He said, "See o, during the inauguration of Kano's new Governor, the roof of the podium collapsed. He was fortunate to survive."

Not bothering to look at his phone, she replied, "No be that one e dey me. Na to calculate the cost of these goods."

After a few minutes, he spoke to her again, "Dem say NNPC go sell fuel for =N= 500. That means say oda filling station go sell for =N= 700 be that."

Visibly angry (because this one will affect her), she replied, " Which kine thing be that. Na so them won..."

In less than one minute she said all she wanted to. (because even if it affects her, she can't legally influence the outcome.)

Immediately, she stood up from the bench (Perhaps to avoid another bombshell from the informant of doom).

She brought out the goods she bought and continued with her calculations.

He continued on his phone, his hands scrolling up, and occasionally squinting his eyes as he read something.

She called out to him, "Director, abeg come help me calculate this thing, e be like say I dey do mistake."

He stood up, even as he walked towards her direction, his eyes was still on the phone.

=============================

Attention! Time! Attention! Time!

What we all have in common, but use differently.

The internet and trending topics have made it so easy for our time and attention to be consumed subtly, day in and day out.

Why do most persons habitually give attention to all manner of news?

Are they aware that such isn't good for one's health?

Watch what an expert says about this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wG54fZJUD2k

Can we incrementally grow in knowing what should consume our time and what shouldn't?

The internet, will you use it to better your life or waste your time, your life?

Observation of an Intentional Victor

It was an interview session with a company. One competence on Segun's CV was honesty.

An interviewer asked, "Are you sure you are honest?" Segun answered, "Yes."

Next he asked, "You work in a bank, right?" Segun nodded. He asked, "It's a work day. To attend this interview, you would have lied."

Segun answered, "My supervisor knows I am here." He continued, "Really? Okay give me your supervisor's number so I can ascertain."

Immediately, Segun brought out his phone to give him the number...He stopped Segun with the words, "It's okay. I believe you."

And that was the end of the interview. After a few weeks, Segun was called for the next stage of their recruitment process.

By then he was undergoing an onboarding exercise with a new employer.
=============================
Honesty, even in little thing remains the best policy. It's a moral/spiritual value.

Values are key.

The more scarce a value becomes, the more precious it becomes.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor.

Subsidy removal.

Floating dollar.

Policies the Government says will boost the economy.

Will it positively affect the man on the street?

Time will tell.

For now the man on the street is adding one plus one to keep body and soul together.

More and more mini shops keep opening in Nmeri's area.

The lady who runs a dry-cleaning business on the major road moved it to a side street.

Then converted the initial dry-cleaning shop to a food stuff shop.

Always smiling.

Always greeting.

No wonder more and more persons are now patronizing her mini Mart.

Despite more than ten such shops within a tiny radius.

Same multiplications have also affected the POS businesses.

Yet, there is this particular one on Nmeri's area.

The POS owner,

always respectful,

honest, and

thankful after transacting with a customer.

Those in need of the service will skip tens before his, just to patronize him.

Excellent Service is important during these times.

Service with a smile.

Service with courtesy.

Service with integrity.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

"Daughter, this is your first consignment."

"Son, and here is your first consignment." She said as she gave the packages to her children.

The children are undergraduates. They were on their way back to their respective institutions.

She, their mum is a trader. For the last fifteen years, she nurtured a successful perfume business.

As the kids prepared for another semester, she had a talk with them. The summary of the discussion: 50% of your pocket money will be given to you in perfumes and body sprays (at cost price).

Three weeks later she checked on them to know how far they have gone.

The daughter replied, "Mum it's moving. This is a brilliant idea. In fact I will make much more than the 50% of my pocket money. I need to replenish my stock. It's nearly finished."

The son replied, "Mum, it's still there. I'm creating a brand. I am still designing the logo. And thinking about a business name. I want to also open a website, then social media handles for the products...

She replied, "Oga Brander. Those can come later. First, test the waters."

The son replied, "Mum, branding is important."

She replied, "Of course it is. Yet, first things first. Your sister's consignment is nearly finished."

He replied, "How?"

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

The Uber driver said, "See big man. E still dey sleep by this time."

Segun looked at the Uber guy and smiled.

Earlier, he had gone to the house of his friend to pick up some work tools.

And because his friend came out sleepy eyed from the gate of a big house, the uber concluded he must be a big man.

Segun smiled again.

If only the Uber guy knew that his friend was waking up late because four days in a row, he was hustling for thirteen hours straight.

If only the Uber guy knew that even on getting home, his friend had to relieve his wife in taking care of his mother who wasn't in a position to cater for her basics.

If only the Uber guy understood, that he may be traveling soon for another health issue. This time involving a surgery for one of his kids.

If only the Uber guy understood that his income for some time isn't what it used to be. Barely enough to handle the basics of his family. He is even praying for a significant break through to enable him handle the child's surgery.

