Describe a phase in life that was difficult to say goodbye to.
Lifetime experience
Sitting at the table with my youngest daughter, Akuoma, as I encourage her to eat while reflecting on my journey as a dad of two is a profound experience. Life moves so fast; my teenage years, when I was single and focused solely on myself, seem like a distant memory. Back then, I felt free, rich in possibilities, and unencumbered, always yearning for more with no one to worry about but myself. At a point, I couldn’t let go of my single nature but Life truly unfolds while we are busy pursuing other things, shaped by the phases and circumstances we encounter.
My childhood was filled with love, kindness, and affection—rich in lessons that may not have appeared glamorous at the time. Each life phase comes with its challenges and unforgettable memories that linger. I recognize the instinct to make decisions, a spark I also see in my first daughter, Omalicha. It’s a natural progression, one I too embraced.
Parenting is a lifetime experience ❤️
Desires may remain insatiable, but with a mindful spirit, we can navigate them in pursuit of improvement. Often, the wisdom we acquire comes later in life. Adulthood brings a blend of responsibilities and the freedom we seek. At times, we find ourselves yearning for advancement or caught up in the euphoria of our pursuits.
In adulthood, I discovered that my happiness deepened with the desire to have children. That’s when my beautiful daughters entered my world. They are loving and joyful and at times challenging, yet every moment is invaluable. Being a dad and a husband is the most rewarding role I could have imagined.
So here I am, doing my utmost to ensure my daughter has her lunch, even if it involves sharing from her plate something I could not imagine as a single adult yet it’s an experience I would love to have a lifetime.
If you could be someone else for a day, who would you be, and why?
You are your experiences
Rolling on my bed at midnight, I find myself weighed down by an overwhelming tide of thoughts that kept sleep at bay. It’s been two weeks since I lost my job, and the heaviness of being reliant on a single source of income has proven to be a painful reality. My mind races with worries about how I’ll manage my bills and what the future holds for me and my loved ones.
In moments like these, it’s hard not to feel like our circumstances define us, yet deep down, I know we are all unique individuals shaped by our experiences. If given the chance to choose our paths without limitations, many of us—myself included—would likely strive for versions of ourselves that feel more complete and fulfilled. I often wonder, wouldn’t you want a better version of yourself too?
This leads me to ponder a poignant question: If I could be someone else for just one day, who would I choose to be? In light of my current situation, I hesitated to even confront this thought. But in this moment of sleeplessness, I’ve decided to use this time to reflect instead of retreat.
I am my experiences and thoughts
Yet, here I am, embracing the fact that my identity is rooted in everything I’ve encountered. And so it is with you. While I may not cherish many of my past experiences, I wouldn’t trade my life for another, knowing too well that I can’t fully appreciate someone else’s journey without understanding their struggles and victories.
I choose to become a better version of myself, recognizing that I hold the power to shape my future—something I’m only beginning to discover now. It’s all too easy to envy what we see in others: their success, their beauty, their power. We can overlook our own resilience and strength, forgetting that the challenges we’ve faced have made us who we are.
We are not lesser than those we idolize; rather, we are heroes in our own right. The trials we’ve survived could have overwhelmed many, yet here we stand, ready to forge ahead. I’d choose to be me any day, continually seeking to grow richer in spirit, healthier in mind, happier in heart, and better in every sense.
As a teenager, nothing feels more alluring than the freedom of adulthood, the sweet escape from the watchful eyes of parents and older siblings. I can see this yearning in my six-year-old daughter, who often whispers to me, “Daddy, I wish I were 12.” It’s a heartfelt sentiment that reflects a natural stage in life. Many teenagers, having completed secondary school and entering the early days of puberty, experience a profound awakening of self-awareness and a fierce desire for recognition. It’s as if they are convinced they possess invincible superpowers, capable of conquering any challenge that comes their way. I, too, was swept up in that exhilarating tide.
Thank you for your resilience!
To my younger self, I would gently say: take a moment to breathe and savor the journey. The excitement to fully embrace life sometimes led me down paths of reckless decisions, choices for which I still bear the consequences today. I often find myself reflecting on my missed opportunities, especially regarding my education. Dropping out due to financial hardship is a regret that lingers, a reminder of the barriers that once felt insurmountable.
To my teenage self, I urge you to embrace life’s moments but to do so with mindfulness. I understand now that the balance between enjoyment and caution is vital. My own youthful struggles, compounded by a strict upbringing and pressing economic challenges, often meant that I had little room for enjoyment—experiences that I now wish I had allowed myself to embrace.
Trusting yourself is a precious gift. I know how easy it is to seek validation in others, and I too fell prey to that vulnerability. My sincerity and openness sometimes left me exposed to others’ intentions. I realize now that believing others would reciprocate my kindness was a lesson learned through hardship—a truth that still echoes in my life today.
Finally, I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to my younger self for persevering through every challenge and for the tapestry of experiences that have shaped the person I am today. Thank you for your resilience and for laying the foundation of the journey I continue to walk.
