Some Dreams Delay, But Never Deny: Keep Moving

Some dreams come true early in life, while others are delayed. Some dreams are realized by having destiny helpers, while others are achieved through sheer hard work, pushing against all odds, and breaking substantial barriers.

I belong to the second group. For a young man who was a teacher, a policeman, a nurse, an anesthetist, and a footballer, one wouldn’t say that this person had a particular dream. But through doggedness, never quitting, and a never-say-die spirit—believing that God will not make me an abandoned project—along with goodwill to humanity and finding a space to be kind even during severe want, things shaped. Could things have been better? Yes. Any regrets? NO!

Former President Shehu Shagari once said his dream was to be a Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic. He never was. The best I wanted at the PENGASSAN National level was to become the Industrial Relations Officer during the 2003 PENGASSAN Delegates Conference. I never was. By the grace of God and the destiny helpers, we both received something greater than our dreams.

In my case, Comrades Pastor Bisi Olowoyo and Joel Dimla, two of the finest unionists ever produced by the defunct Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, asked me, “Do you know you could be President of PENGASSAN?” Their belief in me was based on what they saw. The rest is now history.

So, what are we doing to encourage our destiny helpers to elevate us beyond our dreams? Do we realize that people observe us from a distance, and in critical moments, one of those observing us could be the catalyst we need to rise beyond our current level? They watch your mannerisms, behaviors, mode of dress, what you spend time on, habits, and attitude to life.

So, what are we doing each time we are seen? What behaviors do we exhibit that could deter our destiny helpers from coming closer to us? Do we have mentors or coaches? Who are our role models? What books and movies do we engage with? How much time do you spend watching television and interacting with online content that does not add value to your life? Who do we associate with? Who do we seek advice from? Who are our confidants?

To progress beyond our current state, let us reflect and speak the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth by providing sincere answers to these questions. Self-reflection is a powerful tool that can help us understand our strengths and weaknesses, and guide us towards our dreams.

Friends, you can make your dreams come true if you choose the right friends in your circle of influence. You can turn things around by working hard on essential, value-added propositions. You can move up by engaging in what resonates with your passion, stay focused, be true to others, and stop viewing yourself as a failure.

From tonight, say goodbye to self-fulfilling prophecies. Stop allowing the gravitational forces around you to pull you down. Nobody is born a failure; no age is too late to succeed or reach the top.

I look forward to seeing you on top soon. No stopping. No waiting. Keep moving.

Grace and peace!!!