If only the Uber guy understands that his friend is of a rare breed. A rare breed who don't wear problems on their face, like most persons do. A rare breed who regularly retain their peace, even in challenges.

If only he knew of those few occasions when his friend seemed overwhelmed, and sought for a good listener (not adviser) in a friend and business partner like Segun.

If only...

As they continued the ride, the Uber guy said, "Since 6am, I don dey hustle. Poor man dey struggle o."

Segun replied, "Every one dey struggle. Big man struggles to maintain his economic status or even go higher. Poor man struggles for the basics."

The Uber guy nodded.

Segun continued, "It's like building a house, the poor man still dey foundation level. Big man don comot for foundation. His building is already visible.

The Uber guy added, "Foundation? The poor man is still clearing the bush."

Segun laughed.

The Uber guy continued, "It's just for us to contented."

Segun sighed, then replied, "Contentment is good. Yet contentment doesn't say we should stop making effort.

"Contentment means being free from anxiety as you put in the effort to better your lot."

The Uber guy nodded.

He nodded severally like one that got the gist of the last sentence.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Tony Elumelu attended his daughter's graduation ceremony at the prestigious London School of Economics yesterday.

He has bequeathed to the daughter one of the best capital investment a parent can give a child - Education.

And there are assets, that money can't buy which he shows the children by example.

Intangible assets such as, discipline, hard-work, good family life.

Tony is a good role model.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care. — Theodore Roosevelt

HIS MARRIAGE

David could not sleep. It was 2:35a.m, on a Friday morning. For the fourth night in a row, he could not sleep.

The home had become a battlefield of sorts. Sandra, had cried herself to sleep for the third time in a month.

No matter how much he tried, he kept seeing his marriage as a mistake. Some marriage counselors say, “Understanding between couples occur in the seventh year of marriage.”

It was not the seventh year, rather their sixteenth year. Still it seemed they were back to the second year, after the euphoria of the first romantic year.

He stared at the ceiling, their intense argument ended at 1:23a.m. It lasted for three hours and fifteen minutes.

Sandra was the timekeeper. She was fond of counting time when their disagreements entered the warpath. When she mentioned minutes, he knew it was time for her to give up.

On this occasion, David continued in his murderous rage for an extra twenty minutes. Hence, three hours and fifteen minutes was by Sandra’s timing. An additional twenty minutes, and silence reigned after three hours and thirty-five minutes.

Exhausted, he walked to his shelf in his personal study. Therein, books on marriage and relationships occupied one-fifth of the shelf. They had read a few together. He had read all, applied all the advice in the books, but nothing worked.

It appeared the more he tried, the more he failed.

As a husband, he was tired; on his marriage, he had given up.

Reluctantly, he walked to his bar. As a doctor, he understood the harmful effect of alcohol abuse.

Even a dying drunk understands, but still lives in a bottle, until he goes six feet under the ground. A dying drunk clings to his bottle, as they lower him to the pit of no return.

Addictions are hard to break.

Straight from a bottle of Campari, he drank. In less than fifteen minutes, he was fast asleep.

Excerpts from the Book: Smart with Feelings - The Stars.

Interested to own a copy?

Shoot me an email or contact me via WhatsApp: zero eight one five zero five zero eight three four seven.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Dad asked, "How much is the cost for all this?"

Son replied, "Five thousand dollars, Dad."

"Five thousand dollars, that's roughly four million naira, right?

"Yes Dad."

"Hmmm, you know, you aren't the only child we have. Two of your younger ones are writing their projects. Our last child just gained admission - "

"Dad-"

"Son don't Dad me yet, I am not through. The inflation rate in the country isn't slowing down. You are aware mum and I have made up our minds to move into our house this year. So some funds are also going there-"

"Dad-"

"Don't Dad me yet. So you see, this your plan has to wait."

"Dad are you through?"

"Yes, Son."

"So I can now Dad you."

Both laughed and the hanging tension eased off.

"Dad, I have the funds for this program. I just need your consent and blessing to proceed with the plan."

Dad looked puzzled.

"How? Hope you haven't joined..."

"No Dad. From legit online hustles and savings, I invested in cryptocurrency while an undergraduate."

"Crypto. Crypto that isn't paying like it used to. How did you do yours?

"I withdrew at its peak a few years ago. Invested the cash in real estate. Sold off-"

"Hey hey, stop there son, not so fast. where did you get the funds to invest?"

"Savings from my pocket money and online hustles."

"Online hustles such as?"

"Well, I did this MMM back then-"

"Yeah I heard about it, but it crashed."

"Before it crashed, I already had some tidy savings from it."

"Okay."

"I used part of the money to learn web developing and Java."

"Web I understand. Which one is Java?"

His son laughed.

"It's a programming language."

"From this I got some gigs-"

"Gigs?" Dad asked, lost."

"Oh, that's what we call it. You know jobs, tasks."

"Oh! Oh! I understand you now."

