Johnson Babalola - JB

01/02/2025

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10/21/2024

The Pounded Yam Story: Lessons in Leadership, Guidance, and Healthy Competition

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My journey with pounded yam began early in life, a familiar tale for those from Ekiti and Ondo states in Nigeria. Indigenes of these states and perhaps the Ijeshas in Osun state are known for their close relationship with yam, especially pounded yam, which is a staple in many homes. Growing up with my grandmother, Yeye, in Ijare, I experienced this firsthand. In those days, farming was still common, and yams were abundant. However, not all yams were suitable for pounding. For instance, esuru (bitter yam), though known for its health benefits, was never used for pounded yam, giving rise to the Yoruba saying: "Esuru saseju, o te lowo oniyan" (pride led to the rejection of bitter yam by pounded yam lovers).

Under Yeye’s guidance, I developed a deep connection to the art of pounding yam. Yeye made sure I understood not just the process but also the variety of yams best suited for pounding—white yam being the most popular. During the dry season, we would occasionally mix it with water yam to maintain a soft texture. Sometimes, we would pound yellow yam or cocoyam by themselves as they were cheaper at the time (funny cocoyam is more expensive in the West now because of its health benefits). My maternal grandfather, a polygamist, had built a strip of multiple kitchens for his wives and other family members, fostering communal living. This setup created a vibrant, interactive environment where we would often discuss and negotiate who was cooking what and when meals would be ready to avoid conflict in when yams would be ready for pounding as more that one person might rely on the same person to do the pounding the yam. The sense of togetherness in this communal space fueled my passion for learning and deepened my appreciation for the culinary art.

My role as a "pounded yam consultant" extended beyond Yeye’s kitchen. After honing my skills, I became one of the go-to persons in the neighborhood, often hired by widows, single parents, and even married couples who needed help pounding yam. This exposure not only made me an expert but also gave me insight into the varying economic conditions of each family. Some had to stretch their food by mixing yams with corn, cocoyam, or water yam, while others couldn’t always afford meat or fish. I had a personal preference for pure yam pounded yam over the mixed versions, which made me selective about whom I chose to help, especially when there was a conflict in cooking timing. In such cases, I would prioritize assisting those I knew made the best soup or those who were generous with meat or fish. In exchange for my services, I was often rewarded with portions of the food, further solidifying my reputation as an expert in identifying the best cooks within our extended family.

But becoming an expert didn’t happen overnight. Yeye's leadership played a pivotal role in shaping me. The first time she introduced me to pounding yam, I was around six years old, and, as expected, I was terrible at it. Each time I pounded, I would eagerly ask her to check the smoothness, hoping for approval. Yeye would touch the yam in the mortar and smile, always responding with the same phrase: “Ise lii reni” (it is smooth). But when it was time to eat, I would discover the lumps. I confronted Yeye about it, wondering why she said it was smooth when clearly it wasn’t. Her response stayed with me: “Focus on your accomplishment. You pounded yam for the first time, and that’s what matters. With time, you will get better.”

Her patience and encouragement were invaluable. Instead of criticizing my mistakes, Yeye gently showed me the right techniques. She would take the pestle and demonstrate how to pound effectively, guiding me step by step. Not once did she show frustration. Her leadership style was rooted in nurturing, teaching, and patiently allowing me to grow through my own experiences. Her calmness in guiding me allowed me to embrace my mistakes and learn from them.

In addition to Yeye, my cousins, especially the older ones, were key figures in my growth. We often competed with one another on who could pound the smoothest yam. This healthy competition pushed me to improve and refine my technique. Watching them, learning from their experiences, and striving to match their skills kept me motivated. The presence of my cousins wasn’t just about competition; it was about having role models who guided me and challenged me to be better.

Though I haven’t pounded yam since the 1980s, the lessons I learned from Yeye and my cousins remain with me. Yeye’s leadership, characterized by patience, guidance, and encouragement, taught me the importance of nurturing others and allowing them room to grow. My cousins showed me the value of healthy competition and how it can inspire excellence. These experiences were more than just about food—they were about life, leadership, and the significance of having a supportive community.

Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all: https://substack.com/ https://medium.com/ https jbdlaw Website: www.johnsonbabalola://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
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You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.