There’s something about feeling uninterested and unstimulated that completely throws me off balance. Life has a way of introducing elements that bore me to tears, and I often find myself trying to avoid them. But let’s face it: circumstances are not always on our side. As an introvert, I’ve come to realize that I may not be the most exciting company, especially for those whose spirits clash with my energy.
Trivial subjects turns me off.
Stagnation at any level of activities really gets under my skin. The sensation of not progressing, of being stuck, drains the vibrancy out of my life. It’s like living in grayscale when I crave technicolor. And let’s talk about the grind of doing what you dislike just to get by! Routine tasks, especially those that lack any spark of creativity or joy, make me question my sanity. Yes, work can be demanding and challenging, but that’s part of life’s necessary balance especially when your an employee. However what truly terrifies me is staying unemployed for considerable length of time. the thought of sitting idle at home, day after day, with the knowledge that tomorrow holds nothing different. That thought is simply stifling.
But the worst of them all is what I call small talk. Conversations about trivial subjects? It’s a surefire way to bore me to tears. I struggle to engage in such conversations because of its effects on my sanity. I enjoy talking, despite my quiet nature, but I come alive when I’m with the right people, discussing topics that genuinely enrich my life. I crave depth and meaning in conversation; it’s what fuels my spirit and keeps the boredom at bay.
Water is essential to life—colorless, tasteless, and readily available, yet vital for our existence. It’s my go-to drink without question. We are advised to meet specific daily water intake requirements based on our age, environment, weather, and level of activity; typically, 6 to 8 glasses is the target.
Water! my go drink without question.
No matter when you choose to drink it, water serves its purpose exceptionally well. Whether it’s first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, after a satisfying meal, post-workout sweat, or during a heatwave, the benefits of water are undeniable. Nothing can rival the satisfaction of a cool glass of water after an intense treadmill run. While we may use water for various reasons—cooking, bathing, cleaning, or swimming—its refreshing quality after a workout is unmatched. Water is not just important; it is indispensable.Water is life.
Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you?
Nation that lack patriot
The concept of expressing devotion and support for one’s country is indeed a noble aspiration. Embracing the established laws, regulations, and services is essential for the fabric of any society. As citizens, patriotism is not merely an expectation but a reflection of our free will and commitment to our homeland.
It is important to acknowledge that no child is inherently inclined to dislike their country; rather, it is the prevailing circumstances and the influence of governmental institutions that shape their sense of patriotism. As someone who has cherished his country of origin since childhood, I have experienced firsthand the challenges of economic hardships and limited access to basic social amenities. Despite these difficulties, my desire for a better future for my country remained strong.
However, as I matured, I became aware of the disconnection between the government and the people it governs. Things I had learned about in school and the realities of my community, state, and region. The support and expectations from my country seemed scarce, leading to a gradual decline in my sense of patriotism. The sacrifices of our past heroes appeared to be overlooked, and institutions designed to safeguard citizens sometimes appeared to act in opposition to their well-being.
I have long believed in the idea that “youths are the leaders of tomorrow,” yet, after four decades, it is disheartening to see a continuity of leadership that does not reflect the vibrancy and potential of our youth and the well-being of its citizens
I maintain that true patriotism can only flourish in an environment where a state honors its heroes, protects its citizens, and treats every individual with equality and respect otherwise the people show their noncompliance and indifference. For a nation that lacks patriots is a dying nation.
In every functional society, a framework of laws and order forms the backbone of how individuals interact and coexist. These rules shape our behavior, maintained by governments and social institutions that are entrusted with their enforcement. The ideal is simple yet profound: everyone, including those in power, is bound by the same principles and must uphold them fairly and resolutely. When citizens respect these laws, a society flourishes.
Broken laws=broken society!
Yet, the saying goes, “Ignorance is no excuse for the law.” But what happens when the laws themselves breed inequality, marred by corruption, impunity, and bureaucratic red tape? People often find themselves stuck in a cycle, breaking the very laws meant to protect them, not out of enjoyment, but out of frustration with a faltering system.
While there can be no justification for legal transgressions, it’s crucial to understand that the true strength of law and order is measured by the well-being of every individual it governs. Each broken law often highlights not just a personal failure, but a societal one. Yes, we all stumble into unintentional offenses now and then.
Ultimately, without law and order, the foundation of any sane society crumbles. It’s a delicate balance, wherein each individual’s actions and intentions matter significantly, shaping the world we live in.
Are there any activities or hobbies you’ve outgrown or lost interest in over time?
Change; only thing constant.
Losing interest in something is distinct from outgrowing it. Everyone experiences the passage of time and changing circumstances. As I grow as a person, my life continues to evolve through various processes that are yet to reach their final stage. When it comes to hobbies and activities I enjoy in my free time, many factors come into play.
Outgrown, you say? I find that my interests shift because of circumstances. Our preferences can change for many reasons. As a teenager, I loved playing cards, soccer, and Ludo. I had the luxury of time then, being young and single. Yet, as time passed, my desire for those games transformed. It wasn’t an act of outgrowing; rather, I simply found myself with less time due to new priorities.
