TThis phrase, which is commonly used in Nigerian slang this year, reverberates with a sense of tenacity and resolve: “No gree for anybody this year.” As I think of the hilarious yet educational nature of its essence, I can’t help but think of a scene that perfectly defines its spirit. Amid the difficulties that life presents, the statement becomes a rallying cry for unyielding determination. It’s a tribute to resiliency, to the resolve to give in to defeats and failures. Despite the challenges that have been presented, the Nigerian spirit remains unwavering, reiterating the idea that this year, there would be no one or anything that can prevent one from pursuing their aspirations. Not only does the word become a slang term, but it also becomes a mantra, serving as a tribute to the unyielding spirit that characterizes the year.
When I was only ten years old, my mother an educator with a sense of simplicity imparted to me a profound lesson that has continued to echo throughout my existence. This instructive experience occurred during my formative years. She was adamant that the achievement of happiness was the most essential component of life. At the time, I had no clue that this simple, yet profound insight would serve as the basis for my perspective on the global society. I was completely unaware of its significance.
I was confronted with the question that is believed to be the most essential when I was in the process of beginning my secondary school journey through formal schooling. The question was, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The word “happy” was the one word that I boldly engraved as a response, and it wonderfully summed up that which I wanted to do and what I wanted to accomplish. However, it is important to highlight that the response from my teacher was not in correlation with the response I gave. Specifically, the Math teacher and social studies teacher both looked at me and asserted that I was unable to acquire a knowledge of the core nature of the general question in class, and they questioned the legitimacy of such a straightforward objective answer at a young age rather than the conventional response they were anticipating.
I did not waver in my stance in the face of their uncertainty, and I insisted that it was they who were incapable of understanding the profound knowledge that was communicated through my words. It was not a denial of desire or the pursuit of goals that had value; rather, it was an assertion that happiness was not only a destination but rather an integral component of the journey. This was a significant statement. I have always believed that the pursuit of happiness, contentment, and a sense of success is the very essence of living a life with a purpose. This has been the case throughout my whole life.
This event from childhood, which appears to be harmless, displays a spirit of rebellion against the conventions of society, which frequently dictate clearly defined routes to achievement. This defiance is brought about by the fact that the event occurred. As a result, it serves as a reminder that, despite the complexities of life, the pursuit of pleasure is not only valid but also vital. Throughout my journey through the complex web of life, this is a sentiment that continues to guide my understanding of existence and has an impact on the decisions that I make.
I therefore hope that as we grow and go through this year and every other year, we will pursue only that wish that makes us happy and not at competition thereby keeping the society at peace.
May the year be like a blank sheet full of happy dreams, and may each stroke be a sign of hope and joy. Let’s make this a great year together, with goals in hand and a HAPPY hopeful heart! “Cheers to fresh starts and the promise of 2024, here is my Happy New Year to the community.