"So over time from these gigs and savings, I invested roughly one million naira in local currency into crypto. Three years later I cashed out five million naira. Invested that in real estate. Sold the last plot one month ago and overall cashed out nine million naira."

"Son, I'm happy for you. Wow! times have changed. During my days, an undergraduate, can't comfortably combine income generation with academics, without affecting his grades. How much more making such money. Your generation is very fortunate. This online stuff have bridged the generational income gaps. Well done, son."

"Thanks Dad."

"I must also commend your financial discipline. Some young men would have spent the money lavishly. But here you are, still living the life you were living all these years. Who would believe that this twenty-four year recent graduate has a net worth of ten million naira. I'm so proud of you son."

"Thanks Dad."



#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

It was a Saturday morning.

I met my friend, home alone with the little kids.

Doing multiple home chore simultaneously.

Cleaning the house. Warming the food. Children-sitting. Washing the dishes.

"Did madam travel?" I asked.

"Oh! No. She is at the furniture guy's place." He replied.

Seeing my puzzled countenance. He smiled and continued.

"This morning, I ought to take the dining chair for some corrections, and stay till the furniture guy completes some other furniture items.

"When she got the signs I was not ready for that, she told me she is doing it herself. I approved."

"Why didn't you go?" I asked.

"Guy, from experience she is better with details like that. Recently when I supervised the curtain guys, I thought everything was perfect.

"When she came back from an event, she said, "no no, this wasn't fitted perfectly.

"She snapped it, sent it to the curtain lady. And the curtain lady apologized, saying an amateur handled it, as their professionals were busy.

"When it was corrected, I saw the difference." My friend answered.

I nodded as I digested this.

"So I have to ease things for her today. I am far better with home chores than I am with interiors. So no biggie in our today's domestic chores" He concluded.

The wife came back in the afternoon.

And among the first thing she did was to hug the hubby, with these words:

"Ah. Honeey, I have been wanting to tidy up this verander. And you did it. And other things you took care of. Thanks dear. Make I buy you beer?

My friend laughed. You know I don't take beer.

The wife continued, "When I got there, one of the furnitures was ready, but it wasn't perfect...

My friend gave me that look that communicated, "You see what I mean...."

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

"Heart, how are you today?" he asked.

She replied, "Honey, today again? You would have rested today."

Honey was 75 years.

Heart was 62 years.

Honey sat on his Heart's bed.

Held her hands in his.

Lovingly, he scanned her face.

A Nurse stepped into the ward.

She spotted the old couple.

She smiled and said, "Eiyaa, this una love ehnn."

They smiled.

The Doctor came for his routine checks.

"Mummy," he said, "there is good improvement, you will be discharged tomorrow."

"That's fine Doctor." She replied.

He continued, "On Monday, you will come for a checkup. Daddy can bring you."

"Doctor, my husband will rest. My daughter will come with me.

"Please you people shouldn't stress my husband o, because he is kind-hearted."

"Heart, to come with you? Is that one stress? Biko. Biko," Honey replied.

Admiringly, the Doctor smiled.

#observationofanintentionalvictor#

John looked up as Chris stepped into the room. At a glance, John could tell all wasn't well with Chris.

"What's up man?" John asked.

Chris sat on the only sofa chair in their room. Tears welled up in his eyes, as he bit his lower lips.

Severally, he shook his head side ways, then lowered it. Hands clasped, legs wide, head bowed.

"Hmmm." John heaved. He stood up, walked towards Chris, and sat on the arm of the sofa chair. He placed his right arm on Chris's shoulders, as he patted him gently with his palm.

Chris said, "We took him as one of us. My late Dad sponsored his first degree. My late elder brother backed him up financially when he relocated to Europe. Ah! Death. Why?"

John continued to soothe him, without words, with his palms.

After forty seconds, Chris lifted his head. He straightened. Looked at John, and continued, "All the expense involving this Japa plans have been borne by me. You know how I hustle and deny myself some things, just for this dream to materialize."

John nodded.

"All I need to complete the flight ticket is one million naira. I reached out to him like I told you I would. He kept posting me for three weeks. Finally when we spoke, he told he doesn't have such money to give me. Even as a loan I pleaded. He said he doesn't have. Okay what can you loan me, he said, 'nothing.' I feel so much pain. The pain of his lack of concern is even greater than the pain of not helping me with funds. Before I pull two more strings, I know the funds will come. Why is he like this?"

John's compassionate face was peaceful. He was thinking if Chris wanted an answer or it was a rhetoric question.

Chris asked again, "John, please tell me, give me an explanation, I can't fathom this."

John replied, "I will tell you about Brave and Dave:

Brave assisted Dave expecting something back - ok.

Brave assisted Dave expecting nothing back - better.

Why?

Brave isn't Dave. And Dave isn't Brave."

Chris looked at John, expecting more words.

John smiled.

Chris understood that smile. A smile that meant: That's all I have to say.

Chris pondered over the words on Brave and Dave. After ten minutes, he seemed to have grasped the point.

