Is what you've gained in life more than what you've lost?

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INTRODUCTION

Achievements are the best moments in everyone's life as they serve as reminders that one has accomplished something no matter how tangible. This often has a way of making the achiever and the people around them proud, especially their loved ones. One's achievements make up who they are today and in the future even after one forgets the memories of them. Life is a continual process until you reach your end.

What are some things I've achieved and lost in 2022 or so far in 2023?

On a personal ground, I have had many gains and losses alike. Of which I count as achievements and lessons, it is either a gain or a lesson, that way it is a win-win situation for me.

Some achievements brought out tears in me even more than the losses, as they brought hope when I couldn't see any reminding me life is in a progression.

My Achievement

The very notable one among them all is my National Youth Service. Here is why I count this as an achievement. I graduated from the University in the year 2020, January to be precise. And with all joy and hope that I would conclude my service that same year, I began the process of registration.

Photo of me and a friend in Camp

To my biggest surprise, I was rejected from going to service based on my Middle name being abbreviated in my Jamb slip. I was asked to apply for correction, which I did, yet, to no avail. I did everything possible and wrote several letters to both my school and Jamb headquarters, but all I was told was "We didn't get your letter", then I would write again, and again still the same story.

Jamb office became my second home, I was known by all the staff that when they see me, they scream "You again!". So after several attempts, after so many unfruitful attempts I gave up on trying to go for service and everyone started doubting if I did finish school.

A photo of me and my CDs group members

Fast forward to last year, September to be precise after 2 years of trying, I was in my place of work when my boss encouraged me to check it one more time, so I went to my school with the mindset of following up on a letter I had submitted earlier. I went there, and I was told the same thing, on complaining to a stranger, he took me somewhere quiet and told me what I needed to do, which I did. 2 weeks later, my name was mobilized for me to do my Service. Here I am now, doing just that.

My Loses

Trying to settle my issue with going to service, I encountered losses both physically and in finance. I lost people I looked up to as friends and the process of writing and checking up on my letters drained my pockets financially that I had to even take up a loan to settle myself.

But above all, I lost sight of my happiness, I was depressed that seeing other people in the NYSC uniform alone would bring sadness and sorrowful thoughts to my head. Coupled with people doubting the legitimacy of my Certificate.

What lessons did you learn from it?

As I earlier said, I see my losses as lessons, and I did learn a lot of things in my saddest and happiest moments. Which includes;

• Life does not always turn out as we plan.

• When light is taken out, even your shadow will leave you behind.

• Also, we shouldn't look down on anyone as we can not tell where help will come from.

• Consistency, commitment to a course, and discipline in life will bring you breakthroughs

• That there is time for everything, and when the time comes, everything will fall into pleasant places.

Have you made some progress this year? Tell us

Oh yes, first being that I recovered from the trauma of it all, financially, too I was able to pay off my debt. Currently, I'm going into my 8th month of service which is indeed great progress for me as I have always wanted to be done with it as soon as possible. I have also commenced personal projects, so yes I have made progress, I am not where I was a last year.

What's your plan for the remaining part of the year?

Looking at the calendar, we are about to walk into the 6th month of the year. Meaning there is a lot still to come. My plans, therefore are to remain focused, committed, and consistent in service and my projects. I know things don't always go as planned but am hopeful of achieving this one also before the year run out.

I know the other plans would be, after service what's next for me? I would like to leave that as a blank slate, more like a blank cheque or canvas where I get to fill the amount I want or paint my desired outcome.

CONCLUSION

I believe that my triumphs achieved, and the challenges faced were vital in bringing me to my current position in life. This has thought me valuable lessons and given me immeasurable joy. Life is indeed full of lessons and memories as we go on. Live life to the fullest without regrets.. I like to invite @gesikem, @preye2 and @starrchris.

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My Introduction Post

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NOTE: Always have a smile on your face, as you are never fully dressed without one.