjust, how unfair, how sad. We have to be VICTORIOUS.. ALWAYS

This story was inspired by the Holy SPIRIT, it is purely fictional, any correlation to a real life story is purely coincidental. But, I want to say JESUS CARES, HE CARES BECAUSE HE FELT IT TOO. HE CARES BECAUSE HE CAN SEE THE PAIN, the pain of losing someone, the pain of not being able to hold or see that person or communicate with them.

I pray he will comfort us, he will see us through and help us to get through any pain in our hearts. I pray he will  pure his healing love in our hearts and help us to see the joy that comeS in the morning.

This was very emotional for me (I cried all through writing this, but I hope it inspires, encourages and uplifts you that there is hope.)

Ok.. back to the happy me.. lol. well I see u in few days in other post.

God is love, love yourself and on others too...

Note: Sometimes it is not that God does not heal, sometimes people in some serious states like Jonathan just want to go home, they just want to their part and go home.

HAPPY SMILES....

Life in Stage ~ My Story~My Life~My Man Cont... 3

Dear Fellow Blog Readers,

My sincere apologies for not updating asap, please forgive me. For anyone that has checked out for new updates and found none, I apologise. I have been quite busy as in busy, my sis wasn't feel well (now much better), meant I had to travel down to help. I was also preparing for my graduation (now done, will share the story and pics some time soon). Apart from that, I have been filling up job application, doing drving lessons etc. So I am determined to give u the rest of the story...

Please relax with a nice mug of Cocoa or Milo (milo hmmmmmm) and enjoy the story...


So I am incredibly grateful to Jonathan for all he has done even as I remember everything so clearly, he means a lot us as a family, a brother, a friend, a husband, a father, a servant and a son. I eventually got to communicate with the love of my life the day I came back home for holiday.  This was after 3years+ of studying abroad, Dad thought I was still doing medicine so he assumed I had few more years to go before I became a graduate.

I was 18 when I left for US and then 2,  came back home for holiday.  I had finished drama school, done internship and now working, yet nobody in my family apart from Aunty Joan and her family knew at the time. I  didn't know who to confide in back home, or how  to tell my dad or any member of family for that matter. I simply decided to go with a plan of coming home, playing happy families and then back to US where I will not set foot in Nigeria till whenever and that whenever in my dictionary was till Dad's death  and when he was about to be buried.. I know its mean but I never felt belonged in my family so I wont miss them neither will they miss me (That was the excuse at the time).

I had been in Nigeria for five days now and the whole excitement had died down, everyone that came to say hello was gone, attention was gone, and I was now simply Joan Kelechi Uzo no American Doctor tag. Even though, the attention and gifts I got from Dad and relatives where lavishing, I didn't feel excited within me at all. It was not that I felt guilty (for some reasons I didn't). I just wasn't  exicted(I guess part of me wanted to see Jonathan again, but it was a just a silly nonsense  so I brushed the feeling away). Although, I knew Jonathan was still working for us, I was yet to see him or meet him again, as he was the only sane person I sort of knew about.

Well, on this interesting Saturday afternoon, after helping with some chores Mum wanted me to do. Guess who I saw playing Ludo with my brother. Jonathan, (How happy was I, well, i didn't know I liked him at the time, but I knew I was just so happy seeing his face). So he was dressed in washed out stones jeans trouser with a blue shirt and playing Ludo with  Charles. As I approached the two of them, Bro Charles looked up and acknowledged my presence, he mentioned my name to Jonathan, asking him he was sure he had met his younger sis, the Doctor of the family. Jonathan looked up from where he was sitting (oooo he had nice long eye lashes, it still stings me in my belly till today). He looked at me with those beautiful eyes and he said, his exact "I am sorry, I have seen her but we have not been introduced". That was when he proceeded to stand up, introduce himself and shake my hands even before Bro Charles could say anything. That was it, I finally met him, I mean officially introduced (I was so excited, I could not do anything but smile..). That was when he said, "You have a sweet smile". (My head was going ding dong, ding dong, ding dong, whatttt...... he actually noticed my smile,  oooo... am happy).. (Then the compliment made me even more exicted, nobody apart from my Aunt in US and some co-workers complimented my smile, they tend to say my smile is beautiful and it makes them want to smile... But I didn't believe them 100% until my Jonathan said it... (I was not on cloud 9, I was on cloud unreachable).

Back to the meeting, my bro decided to leave us to chat as Jonathan was asking about my degree and US. He gestured towards walking to the balcony and I walked by his side (Jonathan was what I would call,a cool Guy..) If you have ever met a cool guy, you will get my drift and understanding..
We talked whilst walking and he kept on asking me about the weather, the food, the people, their culture etc, he seemed so excited and he would smile anytime I said a joke or told a weird. (Like the time a dog decided to run after me cos my bag caught the Frisbee that was thrown towards the dog in the park.. All I knew was a dog running toward me, and myself running for my dear life only to find out 20 mins later of sprinting that he wanted his yellow Frisbee that was caught in my black bag pocket.... It was so bizarre  and I cannot begin to understand how on earth the Frisbee was in my bag. It was hilarious too, everyone kept on point at  me toward the direction of the bag, suggesting  looking into my bag, but instead I thought they meant keep running, there is a safe place. Luckily, I was not hurt but I had never ran so much like that in my life. As I told him the story, I noticed his ears would grin up and down, and his eyes would pop out to show his interest and his smile was just so fixated on his lips that everything was listening to all I was saying. After everything, he laughed out so hard, he had to hold his belly (I love his laughter so much).