Chris nodded.

His eyes glittered.

Chris smiled.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Reflective Cycle

Reflective cycle is an efficient tool to control emotions. It is a three-step approach:

a. Identify what you are feeling. The first step in this tool is to identify what you are feeling.

For example, these are some signs of anger—tightening of the knuckles, rapid/stammering speech, sweaty brows, and a faster heartbeat.

John noticing any of these can say, “I am feeling anger.” Mentioning this can be the difference between a feeling of anger, and expressing rage.

b. Make an honest determination of the underlying cause.

Ironically, your initial thought on the cause of your feelings, may not be the genuine reason why you feel that way.

For example, while preparing for work, a man was worried about an upcoming downsizing.

On his way, a motorist insulted him, though he did not retaliate, underneath he boiled in anger.

During the weekly meeting, a colleague made a negative comment about the quality of his report. He replied aggressively. Feelings of anger have been building from home; the colleague’s comment was an excuse for an outlet—the wrong outlet...

c.

Extracted from the book:

Smart with Feelings - The Stars.

Invest in yourself today and embark on a transformative journey towards emotional intelligence.

Your emotional intelligence awaits.
Step into this extraordinary narrative today, through:

Smart with Feelings - The Stars.

Interested?

Send an email or WhatsApp: zero eight one five zero five zero eight three four seven.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Hundreds of men and women in their exercise kits, were taking a walk as John drove through a high brow estate in Port-Harcourt.

Mentally, he compared this with his residential area, "the difference is clear," he thought to himself. The wealthy know how to take care of their health.

He drove into his cousin's compound. He came out from the car, same time the cousin James, was returning from his one hour morning brisk walk. They hugged, as they exchanged pleasantries.

"I was just thinking that you wealthy ones know how to take care of your health, going by the number of those I saw brisk walking within this area."

His cousin smiled, as he replied, "Only a few make this a daily routine. Most of us take one hour walk on Saturdays. Can you compare that with the daily walks most take who don't own a vehicle or regularly order an Uber?

They sat under the shed of a tree.

When others were busy bulldozing every green stem during the initial phase of developing the estate. James intentionally told the developers to leave that particular tree standing. They gave all manner of excuses why it had to be brought down. He insisted. And they left it.

The wisdom of leaving the tree was best seen, when his mother-in-law suffered from some respiratory disease.

Under the shade of the tree, she found it easier to breath, as she exhaled carbon dioxide and inhaled the oxygen, which the tree exhaled. Sitting under the tree was part of the antidote that enabled her regain her health.

John asked, "Are you now saying that those without a car are healthier?"

James replied, "Health has nothing to do with having a car or not. It's only in developing countries that cars are seen as luxuries. There are areas in developed countries, that the role of public transport is so minimized. Such that, for you to move around efficiently, you must own a car. The system is so structured that anyone who earns even minimum wage, can afford a car.

John asked, "Does that account for the higher rate of obsessed persons over there compared to here?

James answered, "Yes it does. Though it's just one out of several reasons. The most important thing is to be intentional with your health. Being intentional with your health, has nothing to do with car ownership or otherwise."

John said, "Most who earn an income can't afford a car in this country. And even with the removal of fuel subsidy, some no longer use their car as often as they want to.

"Recently, anytime I use a public transport, any small attitude from the driver or conductor, there is a passenger that will say, 'I don't blame you. I left my car at home, because of this hike in fuel.' Before he is even through, many will join in saying, 'Don't mind this driver. Same with me o. I also left my car.'

Both of them laughed, as James said, "So now everyone is claiming to be a car owner."

John continued, "And the driver or conductor will reply rudely: 'Now no be to get car be the issue o. The koko be say weda you fit always fuel or use your car.'

They laughed once more.

James said, "Ah! John, back to our subject matter. Healthy wealthy ones, buy out time for exercises, such as walks. For the not so wealthy, walking is part of their daily transportation. And in so doing, they exercise daily.

John nodded, as he contributed, "So what some wealthy car owners do - walk exercises - as an end to itself. Non car owners do as a means to an end.

James replied, "You are on point John. And if they must walk, why not do so in a cheerful disposition, to get the best from that 5,10,15, or even 30 minutes spent in each walk session?

"Sometimes when I'm in my car, and I see persons walking cheerfully under the nutritional early morning sun, I miss those days, when I was in their place. My walk was so cheerful and dignified, that those in their cars will think there was something else in this guy's walk."

John smiled.

"Yes James. Those days. And there was something special in your walk. Not just your walk, in anything you do.

James smiled.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Amoizo in the delivery room, pushed her baby with pains and positive confessions.

Ehcu in the waiting room prayed for their safety with faith.

During the past twenty-four hours he had slept for less than an hour. Amoizo the wife had been contracting for same period.

He was still in his work clothes. Few minutes after he returned home, Amoizo's contraction became intense. He had to forsake the chicken soup he was preparing. Infact, he had dreamt of eating for supper.

