The Diary Game || 01-02-2025 || Lending A Helping Hand To An Elderly Couple.

Yesterday, Feburary 1st marked the beginning of a new month. I had scheduled to lend a helping hand to an elderly couple who don't have the strength to dedicate into farm work, but always have passion for it. After I learnt about their weakness, I shared their story with two friends (Etefia and Bernard) and they all agreed to join me. It was a day I won't forget easily, because I was met with bounty of food, a day filled with hardwork, team spirit, and joy. My day at the farm began this way......

Morning session🌄


^{When I left the house with Etefia.}	^{I boarded a taxi to the couple's residence.}

In Nigeria, it's customary to begin farm work before dawn, when the sun's rays are still gentle. Our task for the day was to clear a plot of land, preparing it for planting seeds and nurturing new growth. I rose early, boarded a taxi, and made my way to the elderly couple's house, eager to lend a helping hand. Upon arrival, we were each handed a cutlass, the trusted tool for tackling the dense underbrush. With our equipment in hand, we were ready to embark on the day's challenge.


^{On our way to the farm.}	^{When we arrived at the farm.}

The distance from the couple's residence to the farm was considerable, but with no motorcycle taxis (okada) in sight, we decided to take matters into our own hands. We set off on foot, but our journey was far from dull. Engaging in a funny conversation, the kilometers flew by, making the task feel less daunting. As we walked, we decided to fuel up for the task ahead, stopping to buy akara (fried bean cakes), refreshing garri (cassava flakes), dried fish and sugar.


^{Akara (fried bean cakes)}	^{garri (cassava flakes)}

^{Dried fish.}	^Sugar.

Upon arriving at the farm, we took a moment to refuel with the food we had purchased along the way. The akara, garri, and dried fish provided the perfect energy boost to tackle the daunting task ahead. After a brief rest and sharpening our cutlasses, we embarked on our mission to clear the dense bush. We strategically began at the back of the bush, working our way forward. The team spirit among us was strong as we labored together, united in our quest to alleviate the elderly couple's burden. The sweetness of working together with like-minded friends made the task not only manageable but also enjoyable.

Afternoon session🕐


^{Taking a break due to fatigue.}	^{Sharpening my cutlass to start another round.}

As the sun beat down on us, approaching 1 pm, exhaustion began to set in. The intense heat had taken its toll, and we were forced to take a break. At this moment, I doubted we'd be able to clear even half of the bush that day. But just as we were about to give in, a welcome surprise boosted our energy, the elderly sister arrived with a delicious meal, reviving our spirits and motivating us to press on.


^{The Afang soup we ate.}	^{Feeling revived after eating.}

Afang soup is a revered dish in Nigeria, often served as a token of appreciation to those who lend a helping hand. Yesterday was no exception. As a gesture of gratitude, we were treated to a sumptuous meal of afang soup paired with fufu. This iconic combination is a culinary delight that never fails to impress. After savoring the delicious meal, I felt revitalized and rejuvenated, ready to tackle the remaining tasks with renewed energy and power. The elderly sister's kindness had not only nourished our bodies but also lifted our spirits.


^{The part of the land that we cleared.}	^{Uncleared part of the land.}

As we wrapped up our day at the farm, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of satisfaction. The area we cleared was significantly larger than the portion we left untouched. Knowing that our efforts would bring joy to the elderly couple made our hard work all the more rewarding. After investing an additional two hours, we decided to call it a day. My palms had begun to develop painful blisters, a testament to the labor we'd put in.

Despite the physical toll, I considered it a small price to pay for the sense of accomplishment we'd achieved. As I reflected on the day's events, I felt grateful to God for the strength and protection that had carried us through.

Evening/Night session🌃


^{My dinner.}	^{The fruit spot.}

I returned to the elderly couple's residence, eager to share the day's accomplishments. After freshening up, they generously served us another delicious meal of Afang soup and fufu. Their kindness didn't stop there, they also offered us some money as a token of appreciation. However, we politely declined, feeling that their hospitality and meals were more than enough.

With full hearts and bellies, we bid the lovely couple farewell and set off. I stopped by the nearest bus stop to pick up some fresh fruits to bring home, bringing a satisfying close to a day filled with hard work, kindness, and community.

_{NOTE All pictures are taken from my phone (Tecno camon20).}