Since that day, Jonathan and I became inseparable, I knew his time-table, I knew when he was free, what he would wear, how he would smile, and how he would say hello to me.. After two months of seeing him and being his friend, Jonathan told me one Sunday evening, he had something special to share with him and he wanted to introduce me to his friend. I was quite excited and looking forward to when next he would tell me to come to out and he would drive me to see this friend of his. I didn't  know Jonathan was going to share the best thing that has ever happened to me, accepting JESUS to be a friend, a confidant, an intercessor, my helper, encourager, supporter, deliverer, comforter, healer and provider. That was the night he also shared his childhood stories with me (which is quite long and painful, I hope to share it soon) and how he was able to cope and make something of himself and support his younger sister. During, his hardship was when he remembered how his mum taught him to pray and he prayed and saw the hand of God manifest, that  day he refused to doubt his faith and his believe in what God can do.

He told me to meet with Jesus  that night, and to tell him everything I have been unable to tell anyone and to also let him know that he can come into my heart if only I open and receive his unconditional love. Even though, I asked him loads of questions etc, he tried his best to answer and told me not to be religious about anything. God looks at your heart Joan not your appearance, he sees what is hurting you and making you happy and only he can make every single thing work out for your own good without you stressing yourself or worrying. He is the I am that I am.

Need less to say, that night was a night that I could not hold anything back, I trusted Jonathan and I met with JESUS in my heart, I didn't say anything with my mouth, because I could not trust my mouth to utter anything, so on my bed, I opened my heart and said JESUS if you are real and you really helped Jonathan, come and help me and help my family. I receive you even though, I cannot see you, but I receive you with my heart. I didn't know when I drifted to sleep, but I will share a testimony, that was the first night since I was three that I didn't have any bad dream or nightmare. I just slept like  a baby and it was the best sleep ever, it was so peaceful, I cannot believe I woke up in the same position. I have been having peaceful sleep ever since, unless for the occasional times Jonathan comes to say hello and wipes my tears and encourages me to be strong for him, our love and our children...

So Yes, 20 years since meeting Jonathan, accepting JESUS, alot has changed, I didn't go along with my plan to America. I told Jonathan everything, the truth, and he didn't rebuke me or condemned me, he prayed with me, for me and encouraged me to tell Dad everything. I did, he was upset, but he didn't forsake me or reject me, instead he opened up to me and told me everything (I was definitively shocked), I prayed for him and he felt better. Every night before Jonathan and I got married we all prayed together as a family. My sis came back from the failed marriage, my eldest began to change  from her ways, Mum  took control of her insecurity and emotional issues, my twin sisters  understood what they were doing was not morally right and stopped. Dad decided to beg his friend  that died in the War and forgave himself, as he felt it was his fault he died,  and kept to his promise of helping  his family. He stopped having nightmares, Bro Charles well, he is still insisting he is not gay, he is married with 3 children and says all I saw was not real.. (I know what I saw and I am still praying for him). So yes, Jonathan and I got married after 3 years of courtship and our marriage was beautiful.

He was everything and more and two years into our marriage we were blessed with our first child, Blessing, we called her sunshine mostly because she brought so much love, joy and laughter into our lives. We had two more sons 18 months later named  Isareal and Seth. The boys were so adorable, Jonathan actually received all the names through prayer.

 Yes, we fight, and ramble, disagree, agree, but we never raised our voices over each other, we never disrespected each other in a anyway, we never lied to each other, or say anything negative. We decided earlier on in our marriage to have a points card, anyone who breaks any rule, gets a point, the one with highest point by the end of the year and on certain basis will need to change before the year runs out or the coming year. But, change in a positive, so if I shouted the most, or complained the most and got the highest points, I would need to  make  sure my new year started with a new attitude of less shout, complaints etc. It worked because Jonathan,once had the highest point of constantly being forgetful at locking the store room anytime he took something out or dropped something in. Hence, the constant, mice partying around the food, and me closing it all the time. He had so much point, he decided  he wont be needing a store room outside the house but instead we would sell the house and travel abroad.

That was what we did, 5 years into our marriage we migrated to the UK with Jonathan's work permit to transfer to another branch  to the UK.

I did not regret the decision, I promised my husband, on our wedding day, that where he goes, I would go, his God is mine, his place of worship is mine too, his family are mine own, his ideas are ours etc.

Life in the UK for the next 15 years was great, hectic, busy and we got on with it. We would travel every two years to Nigeria to ensure our children knew their culture and their people. We were average family and we were very thankful to God and happy. Until, the day, my husband came home and said he had being having pains in his groin, and I thought that was weird.

Please stay tuned for the Final Series.....

God is love, love yourself and on others too..

Life in Stage ~ My Story~My Life~My Man Cont...

Dear Blogsville Readers,

The continuation....

So  I have quite an interesting family, before actually seeing Jonathan on the day, My Dad had been talking to me about studying abroad and going to my Aunt Joan, we refer to her as Aunt J. Aunt J is mum best friend from school and they have been so close ever since, she is like mum twin. I got my name from her, only because Mum asked her she wanted a nice English name for her unborn child, and Joan happened to be the one she was talking to about it. She suggested why not call her my name, after all it is a nice name and its means God is Gracious.. And she added, according to Mum, you know God has been gracious to us since the war. Hence, Mum called me Joan...

I apologise for deviating, so yes Dad was very adamant for  me to study abroad and  attain a  qualification in Medicine  in order to be qualified as a Doctor. To be honest, that was not my passion, I know I bring home the good grades and teachers /personal tutors had recommended to  Dad that I am a strong individual who is capable of studying medicine and doing well at it. So yeah, they chose my future career without consulting me and how I felt about it..

 It was on a bright Saturday in Enugu, when Dad summoned me into the lounge and told me that I would leave for America in 2 weeks, so I should get started with packing and sort all I need. I didn't get a chance to protest at all. You see,  my Dad is a military man, he grew up in the army he was recruited just at age 16. He fought in the Nigeria Baifra War and worked for the Nigerian Army too. Hence, the strictness, whatever Dad says goes no arguing, no talking back, no  nothing... 

I am the only that Dad is actually proud of... My two older Sisters and Bro did not make any effort at all. I will tell you abit about myself, I am an introvert and because of that I am incredibly observant.