Together with his sister, and a dear friend of Amoizo, they drove off to the hospital, arriving at 10:23pm.

He went here and there. Getting this and that, at the medics request.

Mentally and physically he was exhausted. A little break came around 4:34am., he lay down to sleep in the waiting room.

As he later learnt from the wife, the medics told her, "The real contraction will start in the evening or early tomorrow morning. Because your cervix isn't yet open.

Thirty minutes after he lay down to sleep, he heard a voice - a shouting voice.

He was half certain that was his wife's voice. He sat closer to the delivery room, as he started praying.

Then Amoizo mentioned that name. The name, their unique name for the Almighty God. Then Ehcu was certain it was his wife. He continued praying - prayer of thanksgiving.

Ehcu believed in the efficacy of prayers. Jesus' words at Luke 18:1 "Men should always pray and never give up," resounds deeply with him.

Ehcu believes that: Prayer keeps a christian in faith. It keeps a christian in faith as he does everything practical to overcome a challenge. It keeps a christian in faith when everything practical has been done.

He believes that: Prayer is a christian's first, major, best, and last remedy to any challenge.

Later, as Amoizo told her husband: "The nurses had left me, because my cervix was not open. When my shouting became intense, they checked my cervix and were surprised how a cervix that wasn't open suddenly became wide enough.

Wide enough despite the drugs and injections given to delay further "fake" contractions as they put it."


Twenty six minutes after Ehcu was awakened by the familiar voice, a nurse opened the delivery room, stepped into the waiting room and asked, "Who is Amoizo's husband?"

Ehcu stepped forward, as the Nurse said, "Congrats."

The loved ones woke up to the news that Veny (God Gifted), Somtochukwu is now manifest among men.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

In a conversation with herself, Hilda said, “I hope this coach can help me. He came highly recommended. Gush! I’m in a mess again. Didn’t see this coming. Why has it always been this way. In any area of my life, at a point I will be on the mountain, after some period I will be in the valley. And just rot in the valley.


During my 1st degree, up until my third year I was among the very few who had a first class. Then those two missing scores in my fourth year affected my grades such that I slipped into a 2.1. And I never recovered from that fall. In fact, looking back, I gave up on the first class quest after those missing scores.

Three months into my first job, it was established I was the best among the new entrants. Until my negligence cost the company a lucrative contract. I never recovered from that fall. The HR department did their best to encourage me. I couldn’t forgive myself. I won’t blame them for letting me go after 14 months.

Meanwhile marriage found me. Dayo was a great guy. During the first few years, our marriage seemed to have been made in heaven. The twins, our bundle of joy arrived.

After a while, we started having issues. Quarrels, every week. Till the day Dayo slapped me. That was it, I picked my things and the twins and left the marriage. I just wanted to ‘pepper’ him. This time around Dayo didn’t care. The divorce was finalized last year. He has moved on, re-married.

I learnt he now looks younger, happier, and fresher. The new wife is really doing well. Those little free things like happily preparing and dishing his meals, sex, making the home a more peaceful place, etc. I would have used to endear him to myself, I only did as the mood leads me. In fact the decent man got tired of making issues out of it. He became a celibate, took responsibility for his meals, and only returned home to sleep.

And here I am regretting why I acted hastily, why I allowed resentment, pride, overwhelming anxiety, and the desire to be the better one before others make me a less better wife.

Two weeks before he slapped me, I had used my teeth and nails on him, not once but twice. He didn’t retaliate. Perhaps when I raised my hands again, he thought another nail attack was coming, hence the slap. Why did I allow those online persons to put ideas into my head? Why did I allow others to interfere unnecessarily in my marriage? Most times I invited them into my marriage.

Then I got this great job offer. As usual the company was proud of their pick, yet inside of me, I had this premonition that this too won’t last. That another mistake is on its way. Then it happened. I slipped during a presentation which gave our competitor the advantage.

Hmm, the Directors said I should get over it. That next time I should be careful. Yet I can’t forgive myself. The HR Manager did her best. Two months down the line, I confided to her, I haven’t really gotten over it. Then she set up an appointment with this coach. I hope he has a solution. I can’t go on living like this.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

In a conversation with herself, Hilda said, “I hope this coach can help me. He came highly recommended. Gush! I’m in a mess again. Didn’t see this coming. Why has it always been this way. In any area of my life, at a point I will be on the mountain, after some period I will be in the valley. And just rot in the valley.


During my 1st degree, up until my third year I was among the very few who had a first class. Then those two missing scores in my fourth year affected my grades such that I slipped into a 2.1. And I never recovered from that fall. In fact, looking back, I gave up on the first class quest after those missing scores.

Three months into my first job, it was established I was the best among the new entrants. Until my negligence cost the company a lucrative contract. I never recovered from that fall. The HR department did their best to encourage me. I couldn’t forgive myself. I won’t blame them for letting me go after 14 months.