Immigration lawyer, workplace consultant, corporate event emcee, public affairs analyst and storyteller

10/02/2024

The True Meaning of Vanity in Life

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When a wealthy person dies or faces distress, it's common for people to say, “Life is vanity.” The phrase, often associated with rich individuals, implies that material wealth and success hold no lasting value. This judgment can be harsh, as it often suggests that the person's wealth was ill-gotten or undeserved. But is life truly about vanity, or are we missing the bigger picture?

Origins of "Vanity Upon Vanity

The phrase "vanity upon vanity, all is vanity" is famously drawn from the biblical book of Ecclesiastes. In this text, King Solomon reflects on the fleeting nature of human life, concluding that many earthly pursuits—wealth, wisdom, pleasure—are ultimately meaningless. He writes:

"Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity" (Ecclesiastes 1:2, KJV).

Solomon, reputed to be one of the wisest and wealthiest kings, explores the notion that material wealth and personal achievements do not bring lasting fulfillment. While this reflection is deeply philosophical, it should be understood within the broader context of Ecclesiastes, which also emphasizes the importance of wisdom, righteousness, and reverence for God.

Misinterpretation of Vanity

The tendency to declare "vanity" when a wealthy person encounters hardship often stems from the assumption that the pursuit of wealth is inherently corrupt or unworthy. Many assume that riches, especially vast sums, come through immoral means or are undeserved. When someone passes away, especially a person of means, it is often said:

“You see, all that wealth was for nothing. They couldn’t take it with them.”

While the sentiment might contain some truth—wealth cannot prevent death or provide ultimate satisfaction—it is an oversimplification. Not every wealthy person has lived a life of vanity or greed. In fact, wealth can be a powerful tool, not just for personal benefit, but for the greater good. It can afford opportunities like quality healthcare, education, and a comfortable lifestyle, contributing to a person’s well-being and happiness. NBA’s Hall of Famer, Dikembe Mutombo who recently passed lived a life of giving, using his wealth to uplift others.

For those who accumulate wealth legally and ethically, and are interested in uplifting others, their resources often contribute to societal progress. Wealth can provide scholarships for students, fund hospitals, and improve infrastructure. For such individuals, life is not about vanity, but about creating value that endures beyond their lifetime.

Famous Reflections on Vanity

Historically, many famous leaders and thinkers have spoken on the concept of vanity and material wealth:

Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, noted:
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth."

This quote reminds us that people's judgments about wealth and success are often based on their limited views, not the full picture.

John D. Rockefeller, one of the wealthiest men in history, once said:

"The ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee, and I will pay more for that ability than for any other under the sun."

Rockefeller’s reflection shows that even in the world of business and wealth, human connections and ethical dealings are invaluable.

A Balanced View of Life and Wealth

We must differentiate between the pursuit of wealth as an end in itself and the use of wealth as a means to live a fuller, more impactful life. Wealth in itself is neither good nor bad; it is how it is earned and utilized that defines its role in one's life.

Consider an individual who, through hard work and ingenuity, builds a company that provides jobs for thousands, funds educational scholarships, and supports charitable causes. Their wealth enables them to live comfortably, and it allows them to create a positive legacy for others. For such a person, wealth is not vanity—it is a tool for empowerment and change.

But on the other hand, there are cases where wealth is accumulated through exploitation, corruption, or greed. In such instances, life may indeed seem like vanity because the wealth serves only the ego and leaves behind no meaningful impact. Here, the warning from Ecclesiastes holds true.

Beyond Vanity

The phrase "vanity upon vanity" should serve as a caution, not an indictment of wealth itself. It warns against placing ultimate value on temporary things—power, money, and fame—while ignoring the deeper, more enduring aspects of life: relationships, ethics, wisdom, and legacy.

For those who obtain wealth legitimately and use it to improve their lives and the lives of others, the idea that life is vanity doesn’t apply. Rather, they embody the notion that wealth can be a means to meaning, contributing to personal happiness and societal good. To judge every wealthy person’s life as vanity is to ignore the diversity of human experience and the ways in which wealth can be a force for good.

In the end, life is not about avoiding wealth or success but about ensuring that these are used responsibly, ethically, and for purposes beyond the self. Life is not inherently vanity—unless we choose to live it that way.

Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all:
https://substack.com/
https://medium.com/
https://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
IG: /
Website: www.johnsonbabalola.com
You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.

09/29/2024

Faith, Friendship, and the Broken Bond

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As I savored my bowl of seafood okra, brimming with shrimp, prawns, crab, catfish, tilapia, clams, squid, and lobster, I decided to enjoy the soup alone today—no fufu, no pounded yam—just the richness of the seafood and a glass of room-temperature water. I was about to slurp the last bit of broth, saved for the perfect finish with a tender piece of fish I had reserved, when my phone rang. It was BY, a friend who rarely called. I picked up impulsively.

“Bro, I’m in trouble,” BY's voice was firm but stressed.

“What happened, bro?” I asked, instantly concerned.

“My childhood friend, GG, has ruined me, bro,” he said, his voice shaking.

“GG? Your guy? How can he ruin you?” I asked, confused but deeply concerned. I knew how close they were—elementary school friends from 50 years ago, inseparable ever since. They were like two peas in a pod. I pressed further, “What happened, bro?”

BY sighed, then began explaining. He and GG had been through everything together—businesses, adventures, life’s highs and lows. They had made money, supported each other, and their families were intertwined. Their wives were best friends, and their kids were practically siblings. BY trusted GG with his life. Everyone who knew them knew that. We, their other friends, were always second-tier compared to GG.

But then, BY dropped the bombshell. Five years into his marriage, he had a one-night stand with a woman—someone he thought he had left in his past. He never gave it a second thought until five years later when the woman showed up at his office with a child, claiming it was his. Stunned, BY turned to GG, the one person he felt he could trust with anything. GG advised him to get a DNA test, and when it confirmed the child was indeed his, BY begged GG to keep the secret. He wasn’t ready to tell his wife yet. GG swore on their friendship, saying that only death would force him to betray that confidence.

Then BY's voice lowered. “But last week, GG called me and said he had become born again, that he had given his life to Christ and that the Bible compels him to be truthful in all things. He said he couldn’t keep my secret anymore.”

I felt a pit form in my stomach as I listened. “What? Did he tell your wife?”

BY sighed heavily. “Yes, bro. He told her everything. Now my house is on fire, and I’m staying in a hotel. Things are hot at home, bro. My wife is devastated, and I don’t know what to do.”

For a moment, I couldn’t speak. I knew what this meant. I knew how much BY loved his wife, how careful he was about his family, how this revelation would tear them apart. But what bothered me more was GG’s decision. Friendship is built on trust—on the understanding that there are some things you take to the grave, except it is an illegal act. GG had taken something sacred between them and exposed it.

“BY, I’m so sorry,” I said, trying to gather my thoughts. “This is heavy. But look, your issue right now is with your wife. GG’s betrayal is a separate thing, and you’ll deal with that. But first, you need to talk to your wife. Be honest, as much as you can. Yes, it’s painful, but you have to be the one to fix this. Don’t let GG’s actions be the end of your marriage.”

“I don’t know if I can fix this, bro,” BY said quietly. “She’s so hurt. And I just can’t believe GG did this to me. After all we’ve been through.”

I understood his pain. GG had crossed a line, not just as a friend but as a brother. He claimed his newfound faith demanded honesty, but where was the loyalty? Where was the understanding that some things aren’t his to reveal?

“You trusted him with something incredibly sensitive,” I replied, “and instead of giving you the space to handle it, he chose to act like a messenger of truth. But being born again doesn’t mean betraying those you’ve stood by for decades. That’s not how it works.”

“What do I do with GG?” BY asked.

“That’s up to you,” I said softly. “Trust is broken now, maybe forever. Whether or not you can forgive him is something only time will tell, but I do know this—you’ve got a wife who’s hurt and a family at stake. Focus on them first.”

We ended the call, the weight of his situation pressing down on me long after the line went dead. My seafood okra had gone cold, but I didn’t care. In that moment, I understood something deeper about friendship and betrayal, faith and loyalty. GG’s faith had given him the courage to be “truthful,” but it had come at the cost of a friendship. BY was now standing at a crossroads, unsure of where either relationship would go from here.