I know everyone's character and the secrets in my household and I am quick to tell how they will react or respond to any situation. May I also say I know of everyone's weakness too.

I will start with my Dad, as I mentioned earlier he is very strict and very direct, he is also loving, he gives us the girls hugs and handshakes my brother only during Christmas and New Year and I am actually glad he does this. Dad younger brother is also in the Military but never never does he show love like my Dad does.. So we are all grateful for the once a year hug and peck on the cheeks. Although, Dad is direct, he is generous and a good listener too, he offers good advice and helps out with homework etc. But he has a weakness, he hates the dark and he sleeps with a rod (I mean an iron rod, specially made for him) and talks to himself (as if he is begging for something). He sleeps with the lights on and never never ever stays in a dark room. He just hates the dark but nobody actually thought it was weird, because he tells us that light is essential in life, but I felt it was weird.  You know how I knew,Dad only goes to bed in his own separate room when everyone is sleeping. So one day,I couldn't sleep and I mean I could not sleep, so I decided to go downstairs this was when I was 6, I went alongside the corridors and the light in his room was on, I thought ok. I went about my business to get a cup of water,  I started this when I was five. I feel thirsty in the night, apparently it is a condition... (I doubt it, cos I have stopped now), most people in the household are aware  I wake up at a particular time to drink water (I hate bottled water, I just hate it.. so my water has to be fresh from the source). This night was like every normal night, I went downstairs, got the water, and was going to my room and I saw something that looked weird in my dad's room (I have never noticed this before, so I think all this started when I was about  6 years old). I went to check and that was when I knew he had issues, so here is a grown strict man sweating uncontrollably, holding  a rod with both hands, with his knees on the floor and begging for his life... 

I stood there for what seemed like hours, wondering why he was crying, sweating and begging for his life. I left the place, I didn't tell anyone anything.. The next day, I woke up again not for water this time, but to wee, and I remembered what I saw, I went towards my Dad room and I saw him again doing the exact same thing. I must say I have seen him do this for more than 12 years  since I was 6 (begging, holding a rod and sleeping with the light on). I knew it was weird and I was bothered but I didn't know who to tell in the family because they all seem to have issues. 

My eldest sister, Chinyere, was practically the street slut, every man in the street claimed to have slept with her. I confirmed this, whilst I was around 10,  Chinyere was 18 and relaxing with her friends (So I thought). All I kept on hearing were  females and male laughter with the ohh's  ahh's and  all sorts. I peeped through the door and I couldn't believe what I saw, I carried myself back to my room and wished I had not been curious..(Btw if you are wondering whether mum and dad were around or the other siblings, No, they weren't). I was the only one around the family household (remember our maids do not stay in the family home, they have their own home). Besides,  people generally think am not aware so they do what they feel like.. I myself do not make effort to make them think am aware, I play along to the fact that they think am dumb, stupid and all sorts, they refer to me as or tease me with.. (I knew where I was going and I knew I was smart).

My second sister, she is just so rude and insultive. Although, she is smart and yes she helped me when I was much younger with my Maths and English. She messes up during exams and gets low grades. She has a condition called Dyslexia. She is able to understand but she finds it difficult to write it down. And she gets rude and defensive to cover up and pretend  be to tough. She dropped out of school  and willingly chose to leave home just before I turned 16 to marry a dude. My Dad hated the idea but she made up her mind and she left. 

My Bro Charles Chukuemaka Uzo, the only boy in the family. I tell you he is nice, friendly, polite and cool. He is a queer. He just loves dudes, but wait for it, he did not know this himself at the time, I actually knew it for him. He has a friend that came to our  home  then every summer holidays after term to chill with him. This particular time, he slept over, my Mum told me to get Charles and as I was about to knock, I peeped through the hole, and guess what I saw...Charles was sniffing his friend yellow shirt and was doing something nasty at the same time. (Do you know why I peep before I knock, because in our households everyone has a secret and knocking startles everyone.. trust me I have been shouted at numerous times even beaten for knocking and opening the door). So, yes Charles plays tough guy and plays bad boy, not doing well in studies, smoking and jamming with the guys. But comes home and sniffs on his best friend  shirt whilst doing something nasty to it... (How rude)...

My two younger sisters, are so adorable,  am 3 years older than them. They are actually normal expect that they do stuff with each other and say they are practicing how to kiss.. I caught them once and asked what they were doing, they said we are playing a game.. Kiss and Tell. I was like ok, tell me more, but before I could join them, I must kiss both of them full on.. I asked them where they got this from and they said from TV. I was so perplexed and thought (this family is definitely crazy).

Now to the woman of the house, my Mum, she is so sweet, so supportive, so kind, and well mannered, church goer (am sure she knows she married a psycho). But, she never never never pays attention to anything, it is all about pleasing people. She is just so concerned about what people will say, so she must attend this party, attend that party and attend that club.. It is just so draining...

I knew she was a people pleaser,  the day, she told us off in front of her friends, most especially me.. Her words, Joan look at you, you are so boring, go and get make-up and do something with yourself and look as beautiful as your sisters. I looked around and just went upstairs, it was like the 100th time she said  it that month in front of her friends. I mean, she told  me in the past, in her own space, how she loves me and how she likes my plain look and how I am a good girl and I make her so proud. But in front of her friends or relatives she switches her tone and makes me look like a weirdo (I am not surprised all our cousins thinks am the weirdest one in the family.. if only they knew), and not just me she does to all the workers too, very rarely does she try it on my older siblings or in front of her husband my Dad, because they knew her. But,you will see her being bossy showing  off her authority in front of other people (so called prestigious friends).

These  are my family, they all  present a perfect family outlook and smile and portray happy family but deep inside they all have issues beyond measure. All I do is just observe and watch how they change into chameleon each time people come around. (Btw when we have guest Dad sleeps in Mum room with the light off but am sure he clings close to mum). I knew this because every time they slept in the same room, mum always says my arm aches, you rested too much on my arm..). I assume he had to hold on to something...