Meanwhile marriage found me. Dayo was a great guy. During the first few years, our marriage seemed to have been made in heaven. The twins, our bundle of joy arrived.

After a while, we started having issues. Quarrels, every week. Till the day Dayo slapped me. That was it, I picked my things and the twins and left the marriage. I just wanted to ‘pepper’ him, to make him come begging, like I have done before. This time around Dayo didn’t care. The divorce was finalized last year. He moved on, re-married.

I learnt he now looks younger, happier, and fresher. The new wife is really doing well. Those little free things like happily preparing and dishing his meals, sex, making the home a more peaceful place, etc. I would have used to endear him to myself, I only did as the mood led me. In fact the poor man got tired of making issues out of it. He became a celibate, took responsibility for his meals, and only returned home to sleep.

And here I am regretting why I acted hastily, why I allowed resentment, pride, overwhelming anxiety, and the desire to be the better one before others make me a less better wife.

Two weeks before he slapped me, I had used my teeth and nails on him, not once but twice. He didn’t retaliate, he just pushed me away. Perhaps when I raised my hands again, he thought another nail attack was coming, hence the slap.

Why did I allow those online persons to put ideas into my head? Why did I allow others to interfere unnecessarily in my marriage? Most times I invited them into my marriage.

Then I got this great job offer. As usual the company was proud of their pick, yet inside of me, I had this premonition that this too won’t last. That another mistake is on its way. Then it happened. I slipped during a presentation which gave our competitor the advantage.

Hmm, the Directors said I should get over it. That next time I should be careful. Yet I can’t forgive myself. The HR Manager did her best. Two months down the line, I confided to her, I haven’t really gotten over it. Then she set up an appointment with this coach. I hope he has a solution. I can’t go on living like this.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Stanley said, “The kids are back to school, our rent is one month over due, and this business isn’t generating much anymore.
Sometimes the financial obligations keep me up in the night…sometimes I forget my self, such that when someone calls me, I come back with a jerk.”

Gina adviced, “If you continue with that mental state, you will make things worse. Your health will be affected, and remember if anything happens to you, it won’t make it easy for your wife and kids.”

Stanley replied, "Yes, I know. right now all I need is a miracle. I don’t see how or where this struggling business will bring the money needed."

Gina said, “Yesterday, I planned leaving home before 8a.m. I entered the kitchen, plugged in the electric cooker and it wasn’t coming up. I fiddled with it for about two minutes, same thing. I prayed, asking God for a miracle, as that was the only option I had to heat my breakfast…I plugged it in again, the red light came up…I said 'God, thank…' suddenly the red light died down, and it didn’t come up again.

"Hmm…I am not a technical person, and the technician around won’t be at his shop till 8:30a.m. It was 7:10am. With a kitchen knife, I screwed the bottom panel open. I studied the connecting wires and saw one that was off, burnt short. I joined the two ends together, then tried to screw back the bottom panel. It wasn’t fitting. I had no time for that, having checked that it was safe to plug in without the panel, I did so. Alas the red light came up and I had my breakfast. Then left home a braver man for using my God given brain to find a solution to an unexpected problem.

“At the end I asked myself this question: “Which will be better: To allow my child find a solution to a challenge that I know is within his power or to step in and solve it for him?"

Stanley asked, “Are you now saying it is wrong to ask for a financial miracle to take care of these pressing needs?"

Gina replied, "I’m saying you should first ask God to give you wisdom to do what you need to do, then thank him when you have done each of what you need to do. Then thank him again, when you start receiving the results of your efforts. First things first, my friend.”

#ObservationsofanIntentionalVictor.

Before Covid Lockdown, he usually begs for =N=200 every morning to eat breakfast.

In the rented office space we share as at then, more often than not he was behind on the bills. And the custodians often embarrassed him.

Often, some of us will pay his share month after month. Often, his clothes were faded, just hanged on him - shapeless. He was pale, and looked hungry.

Even at that you can still notice his beauty. With some good food, this guy’s good looks will become glaring.

One morning after Covid lockdown, someone approached me. It was when he greeted that I recognized him as that same guy. He looked handsome, fresh, and gained some weight. He was even developing a big tummy.

His clothes looked clean, smart and fitted. Who says money can’t bring out one’s beauty?

“What have you been up to?” I asked? “When most groaned under Covid lockdown, na fresh up you go do.”

He laughed. “Bros na God o.” He replied.

“Of course, first na God, let’s sit somewhere, you have to tell me practically how God did it.” I said.

We sat and he began with how two years before Covid, he tried his hands on many things after he was out of regular employment. Submitted applications. Learnt coding.

Then he stumbled across Forex Trading. Any little money he got from a programming gig, he traded Forex with it. He was on a loosing streak.

He taught about joining a platform, where they will simply receive instructions on what to trade.

The drawback for him was that he may be too comfortable and give up learning how to trade. And without mastering the game, it would affect his plan to trade for others. So he forged on.

Then he developed a strategy during the Covid period. And boom! He struck gold. Now he trades for others.