Trust, once shattered, is a hard thing to rebuild. Whether it was with his wife or with his friend, BY would have to decide which bonds were worth repairing—and which, perhaps, were beyond saving.

Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all: https://substack.com/ https://medium.com/ https://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
IG: Website: www.johnsonbabalola.com
You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.

Immigration lawyer, workplace consultant, corporate event emcee, public affairs analyst and storyteller

09/28/2024

When Trust Hurts: Beating Your Chest and Life’s Letdowns

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DT, a young boy from the village of Magbaraleniyan, came home from school one afternoon, clearly upset. His grandmother, KL, noticed the troubled expression on his face and asked, “What’s the matter, my dear?”

“Grandma, MJ bullied me again today," DT replied, with a frustrated sigh. "But my friend GF said he’ll help me beat him up tomorrow. I felt so relieved that I even beat my chest, confident he’ll make things right for me!"

KL smiled gently, drawing him closer. "Ah, my boy, be careful about beating your chest in trust of what someone else will do for you. People can mean well, but that doesn't mean they will always come through. It’s the first time I’m hearing about this bullying, but I promise I’ll come with you to the school tomorrow and talk to the teachers. However, you must never rely on violence or put your trust entirely in what another person says they will do."

Listening intently, DT frowned. "So when shouldn’t I beat my chest, Grandma? What other situations?"

KL’s wise eyes twinkled as she began. "There are many times, child, when beating your chest in confidence about what others will do can lead to disappointment. For example, when people are getting married, they often believe that the love they feel today will last forever, that their spouse will never change. But people do change, and love can fade. You could find yourself wondering if you made a mistake, beating your chest and trusting they would always love you the same."

She paused, then added, "It also happens with friends. You may have a friend for many years, someone you beat your chest for, thinking they’ll always be by your side. But sometimes, when that friend reaches a higher station in life—perhaps they become wealthy or gain power—they may no longer be as accessible. You could find yourself disappointed, realizing that the person you trusted isn’t the same anymore."

KL leaned back, her voice lowering slightly. "And what about children? Parents often beat their chests, believing their children will care for them in old age. But when the time comes, those same children might have other priorities, leaving their parents feeling abandoned. Life changes people’s paths, and those you rely on might not always follow through."

DT’s eyes were wide, soaking in every word. KL continued, "Even when you think people praise you today, don’t beat your chest believing they will support you forever. Fortune can change, and so can people. Sometimes those who cheer for you in good times disappear when things get tough."

DT nodded, a hint of understanding crossing his face. "So, should I never trust anyone?"

"Not quite," KL said, gently patting his hand. "You should trust, but always be prepared for the possibility that things can change. It’s fine to hope for the best, but don’t rely entirely on others. Instead, build yourself—your strength, your character, your abilities. That way, when people disappoint you, it won't break you."

She smiled warmly. "Remember, overreliance on others can lead to heartache. If you put too much faith in someone else and they let you down, it’s your chest that will hurt... and sometimes, it will hurt very badly."

Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all: https://substack.com/ https://medium.com/ https://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
IG: Website: www.johnsonbabalola.com
You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.

09/21/2024

If Your Phone Could Testify About You: A Reflection on Human Relationships

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Have you ever wondered what your phone would say about you if it were called to testify as a character witness in a court of law, under oath? Hmmm… Maybe it’s time to pause and think about that. In this digital age, where our phones have become extensions of ourselves, the way we choose, treat, and use these devices can say a lot about who we are—both in how we interact with the world and how we treat those around us. Let’s delve into some lessons we could learn if our phones were human and able to talk.

The Choice: What Drives Your Decisions?

Let’s start with how you chose your phone in the first place. Was it a deliberate decision based on affordability, practicality, or functionality? Or was it simply a compromise because you couldn’t afford the one you truly wanted? Perhaps you dreamt of a more expensive phone, one with more features or a flashier brand. If your phone could talk, would it testify that you only chose it because of limited funds, or would it say you sought out a device that met your needs without caring about superficial status?

Now, think about how this parallels your relationships with people. Do you choose to surround yourself with individuals based on their wealth, status, or appearance, or do you value them for their character, compatibility, and shared goals? If your phone could draw a comparison, would it accuse you of shallow choices, or praise you for valuing substance over form?