After that dinner encounter, I didn't see Jonathan again,  I sort of saw him drive dad into the compound but I am yet to set my eyes on him like I did before. I went for America, and I was glad I did. I told Aunt Joan  what I thought of Dad plans and she asked me if I wanted to do it, I said no. I hated medicine, I only did well at school because it was what they expected of me. She asked me what my dream career was and I said Drama. She said alright, drama  it is.. 

About Aunt Joan, She fled for America just slightly after the Biafra in 1970, her husband then a doctor told her to to flee if anything happened to him She did exactly that, he died and she didn't wait a second or attend the burial she took off with her two girls. Aunt J, settled in Chicago, worked as a maid  for  a retired Military Caucasian Man, who later married her and they lived together.

Hence, the mentality do whatever pleases you my child. Despite, agreeing to the arrangement Dad made, she said I will not force anyone to do what they do not want to do. (Considering I was an adult, I went along with my plan and that was when I actually knew what it was like to be happy).. I was actually happy, I felt free and    complete. It did not end there, I had to be real with myself and I knew the pain it would cause Dad if he knew that I broke his heart. This is  why I am grateful today Jonathan stood by me. He actually helped me through and I cannot forget the love of my life. The guy that was willing to put everything on the line for me. 

Please stay tuned for the Next Series..

God is love,  love yourself and on others too.

Life in Stage ~ My Story~My Life~My Man...

Dear Readers,

We are going on a journey with this story so stay excited and enjoy the story line. This article features the story of Joan Kelechi Uzo Amobi. It is a story of woman that lost her husband to the sickness of Cancer and her journey to healing and how she dealt with it all. She reveals the journey behind her story, her life and where she is today......

This story is one you cannot resists....

Joan Kelechi Uzo is the 4th female child born to the Family of Uzo...A family made up  of a hardworking Father, a supportive Mother and six children. She has two older sisters, an older brother and two younger twins sisters.
Her Story Begins:

Where should I start, I have so many to tell. I will start with how I met my soul mate Jonathan Chukuemaka Amobi. So.. I was 18 when I actually first saw him not talking to him but saw him. Jonathan as he is often called is a personal driver to my dad. He practically drives him everywhere, and from the information I have  gathered before actually talking to him, I knew he was 23, a graduate with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a personal driver. I only knew this from how dad brags about how hardworking he is and he is intention of saving  to go back to University to attain his Masters. He only says this to drive my siblings nut and make them see how useless their career path are compared to a common driver as he puts it.

I also know that Dad actually loves him and really loves him.. I will tell you why. In all the days of anyone hired to work for our Dad none of them has ever ever ever been allowed to sit on the Family dining table to eat dinner or anything for that matter. He makes sure the house helps etc know their stand in the family home and respect should be exercised. Hence,  the only place in the Family home they are allowed to come in contact with is the visitor's lounge where they stand on the passage to pass the message to the personal maids who will then leave a note at the note box close to the family sitting room. If Dad sees the note and wants to discuss further he will summon them to his personal office outside the family home, although in the same compound, you cannot enter the family home without permission or an emergency. The only ones that do enter the family homes are the personal maids that collect dirty clothes to wash. The rest of the chores we all do it.

In fact when I was 11, Dad changed the rules, personal maids where only allowed to collect the dirty clothes from  a  room outside the Family home  labelled wash room, where all the children will have to personally drop all their dirty laundry and label with their names to ensure no mistakes are made. At this time, Dad bought modern washing machines from abroad thus, made life easier for the personal maids. Besides, he is a military man with strong views on raising the children with firm hands and he will constantly remind us the reason why we have made maid is only  because they need the money for food, clothes etc  and he is employing them to provide for them and offer an alternative life. Hence, we should not take them for granted and assume they are slaves and around to please us.. In his words "the era of slavery is over, so make sure you treat them all with respect, if you break this rule, you will become the house help for a month whilst the house help will take your place.  And yes, he is not lying, he meant it. Our  2nd born tried it once and was greatly punished, she had no choice but to swap places with the house help called Amaka. She called Amaka a bastard when she did not  bring her ironed clothes on time, but she didn't know my Dad was around listening to his news. He heard the word bastard from afar and thought who to himself "what on earth" according him. He summoned both of them and asked what happened Amaka was already crying her eyes out and told of my sister Mabel and how rude she has always been to her. Dad did not even argue too much he just said you know the rules Mabel take your position now.

Since the incident we were all so aware never to treat our house maid or assistance as we often call them with disrespect. Like Dad said, they are only assisting us and are getting paid to better their lives. So in fairness, we had large number of prospective employees who wanted to work for Dad because they knew he treated his staff with respect and fairness and same was required of them. Word got around so fast, every house maid always came back to thank Daddy for making their lives better and anyone that knew about our Dad sort of respected us more  because we weren't spoilt rich kids (so they thought).

Back to my point, so you see from my Jonathan entering our family home showed he was very special to Dad. He always used Jonathan as an an example to demonstrate the importance of being ambitious and hardworking and starting from the lowest to get to the top.

I saw Jonathan for the first time in our dinning table and you should have seen my reaction. He was actually on the table, eating too and drinking our drinks... That has never happened as far as am aware, I looked well enough before making my reaction known, then  I saw Dad, Mum and Jonathan eating at the table and laughing about something. Just as well, we all knew amongst the kids there is now competition, Dad has a new favourite...

I will quickly tell you about my siblings before getting to Jonathan story...

Pls stay tuned for the Next Series....

God is love and Love on others too...

The Day He said Mama Part 2

Fast forward 3 years later, so much beautiful things have happened between myself  and Abraham. Getting to know him as brought nothing but joy, happiness, gladness into my heart. Although, we have been through our fair share of rocks, I have no doubts that God has been encouraging us,  because with every storm we have been through has come better and bigger solutions with determination  and boldness to fight and excel.