Of course he knows the winning streak won’t last forever, so he looks for ways to hedge against loss that would cripple his funds or those of his clients.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

With Love.

Things weren’t easy at all for the family. Their father had just retired from a government job, and they relocated closer home. Things were tough. Really tough.

Investments their Dad made to sustain the family after retirement didn’t yield the expected returns. It was like starting from square one for the family.

A family that was very comfortable, that extended a helping hands to others, now struggled to feed. With seven children, it was difficult.

In this chaos, the older children, had to hustle. The first two, wanted to further their education. The hunger was there even if the means seemed not to. And further they did.

Now let’s focus on the fourth child. He was barely twelve years, when he started learning how to fix phones.

He was so good, that through this means he contributed greatly to the family’s purse. Often helping out his two older ones who were in school.

Smart guy, he had eyes beyond phone repairs. For he sensed that soon the market would be crowded. Also he knew that his income from just repairs won’t be scalable.

So he went into trading of phone accessories. He managed the business so well, that a few years later, he opened his first phone plaza. Then a second, then a third.

He has the kind and generous nature of his late father. In his late twenties, he ventured into philanthropic work. Setting up a foundation for it, a few years later.

So far the foundation has built houses for several widows, sponsored major operations for the sick, and provided a bore hole service in his clan, among others.

Look around there are many grass to grace stories. Your financial situation isn't unredeemable.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Noel and his cousin Kelvin, had an interesting conversation recently. First they conversed about the health issues of their aging parents.

They recalled their grandparents didn’t have such perplexing health issues.
Noel reminded Kelvin, “Well we didn’t meet our paternal grandparents. They were dead before we were born.” Kelvin concurred.

Noel continued, “But I met my maternal grandparents, Grandpa was strong till his death at eighty three. Grandma was strong till eighty seven. Mum brought her down, we all took care of her for two months, she was recuperating, nothing major actually. Then one day, she didn’t wake up.”

Kelvin chipped in, “I believe their lifestyle contributed to their good health and longetivity.”

Noel replied, “Yes. I agree. Their main occupation was farming, that exercised the whole body in a way that an hour daily in a gym doesn’t get close to. Also their food, direct from the farm, chemically processed food reduced to the barest minimum.”

Kelvin said, “Very true. Then they don’t really bother much. A roof over their head where they don’t pay rent. They gave the children the basics and transferred the other burden to the older children or if you want more, go ahead and figure it out yourself….” They both laughed.

Noel said, “Looking at my parents, Dad in his late 70s is healthier than mum. I knew that he was intentional about this.

"As far as I can remember, he habitually eats fruits, vegetables, and walks at any opportunity. At fifty he cut off alcohol entirely, was faithful to one woman, thereby preventing the chances of STDs, and typical women 'wahala'.
Always confessing that his minimum age is 85. Health wise, Dad was intentional.

"Sometimes I wish he was also that intentional about making money.” They both laughed again.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor

Kelvin replied, “Yes, talking about making money, I could see the situation in Nigeria isn’t getting easier…”

Noel answered, “Yes bro. The inflation isn’t funny. Yet I believe that those intentional about their finances aren’t as affected.

"In fact some of them with remote jobs or who earn in dollars are happy, may keep wishing that the dollar keeps getting stronger over the naira.

"And those who efficiently run a business, just have to adjust their prices accordingly.”

Kelvin said, “Yes, but the majority nko?’

Noel answered, “That’s the thing. Take health for instance, those who are intentional about their health enjoy the benefits, and they are few compared to others. Same way, those who are intentional about their finances will always be in the minority. It takes good strategy to be intentional about health and wealth.”

Kelvin chipped in, “How about the government, they aren’t making it easy.”

Noel replied, “I agree. The government can do much better. Yet most of us aren’t trying at all, at all. For instance an individual even in this country knows that if I can do A to Z, at least I will have the basics. How many of us will complete that A to Z? In fact how many of us have plotted at least one A to Z.”

Kelvin nodded at the other end.

Noel continued, “Look at you, right from childhood you wanted to live in Luxembourg. You studied computer sciences, not just a degree, you acquired professional certifications.

"Your first job was a lowly paid job, because it afforded you several opportunities to master your craft. Eventually you worked for a good company, with decent pay before relocating to Europe, as an IT expert. Even in your 'Promise land', after your regular job, you still invest hours working on something that you can call yours. Something that will fetch you financial wealth.

"You aren't satisfied with the chaff of the land, you want the gold of the land. So you make sacrifices which will enable you enjoy the land's gold.

"You are intentional.

"How many of us in Nigeria are intentional when it comes to financial wealth. Most hope to make it big via vices, politics, or we expect a random click in our business or career. Financial comfort takes intentionality. How much more Financial wealth.

"I’m not excluded. Thank God I am now awake, no longer heaping the blame on Government”

Kelvin chipped in, "And thank God you are no longer putting the blame on "witches and wizards," always "killing" them with "die by fire."