Discrimination vs. Inclusivity

When you chose your phone, did you consider its color, size, or brand? Some people discriminate between phones based on their looks, preferring sleek designs or prestigious names over functionality. What if your phone could link this behavior to how you interact with people? Would it accuse you of treating people differently based on their color, ethnicity, or background? Or would it praise you for being inclusive and open-minded?

A phone, much like people, comes in various forms—some more sophisticated, others more straightforward, but all with their own unique purpose. If your phone could speak, would it highlight your ability to see the value in others beyond the surface, or would it reveal a tendency to judge based on appearances?

Treatment: Care, Obsession, or Neglect?

How have you treated your phone since you got it? Will it complain about being tossed carelessly into bags, dropped frequently, or abandoned for the latest model? Or will it testify to an obsessive attachment, where you can’t put it down, even at the cost of spending time with loved ones or attending to more pressing matters?

Phones, much like relationships, need balance. Too much attachment can lead to obsession; too little care can lead to neglect. If your phone could testify, would it reveal you as someone who knows how to balance your attention between different aspects of your life, or as someone whose possessiveness strains relationships?

This comparison forces us to ask: how do we treat the people in our lives? Are we neglectful, only reaching out when we need something? Are we too possessive, smothering them with attention until it becomes unhealthy? Or are we balanced, giving the right amount of care without losing focus on other important areas?

Secrets: The Power of What Your Phone Knows

Think about the personal information stored on your phone. Photos, messages, location history, and browsing activity—your phone knows more about you than many people do. It holds your secrets: the conversations you’ve had in private, the gossip you’ve spread, the relationships you’ve formed or hidden, and the moments of success or failure you’ve kept to yourself.

What would your phone say about how you use it to uplift or malign others? Would it expose the harmful gossip, the lies, abuse of others, or the hurtful words you’ve sent out through its screen? Or would it praise you for using it as a tool for kindness, sending messages of love, encouragement, and support?

Phones are mirrors of our intentions. They amplify whatever we pour into them—whether good or bad. Are you using your phone as a weapon or a tool for positive impact? The same could be said about how we use our voices and our actions in real life.

Learning from Your Phone: How to Treat Others Better

Here’s the big takeaway: if we treated our relationships the way we care for our phones, the world might just be a better place. What if we gave people the kind of attention we give to keeping our devices updated, charged, and secure? What if we were as careful with others' feelings as we are with protecting the data on our phones?

Think about how phones, despite their imperfections and wear, serve us faithfully as long as we care for them. Likewise, people—no matter their imperfections—thrive in environments of care, respect, and understanding. Just as your phone can’t function well without regular updates and attention, relationships also require ongoing care, effort, and kindness to flourish.

Final Thoughts

Imagine, for a moment, that your phone was called to testify in a court of law. What would it say about your character? Would it speak of a person who values substance over status? Someone who doesn’t discriminate based on appearances but seeks out deeper connections? Would it reveal someone who maintains balance and fairness in their relationships, or would it tell a story of obsession, neglect, or discrimination?

Phones, like people, are only as valuable as the way we treat them. And just as we care for our phones to make sure they serve us well, we should care for the people in our lives with the same respect and mindfulness. When we learn to value both material possessions and relationships in a healthy, balanced way, we contribute to making the world a kinder, more understanding place.

In the end, if your phone could testify about you, make sure it would have good things to say.

Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all: https://substack.com/ https://medium.com/ https://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
IG: Website: www.johnsonbabalola.com
You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.

09/16/2024

From Sickle Cell Awareness to Life Planning: How Preparation Shapes Our Future

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Watching Nigeria’s Iyabo Ojo’s powerful movie, Not Again, on YouTube, and recalling Strain, another impactful film on Netflix directed by Nigeria’s Uduak-Obong Patrick and produced by Benjamin Adeniran and Oluwatoyin Adewumi, stirred deep reflections on the issue of sickle cell anemia in our society. These movies highlight a key issue affecting many in ethnic groups prone to sickle cell anemia: a lack of preparation and awareness, leading to generations of children born into preventable suffering.