 In three years,  I have become a friend, a confidant, a sister, a mother, an encourager, a family and most importantly a wife. Our bond has grown from strength to strength and we are still growing.  Just in case you were wondering if those kids were his, they weren't. This is the story behind it.
A.B. kids are adopted from his cousin Kunle.  At a point, Kunle's marriage was falling apart, A.B. encouraged him to take a vacation with  his wife whilst their kids were staying at A.B's parents house.

Kunle took his advice and left his kids at the care of A.B and his parents whilst he made effort to save his marriage. Although, the holiday was  fabulous  and both made progress to work on their marriage during their   time away, things were looking up and the advice paid off (Kunle updated A.B when he called to ask about the kids welfare).

 But,  a tragedy struck, a tragedy that changed the lives of A.B, his cousin's children, the whole family forever. On their way back from the holiday, an accident on the motor way  caused  both couple to suffer serious health damages.  Despite, the help and support provided by the doctors, family were informed that Kunle and his wife  will be on supported machine for the rest of their lives.  It was a painful decision to make but they knew they had to let them go to rest.
This happened 5 years ago, it was a tough time for him because he blamed himself for the death of both beautiful people.

However, it did not stop there, A.B. made a decision to be a parent to both kids and being a parent was the only he could ensure he was there for them always.  Besides, he  knew how Kunle his closest cousin was proud of his kids and how he loved them, and A.B knew he was the only he could trust to replicate that care and love. This was how he fought the battle of fostering and adopting the children despite the odds and the negatives from law, family and friends. Most painful thing was dealing with the pain of also  losing his fiance at the time, who was suppose to stick up for him and be there. He truly indeed went through a journey and  his trust in God helped him to overcome, as he got all the strength, motivation, help, support etc only  from  lvoing and trusting in God.  I love my God even more  for keeping my A.B happy and content despite the trails. We been married few months now and I am a living testimony, I am  more than blessed. The joy of being a new mummy  to the kids makes me more  happy and I make  effort through the grace of God to be the best mom to them and more.

I once asked A.B. what he saw in me to ask me out and be his wife, and his response was, you would love me and my baggage and you would not judge me. I was like is that all, am sure there is more to me than that and he said well, u were my wife and I just knew it within me. I know they are so many reasons he married me, although he would put the kids first before his feeling. I think his aim was to do right by the kids and kids gave him thumps up and it has always been thumps up since.

FAST Forward 3 years  after our marriage.

I am proud to say we have been blessed with a  beautiful baby boy called Joseph, he is absolutely adorable and he has cousin Kunle eyes,. my cute lips and my eyebrows, but has  his daddy ears,  hands, legs and feet. He is definitely going to be a strong man just like his dad.

 Joseph just like most babies, cry and whinge, and I absolutely love every minute of it because I adore babies. I never get tired of pampering him, rocking him to bed, waking up by his side, feeding him and changing him,  but I cant be selfish I have to share him with his dad too.
A.B loves changing him into sport clothes, and love playing aeroplane with him, lifting him up to the sky just like he does with most kids we know. He adores his son and he is still a perfect husband and a dad to our three gorgeous children.

Joseph nick name is J,  I noticed when J was 18 months,  his speech was not clear and he found it difficult to speak clearly compared to other kids. I told my family about this and everyone said he will come true that all kids are different. But deep down, I knew something was not right, I told hubby about my issues, he reassured and we decided to see a specialist. I believe in God,   and as usual , I exercised my faith and  communicated my concerns to him and I believed him for spiritual, emotional, mental, physical support and direction.  Despite the fears of the unknown,  I kept on holding to this verse in the bible " Mark 11 vs 23-24. I also knew whatever the specialist said, I would hold on to Matthew 19 vs 26.  Myself and Hubby still had our faith and we said our prayers including the children too.

The report was confirmed that J  officially has a condition that  hinders his speech ability causing it to be difficult for him to alter any words. In essence, he might not be able to speak, although he makes sounds, he cannot speak. It been 2 months now and I still do not know how to react to the response and tests, we have been told about all sorts of help available and support there are for him to lead a normal life. However, the pain of not hearing my own son speak and call me mama hurts more than anything. But I still put my fears before God and deal with everything  by his grace.

Six Years Later.
 Our marriage is still standing and we have another addition to the family  baby Zoe, she has the rosiest cheeks, she is light in complexion like me and has A.B. gorgeous eyes. She is two years old now and her brother  J, is almost 8. It is busy in our house today,  as we are preparing for  the celebration of A.B. grandma who is turning 90. Wow, that is massive mark, she absolutely adores all her grand and great-grand children and we all love her.
 A.B and myself are still very much in love and   I thank God for him everyday because he has done all he said he would do as a husband. There were time in the past, I didn't think I could cope with J situation,  constantly  seeing everyone in the play ground communicating  but not my J, brings tears and pain to my heart. A.B. has always been encouraging me and encouraging us, He would keep his own pain to listen to how I felt, and I knew he was hurting too but we kept on smiling. Although,  J's older siblings could not understand at first but once they did, they were so protective of J and made sure he felt among no matter what. This made life much easier and with the determination and support from the family and God we are living a normal life and making the most of it.

Back to Grandma birthday preparation, we wanted Mama as we call her to have the best birthday so we suggested  all the great-grand children should  do something special for their Mama. I was in charge of organising that bit and I made sure all the great-grand kids did something truly special. Some had arts drawn for mama, some had songs written, poems, video etc. My J, decided  to play the piano, that what he loves and wrote a song for his Mama. He  adores his Great-Grandma because she could sign language with him, Mama learnt how to sign language in order to communicate with her closest friend who had an accident that  affected her speech.

The Birthday Scene.
All the great-grand kids have been told to gather in a particular room to relax and get ready for the birthday show.
J as usual was practicing with his piano, when he stood up to look outside and saw bubbly our little puppy drowning in the pool in our backyard. He tried to get everyone's attention as usual most children did not understand his distress. He attempted to get me on our special phone that shows red sign and makes a beep noise when press the call button his pressed from his phone.  I didn't see it because I mistakenly left in the bathroom. I have never done that before, I take it everywhere with me.