The cousins laughed so hard.


#ObservationsofanIntentionalVictor

Aya received the first message by 12.00am from a Bank.

By 3.00am, she received another from her asset manager.

Before 5.00am., another came from her pension custodians, followed by that from another bank

By 8am, she received another from another bank.

Well, she wasn't a fan for birthday wishes, and even if she was and the whole world forgot, these financial houses will never forget.

Then someone called. It was a representative from one of the banks that had earlier sent a text.

Even if she wasn't a fan for birthdays wishes, she was touched. It felt humane hearing a human voice, it felt warm.

After the wishes the rep. made enquiries about any issues with the bank's services....

After the call, Aya said to herself,

"There is something beautiful about a pleasant human voice, that technology can't duplicate."

#ObservationsofanIntentionalVictor

Anjinsan:
He said, "See o, during the inauguration of Kano's new Governor, the roof of the podium collapsed. He was fortunate to survive."

Not bothering to look at his phone, she replied, "No be that one e dey me. Na to calculate the cost of these goods."

After a few minutes, he spoke to her again, "Dem say NNPC go sell fuel for =N= 500. That means say oda filling station go sell for =N= 700 be that."

Visibly angry (because this one will affect her), she replied, " Which kine thing be that. Na so them won..."

In less than one minute she said all she wanted to. (because even if it affects her, she can't legally influence the outcome.)

Immediately, she stood up from the bench (Perhaps to avoid another bombshell from the informant of doom).

She brought out the goods she bought and continued with her calculations.

He continued on his phone, his hands scrolling up, and occasionally squinting his eyes as he read something.

She called out to him, "Director, abeg come help me calculate this thing, e be like say I dey do mistake."

He stood up, even as he walked towards her direction, his eyes was still on the phone.

=============================

Attention! Time! Attention! Time!

What we all have in common, but use differently.

The internet and trending topics have made it so easy for our time and attention to be consumed subtly, day in and day out.

Why do most persons habitually give attention to all manner of news?

Are they aware that such isn't good for one's health?

Watch what an expert says about this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wG54fZJUD2k

Can we incrementally grow in knowing what should consume our time and what shouldn't?

The internet, will you use it to better your life or waste your time, your life?

Observation of an Intentional Victor

Observing......

He called after 25 years.

My bosom childhood friend.

Some one close to me, recognized him, and he collected my number.

Six months after the call, we met in person.

There was a lot of catching up to do.

He has done so well in his career.

Financially, he is a big boy.

He was close to those in the state's corridor of power.

He is married to a beautiful, intelligent lady.

The marriage has produced lovely children - boys and girls.

We continued catching up on each other's life, even as he drove.

"So UC, tell me I learnt the women in Port-Harcourt are hot. How many do you have?" He asked.

"I looked at him, as he parked in front of a fruit garden.

Paraphrasing, what I first heard in my first year of marriage from a friend.

I replied: "The time, energy, and resources maintaining one woman - my wife - is enough for me. Add another woman? That means I no like myself now."

That said, I stepped out and got some fruits.

Back to the car, I noticed my guy had his head upwards with his hand on his brow.

"Are you okay?" I asked.

"Bro. Women wahala is choking me," he replied.

I gave some suggestions, on how to break free.

He listened, got himself together, as we continued to our destination.

Ten minutes later, he said, "Guy, check out that Chic, men....."

#observationofaneverydayguy

In a beautiful highbrow estate, a site manager and a contractor, took a walk.

After some minutes, the contractor said, "Segun, don't you like these houses?" Segun replied, "Any sane man would like such houses. Am I insane?"

The contractor laughed. "That site you are managing is a good avenue, to be like this one day."

Segun replied, "Really? The client and I agreed on a fee to manage that site. I'm okay with that."

The contractor continued, like the devil in the garden of Eden, "Oga, forget that thing, no one makes it big in this country without cutting corners. If you continue like this, you will remain small."

Segun laughed, then replied, "Some minutes ago, we talked about our assets, I that is like that, have more assets to my name than you do."

The contractor replied, "It's just for some time, now my eye don tear...give me a few years and you continue like this, your assets won't see the back of mine."

Segun shrugged his shoulders and said, "Oga, dishonesty in business isn't worth my peace of mind.'

#ObservationsofanIntentionalVictor

"This industry is lucrative. Any serious minded person will focus on either Career or Money."

"What's the difference?" Jim asked.

The grey headed Don in the industry continued, "Those who focus on money in the industry shortchange their stakeholders, take kick backs, etc...they make money in the short run. In the long run they loose out, because the industry is close knit, words spread, reputation is destroyed. They are out of a job/business.

"Those who focus on career in this industry are ethical professionals. Eventually their good reputation goes round. Because they are few, stakeholders demand for them, they set their prices, and eventually cash out big time."

Jim nodded, absorbing the wisdom from this industry sage.

#ObservationofanIntentionalVictor