HARMONY

The first quarter of the year always calls for a sober reflection on the previous years' activities such as academic pursuits, relationships with family and friends, and a host of other things.

But I've come to realize that the best way to start the new year is with a lot of confidence and a solid approach to whatever you do, for your projected self-worth often determines what you get out of life; meaning that what you see is what you get.

That's why I love artists. One thing you can't take away from them is their self-worth; the ability to take an ordinary image, be it a sculpture or drawing, and turn it into something art lovers would be willing to pay a huge amount of money to acquire.

I attended an art exhibition not quite long ago. There was this particular artwork that drew my attention. I watched as multitudes of visitors to the art museum would stop in front of it, and turn their heads 60 degrees, just to decipher what was on it until it got to a very young couple who looked rather privileged.

You could tell the young man had no interest in art until they came in front of this particular artwork.

"La ilahe illallah!" He exclaimed.

"Why didn't you tell me this was what we were coming to see? I would have gladly followed you without hesitation." He said with a mischievous grin as they went through the same ritual.

Out of curiosity, I went to the same painting as soon as they left and turned my head 60 degrees.

At first, the painting didn't make much meaning to me, until I looked deeper and saw what looked like two tangled bodies in an embrace, with the word 'Harmony' boldly written underneath.

As you would expect, that painting was one of the first to go even when it cost more than a million Naira.

This experience taught me something; that your projected self-worth always determines what you get out of life. In other words, people will always see what you want them to see. 

It is important therefore that young people develop a sense of confidence in everything they do, starting with their academics, self-image, friendship, posture, and even eye contact. They all help to send a subtle message about your personality.

In other words, losing your purity as a young girl should cost a lot more than the simple three-letter word "I love you" or a plate of food and soft drinks.

And you young boys, you are the utter ego of your parents. Don't let them down with your disobedience and antics. Believe me, the pain it inflicts runs deeper than a wound.

Just strive to be good children.