J, could not get through to me and did the only thing he thought was alright to do by jumping through the window to save bubbly, he jumped from a 1st floor to the ground floor to save bubbly, he hit his leg hard on flower pot and I tell u I heard the loudest scream of my life. Everyone in the room stopped for a second and we saw the kids running downstairs telling their parents, J, jumped through the window and how they tried to stop him but it was too late. I stood there for what seemed like hours to absorb the shock that it was J, and he fell, and he is lying there helplessly, he could be dead, or broken his ribs, his spinal cord, but the shock of all he screamed MAMA. I couldn't get my head around it.

It been 8 days after Mama's  birthday and it was a fabulous day apart from J and bubbly accident. Both are fine and are doing well, bubbly was saved by J, despite breaking his leg, in the mist of the shock, he got up quickly  to save our only pet. I cannot thank God enough that my own son J, is now getting speech therapy to improve his speech abilities. He can now call Mama, Papa. Zoh. He actual says AMEN,  he couldn't believe, we could not believe and we are still getting through the shock that he his actually communicating.

I am lost for words but I am thankful beyond measure that I never gave up my faith during this trial and I never gave hope that God love is real. I know this new journey will be challenging but I will never forget his promise.  I held on to those verses and they proved me right. I am forever grateful and forever faithful to my God and I encourage you to do the same.

It is true things happen, things beyond our control or means or power, we fret, we worry, we get angry, we blame, we hate and we regret. But, it is never  ends there, there is more, God is more, he is more in every single thing. You might not see it or know it now, but HE IS. Please be upset, express yourself, get angry, feel the pain but know that it does not stop there, he is and will be for you if you open your heart for him to heal and help.

This is a fictional story  inspired by the Holy Spirit, it is suppose to represent our everyday lives, struggles and faith in God. Any correlation  to anyone you know is purely coincidental.

 I want to encourage you,  that he is still in the miracle business. I say business because our business is our personal affairs, and he is still into our personal affiars and we all know we need a miracle one way or the other. So, Please hold on to your faith and he will come through no matter what.
 I pray Jesus will give us grace to be patient.

God is love, love yourself and on others too.

The Day He said MAMA

Dear Readers,

Exclusive story !!!!

It was a cool bright day on a Saturday morning  and I was looking forward to this day so much. It was very much anticipated with so much excitement and  fun  the day will bring. Today, I am spending time with my adorable two nieces and one nephew. I absolutely love them and they mean so much to me and although they are my eldest sister kids, they seem part of me and they see me as their second mummy and every 4th weekend of the month I spend my entire weekend with them. Sometimes we all just go out as family to anywhere the children wants. The eldest Remi is 8, Romi is 7 and the youngest Nathan is 4...

Today we are going to the beach and am looking forward to it, have packed all the sandwich, the drinks and table cloth and everything we would need including first aid box just in case.. Nathan is very clumsy with things so the first aid box comes in handy and why forget the camera the Kodak moment is special to me (winks).

I got to my sister house at exactly 9:30 in the morning, everyone was so excited including me and all I did with the kids was simply scream out of excitement..  This is something we have been planning for weeks now, so the excitement has been building up and you  can almost imagine its going to be a fun memory.
Helped to get the kids ready, drove by car and we got to the beach at 11:00, my sister's husband in-law made sure the kids understood the rules and regulations about the beach, water and the sand and the safety nitty gritty things etc, he likes to be extra (rolls head).

So we started the day, building sand castles, took a break and chased each other around the beach, took pictures, relaxed and  chilled with more ice-lemon. We resumed the sand castles, cos the kids loved how strong my castle stood so we decided to keep going with the castle  building.

Prior to this point, I noticed a guy not so far from us, playing with kids which I thought was his, he looked great,  I thought well, nice body, Oh well I know I cant have u but I can still admire.. (chuckles). This thought happened 3 hours ago and I had moved on.  However, as I started to build another blocks of castle, I noticed a shadow blocking my sunny view and heard an unfamiliar male voice.. In my head I was thinking (Who are you???, can you not see am busy?). He was saying something I couldn't make out, I looked up and what I saw was a different sight. At this point I was thinking where is the sun, not knowing he blocked it with his broad shoulders..

So I knelt there thinking am sure this was the guy I saw 3 hours ago and I looked at him, thinking what do you want.. I proceeded to speak but no words came out. I looked down and then up and just didn't say anything, he said  Hi, I am inviting you with your kids to take part in a competition?
Me- HUH!!
Guy- Do you want to play in a competition?
Me-What??
Guy- My name is Abraham, you can call me Ab(extending his hand for handshake).
Me- (thinking who does he think he is, about am Abraham, you can call me AB... like are you kidding me??  Erm what do you want??
Guy- I don't want anything, I am simply asking if you would like to join me  in a competition on the beach. Myself and my children want to see who can build the strongest castle and we wanted children verses adults. So I thought I ask you cos you look like you are having fun, compare to other single mothers on the beach today.
Me- What?????? ok AB or Abraham, I think you should approach someone else. I am not interested in this game. Thanks for asking.
Guy- Have I said anything rude.  It is just a competition not a game per say.. But it was not my intention to annoy you.
Me- (At this point, I concluded that he is a nutter and I just couldn't kneel there squinting my eyes and talking to this arrogant annoying guy,that all he is thinking about is himself, kmt who cares about competition.) Kids, UP, we are going to find another location.
Kids-( Chorus), lets play this game, it going to be fun.
Remi- Besides we will beat you adults.
Me- kids stop it, there will be no competition, we will simply find another location and just play and build our own castles.