Sickle cell anemia, a genetic disorder, affects millions worldwide, especially in African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian populations. For couples from these ethnic groups, it is crucial to undergo certain medical tests before having children to avoid the risk of passing on this debilitating disease. Among the key tests are:

Hemoglobin Electrophoresis: A test that helps determine whether either or both partners carry the sickle cell trait.
Sickle Cell Test (Sickle Dex Test): This test screens for the presence of hemoglobin S, the abnormal form of hemoglobin that leads to sickle cell disease.
Genetic Testing: If both partners are carriers of the sickle cell trait, genetic testing can help determine the chances of passing on sickle cell anemia to their children.

These tests provide invaluable insights, allowing couples to make informed decisions about their future. However, many couples do not take these simple yet important steps before starting a family, often because of cultural attitudes, lack of education, or unawareness of the implications. This unpreparedness in planning for health and relationships is emblematic of a larger issue that affects many people, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

In many communities, particularly in low-income settings, a significant number of individuals start life without any deliberate planning—be it in the areas of health, career, finances, relationships, or retirement. This can be attributed to the absence of mentorship, lack of access to quality education, and cultural norms that discourage long-term planning. As a result, these individuals stumble through life, facing unexpected challenges and often struggling with regret and hardship.

Many people who are successful in these areas, however, are those who have been deliberate from the early years. They actively seek mentors, pursue education, and arm themselves with information that helps them prepare for life’s challenges. They understand the importance of planning ahead and make conscious decisions about their future, from health choices to career aspirations, financial management, and personal relationships. By contrast, those who do not plan often find themselves trapped in cycles of poverty, poor health, and emotional struggles, a reality that could have been avoided with better preparation.

One of the most important decisions in life, which often goes unplanned, is the choice of a partner. Just as couples should get tested for sickle cell anemia compatibility to avoid future heartbreak, they must also carefully consider whether their values, goals, and life visions align before committing to a long-term relationship. Choosing the right partner requires deep introspection, thoughtful evaluation, and, at times, seeking external guidance from trusted mentors or counselors. A mismatch in values, lack of shared goals, or even incompatible personality traits can lead to long-term emotional distress, unhappiness, and the breakdown of a relationship.

The decision not to test for sickle cell anemia compatibility before marriage mirrors the same lack of preparation in other areas of life. When people fail to plan for major life events—whether it’s choosing a partner, choosing a career, managing finances, or safeguarding their health—they often end up facing serious consequences. This is why it’s crucial to be deliberate about life choices. Reject what you don’t want for your future and embrace what will help you succeed and live a peaceful, fulfilling life.

As an immigration lawyer in Canada, I’ve witnessed firsthand the toll that poor planning can take. I’ve seen people struggle with the physical and emotional burdens of living with sickle cell anemia, both in themselves and in their children. There is pain, fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and stress, often accompanied by deep regret over missed opportunities to prevent the disease. These struggles are not just physical; they also lead to emotional and financial stress that could have been avoided had there been proper awareness and foresight.

Most of the people I’ve encountered who carry this burden did not take the necessary precautions because they either didn’t know or didn’t take the issue seriously enough. Some chose love over caution, but many simply didn’t plan. It’s a tragic example of how a lack of preparation can have lifelong consequences, not just for the individual, but for their families and communities.

Ultimately, the lesson here is clear: Planning is essential in all areas of life. Whether it’s getting tested for sickle cell anemia before starting a family, choosing the right partner, planning your career, managing your finances, or thinking ahead about your health and retirement, being deliberate in your actions can spare you a world of regret and pain. Those who succeed in life are not simply lucky; they are often those who planned for it. They were intentional about their decisions, sought out guidance, and learned from the experiences of others.

If we want to build successful, healthy, and peaceful lives, we must reject the notion that things will simply work out without preparation. Life demands that we make thoughtful choices. We must be proactive, seek out information, embrace mentorship, and be willing to plan for our future. This is the path to success, health, and long-term fulfillment.

Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst. Follow him for discussions on real life issues that affect us all: https://substack.com/ https://medium.com/ https://www.facebook.com/jbandthings
IG: Website: www.johnsonbabalola.com
You can obtain a copy of his book, REJECTED on Amazon, FriesenPress, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, Apple Books, Nook Store etc.