I discovered a passion for reading and writing. Realizing I could positively impact others while also enriching my own life led me to focus more on these pursuits. Consistency is essential for success, and I strive to enhance my writing and research skills. While I have outgrown some childhood games, I still cherish many from my teenage years. Circumstances have changed, and priorities have shifted, but that’s the essence of life.
Given the health problems associated with sugar intake, I find it difficult to eat much candy. I wouldn’t say I’m a fan now, but that wasn’t always the case. Unlike my children, who sometimes cry for candy every day, I wasn’t raised with it. At my age, I can barely remember the names of any candies other than Haribo; surprisingly, I even miss the names of the candies I currently buy for my kids each month. That’s how little of a fan I am.
Nevertheless, my favorite candy is Haribo because it contains less sugar than others and is also chewable. When I have a craving, I often open a pack and take out three or four pieces for myself, leaving the rest for my younger children. I’m allergic to sweetness, especially to high sugar levels, making me uncomfortable whenever I accidentally consume too much.
At some point in live everyone loves candy!
For the past fifteen years, I have suppressed my desire for anything sugary. I even went so far as to drink my tea and coffee without sugar until my doctor informed me that my sugar levels were low. At that point, I began to add a small amount to my teas and coffees. I always got goosebumps when I saw how much sugar my coworkers put into their tea; their reactions to my unsweetened drinks were quite surprising. Although they often complimented me on my choices, I understand their preferences.
Sugar is addictive, much like caffeine and other products, and since the recommended consumption levels are not well-regulated, we often ignore the consequences of excessive intake. Some parents give their children too much freedom when it comes to candy, leading to habits that can be difficult to break later in life. Understanding the importance of managing sugar consumption, I have made it a priority to regulate my young children’s candy intake to avoid the serious health consequences associated with it. Nevertheless, everyone loves candy at some point in their lives.
If wishes were horses, then beggars would ride. It’s already ten p.m., and I’ve finally convinced my six-year-old daughter to go to bed after enjoying the excellent noodles I served her for dinner. I’ve been busy all day, having had a very stressful week at work, with today being my first rest day of the week, which I must admit is not a rest day at home. I got up early to drive two of my girls to school, not minding the fact that as a night shift worker, I had to be home after three a.m. Please note that I am not writing to beg for sympathy for my current situation because it is my choice and my duty as a parent. A husband and father.
I am surrounded by love, care, and the duties that come with being a parent because I have two girls, ages three and six, respectively. On my way back from dropping them off at school, which was a fifteen-minute walk away, I recalled that I had a driving lesson at 9:15 p.m. As I hurried home, I noticed my instructor parked next to my house. Unprepared to drive right away, I hurried inside my house to get my sheet schedule and, just for convenience, have my shoes changed. My heart is racing; I haven’t gotten enough sleep or rest, and even though it’s not a workday, I have a full itinerary for the day. I prayed that I wouldn’t make any serious driving errors today.
The class lasted for one hour. Although it was not very easy, I succeeded. I knew that under pressure, my driving lessons seldom went well, but I was stuck with my schedule and had little to no alternative. If wishes were horses indeed, I was relieved when the driving lessons were over. I went home and ate breakfast as quickly as possible. I was reminded of my copywriting assignment from the online course I recently registered in when I noticed my laptop on the table. After completing lesson 04 on storytelling two days ago, I found the homework challenging due to the given directions.
Boo-boo cold and wet🥰
After searching the internet for suggestions and ideas, I saw that it was already 11:45; I had to pick up my three-year-old daughter from school. Oh, hmm. I hissed. I got dressed once more, grabbed my scooter, and opened the door to head out, only to discover that it was pouring. Rain and snow are the day’s weather forecast predictions. You have to fulfil your obligations as parents. I want to avoid giving in to the school administration’s request to pick up my children later than expected, so I take my umbrella and head out into the rain.In spite of the wind and rain, we managed to get home. While it was true that the rain got us wet, we were also washed. When we arrived home, my daughter was ecstatic; despite the rain, she was chanting, “Rain, rain, go away, and come again another day,” lilubally. This time, it was past noon, and after we ate, she fell asleep. I carried on with my copywriting task. I dozed off for an hour because I was so exhausted. It’s already 3 p.m., and time to pick up my first kid from school. I jumped on my scooter and rushed to school for the third time. We arrived home within twenty minutes. My leg shook and my eyes were heavy, my project and blog post were unfinished, and I knew rest was far away.
I apologise to my readers, subscribers, and followers for not posting on untoldrealities.com for approximately a week; it was unintentional and due to circumstances beyond my control. I looked at the prompt questions every day, but I was unable to write. But this is my life right now, and if I ever needed a break, it would be from my job because, no matter how difficult the sacrifices I made for my kids were, I would never regret being there for them when they needed me most. If wishes were horses, I would rather take a lasting break from work than not spend time with my children.
the untold Realities 