I stood up, took our sands buckets and  mini shovels and ignored the kids sulking faces and I  ignored him too and one of the kids said Aunty Mimi, this is not fair. That was when he held my arm gently and looked apologetic at the fact that he assumed I was a single mum. He apologised.
Guy- I am have approached you  in a wrong way, haven't I?
Me- Yes, and your point??
Guy- It was arrogant and insensitive of me and I apologise for that, can you please forgive me and not get upset.
Me- Ok. Its cool.
Guy- Really!!
Me- Yes really!!
Guy- So why are u still tense,  and your knuckles white at clenching the buckets tightly.
Me- (looked at myself and laughed, I looked like a child trying to protect herself with every form of items).
Me- Me I must admit am not happy at all with your attitude and your way of approaching people. But I understand you are arrogant and that you need to feed your ego... laughing
Guy- I guess am forgiven then.
Me(Nodding my head). Maybe..
Guy- Are you for real... I need your forgiveness if not I will feel bad.
Me- Ok.you are  forgiven not because you begged but because I love JESUS... and I would have forgiven you either way.
Guy- I do apologise.. do you mind if we squash this and I try over again.
Me- (Rolling my eyes)... Ok if you want to!..it does not matter.
Guy- I want to and it does matter, I want to create a better impression... besides my kids are beginning to look at me funny and think why am taking too long..
Me-Where are they??
Guy-They are with my sister, just over the shade.
Me- So why didn't u ask your sister.
Guy(looks shy),,, erm I guess I wanted a competition.


So am back to kneeling down and playing with the kids... and laughing.. I hear male voice, this time around I was familiar with the voice. Before I could look up and say hello, he knelt beside me..
Guy- Wow. this looks awesome.. You are really talented.
Me- Really, am I?? Who are you please?
Guy- I am sorry, my name is Abraham, you can call me A.B. and your sound castle looks animated.. too real.
Me-  (Making sure am not  blushing).. Thanks A.B. My name is Adewunmisola. You can call me Mimi.
Guy- You look very busy, but I wanted to know if you are free and would be interested to play some sand building game with me and the kids.
Me- I have to think it about it.
Kids chorus- YES..... WE WILL..

We all did, and had a fab time too. Abraham kids are so funny and adorable... I wondered why he was single, but decided to kill the thought and not ruin the moment. So it was a lovely day, we made new friends, the kids had fun. I forgot to mention he has a six year old girl called Rachel, and seven year old boy called Nathan, How weird... he is nephew name sake... The kids got along well and we all had a Kodak moment together lol. By the time, I got to my apartment I was knackered and Icouldn't believe what a day it had been, woke up feeling what a nice bright day and not knowing what the day had in store for me....


Fast forward 3 years later.....
To be continued...  In the next series.

Am BACK

Dear Readers,

I am back and I have been away for a while due to some serious academic duties :). I am through now and I am grateful, glad and happy. All Glory be to my Awesome sweet King ;). Besides, I also would like to apologise to anyone that checked for new posts and has found none. My sincere apologies. I am intending on making the extra efforts of now updating my blogs more to offer more inspirational stories. Please stay excited, attached and watch the space... lol

God is love.. Love on others too..

Life In Stages - Scenario on The Journey-

Dear Readers,
The story on the journey.

Man – So people are making it, God when is it my turn. When are you going to lift me up and make me shine ohh.. when oh when.

God- I have plans for you, perfect ones, I will take you places , show you wonders, inspire you and make you a living testimony for my Kingdom… I will  and I stand by words.
Fast forward 5 years later.

Man- So God this is oh,, I am ready to go NOW… enough is enough.

God- Son, people need you here, you are still very much needed here and I have plans for you here.

Man – hehe, you have plans abi, plans you have been telling me before and  after I graduated. I am still using the same GSM, still wearing the same everything, still sharing one room with 3 brothers, still hustling and selling pure water and lifting boxes…. So this is your plan abi.. Thank you very much, I have made up my mind am going abroad…  I want to go ohhh…

God- Son, I know its tough, it is not easy, it is not always easy sometimes to watch my chidlren go through tough times, but I am sending a mesage through them, I am God of signs and wonders and I want  people of the world to see my works through you. This trial is only for a moment of time, it will pass, you will forget all these struggle. The journey is still ongoing, this is not the end.

Man-  ha God,  it is the end ohh, incase you did not know, going abroad  is the New Heaven ohhh… I want to go to heaven ohh.. the journey ends there ohh..

Jesus- brother, God’s time is the best, it will surely come to pass, his promises regarding you and your family.

Man- Jesus, thank you ohh, very much…I appreciate your support. As we all know, you are my intercessor, so pls keep praying for this visa process to work ohhh….

Holy Spirit- Friend, the journy is not far, we have big plans for you. You don’t have to worry. I will be your strength, when you are weak. I will be your confidant when you have none. I will be your pillar of comfort, when you are weary. I will look out for you, protect and guide you. I will stand in for you, just wait a little longer.

Man- Wow… all these do me to stay a little longer in the land. Thank you very much, infact, (postrates on the floor).. I appreciate it. Let me think about this offer ………………….(ponders on it for a while). Have thought about it, Holy Spirit you are kind, sha incase you didn’t know, I am going to the New Heaven, there are plenty of holy people  there… I will be fine.

God, JESUS, Holy Spirit – Son, brother, friend, so your mind is really made up?. It is abroad or nothing.

Man- Yes ohh, it is the New Heaven or nothing ohh. I am too tired of this land and its whalala. I can’t take it any longer. Unless a miracle occurs in this country that will change my life for the best.(God, JESUS, Holy Spirit, lights up, he is beginning to have a change of heart, he is regaining his faith again..this is good, your perfect  thoughts and perfect plans towards him will begin to unfold before his very own eyes).
(Few mins later)

Man- hmmmm forget this miracle business jare. miracle for this country that one na impossibility +impossibliyt= double impossibility. In fact miracle go see the situation and commot quickly. Say wetin, the only miracle me I want na for that Visa to work ohh…..God I don talk my own, seeing that I am your faithful servant and you promised me that anything I ask for you will do,  I heard it clearly.. So, abeg ohhh do your part.

(Discussion amonsgt the Holy Trinity)
God- he has made up his mind, I promisied him so I have no choice. If only he knew what I am saving from, the HIV/AIDS he will contract in 3 days  and he won’t even know it, the family member he wants to meet with, in the UK is  not his family member, he is working for a drug dealer that will lure him to partake in an initiation that will supposedly protect him from being deported. He will get himself with the wrong crowd and in two weeks he will find himself in Nigeria and commit suicide because of regrets, pain, bitterness etc. This journey is an endless road with no hope and future.

JESUS- if only he  exercises  a bit more patience.

Holy Spirit- He was faithful servant to you with a promising attitude, he did all you told him to do and carried out all the tasks with a faithful heart. He had a geniune love for you and he still does. I propose we make one last thing.

Next Day(In the Morning, the day to collect Visa)

Man-Mamma, Pappa, ( with 3 brothers, 4 sisters and an Uncle gathered together) I have something to say, I have prayed and sought God, He said No, JESUS said No, Holy Spirit said No. But, I have made a decision to let God will be done. (Family chorus  Noooo, why, why, why now, why).  He took me on a journey and I don’t want to go through it in real life. It was a long dream, but pls thank him for me because am grateful he gave me one more chance.

2 Days Later
Phone rings, Company calls his phone

Man- oohgah oh na who dey call me ohh, I hope say na good news ohh, (sarcastic). Hello, who is speaking.

Caller- Hello, Good Afternoon, I am calling from Health and Science from Autrialia, your CV and personal details was forwarded to us from an unknown source.

Man- Good Afternoon ( no bi oyinbo be this, why dey go dey call me ohh, nah wetin I don do ohh, na who want kobahlise me now, I know wan trouble, I no be yahoo  yahoo boi, Holy Spirit speaks calm down and listen).

Caller- Hello, Are you still on the line?

Man -Yes, I am. I am listening.

Caller- We are calling to discuss your availability to start a job position we have for you, We are  part of an international company, with our headquarter in Australia, Sydney. We specialise  in health and science and we are currently building hospitals and research wards in five countries in Africa and Nigeria is one of them. We would like to offer you a position as a Project Management Officer that overlooks our building project currently taken place in Nigeria, Ibadan. We need you immediately to meet with our current Manager that will explain the proceudre to you and your requirements including training.

The company will take full reponsiblites of any financial suport you will need, we have a company house and company car awating you in Ibadan and anything you need will be made note of and on the company expenses. If you have any dependents', we will also cater for their expenses and everything that concerns them.  We like to take good care of our staff and their families, we believe a happy staff is a happy employee that will help the business to keep thriving.

This is not the end, once the project is finished, and based on  job well done, we will offer you a permanent position as one of our key managers that oversees the researh post  and  you will automatically become  a shareholder in  the company. There are many more opporunities we offer, please let me know your availability and we will offer you double  of your current salary, if  you so wish. So can I confirm when you can start?

Man- (still dazed, shocked, surprised), mouth opens, no words comes out

Caller- Hello, hello  Are you there?

Man- Yes I am here, errrmmmm yes I guess Ican start, when do you want me to start?

Caller- Can you start today?

Man- What??

Caller- Once we have your consent and availablity, we will process your application and send you current details. In the mean time we want you to visit our current office to process this information and get your personal belongings  to officially start Next week.. we know it is a short notice, but you are our only option.

1 month Later

In his office
Man- WOW…. God so this was your plan all this time, you really do have perfect plans for me after all. I am travelling next week with my own legal passport.. I am still dazed and forever will be shocked, but I will not keep silent of this testimony oh… Miracles still happen..
The purpose of the scenario is to get us thinking on one or two thing that GOD is still in the miracle business and still doing wonders, and if we already know about it, pls pass on the message learnt. It is very easy to get carried away from the troubles of life, but God listens and he knows… He still a miracle worker, so pls dont give up and hold on to your miracle..


Story inspired by the Holy Spirit.


You are welcome to share your  thoughts and what you have learnt.


God is faithful, love yourself and others too.


Note: Any correlation to  a real person is pure coincidental.

Life in Stages -Honesty- Series 1

Dear readers,

I have often wondered why some people find it difficult to utter a word of honesty and why others find it easy to be honest. Generally, I know some people think humans are not capable of being honest and we lie most of the time. The thing is I am sure there are people that are honest, and yes maybe they have lied in the past but they are actually honest and practice transparency.

So what does it mean for an individual to be honest, for me it takes three steps to be honest.

a) It involves making a mental decision to aim to tell the truth at all times (even though sometimes we forget stuff).

b) To understand that telling the truth  can be done and it is done by having integrity and disregarding anything such as white lies or black lies or little lies etc.

c) Ultimately, the grace of GOD is needed to discern the purpose of telling the truth at all times and being honest in your heart.

Obviously, there are many other factors but these for me are the key ones, I know some people might say it is impossible to tell the truth, I say it is not. It is not because you make a mental decision to do whatever it is you want. Although, there are instances where people don't tell the truth but don’t lie either, ( i think it is often referred to as diplomacy). I love saying things on how it is in my mind and I love being honest, I believe it setting a different standards but it does not guarantee the best life on this earth either because people will still take you for granted and all sort.  Nevertheless, our treasure is not here but in HEAVEN.. SO I say whatever am doing is for God not for many and I see the significant of it is more than the evil.

However, I have found out that in this life most of the time we do not like the truth and we rather much prefer it when people lie. It amazes me why we would prefer lie than integrity but the world is full of evil so there you go.  I will mention that, when we lie it creates more pressure to think of another lie to cover the previous track which am sure is mental work, having to constantly recall what you have said before can be pretty difficult yet we can given a medal for it all...

God will help us but we also need to desire his help.

Note: This is one of many series.

Please let me know your views on honesty.