Obinna Orgazi
Fifteen years ago, I moved to England seeking a fresh challenge. I wanted to explore more, learn more, and achieve more. South London became my home; a place where I lived comfortably and created lasting, beautiful memories. Over the years, I’ve also had the privilege of traveling to destinations others only dream of. Yet, no matter where I went, I felt a persistent call from my ancestors urging me to return home to Umuaka.
Now that I’m back, life has presented its share of challenges. From dealing with impolite interactions and frequent power outages to poorly maintained roads and less tranquil surroundings, adapting to life here has not been easy. The most significant hurdle has been finding the resources to bring my visions to life. Who would have imagined that constructing a building would take me over two years with no end in sight, especially considering my past accomplishments?
My wife often reminds me of Albert Einstein’s words: “A quiet and modest life brings more joy than a pursuit of success bound with constant unrest.” While this resonates with many, I believe some of us are meant to strive for greater things. For those of us driven by ambition, settling for a “quiet and modest” life feels almost impossible, even if this relentless pursuit sometimes becomes the very source of our discontent.
“To build is difficult. Thus, no matter your level of anointing or capital outlay, nkwukwu otu onye agaghi ezu. It is only those who have not undertaken a grand vision, be it secular or sacred, that will not understand the pain that comes with pioneering a grand vision.
It is such people that will not understand how disappointing it could be for you to see supportive people who should know better think you are taking them for a ride. It is such people that scream, if you know you cannot do it why did you go do it? Incidentally, when it goes well, you will not see these critics commend you.
I admit it may be shameful to borrow or delay payments, but I consider and will always consider this a small sacrifice in the pursuit of my vision.
I am not deterred. Rather, I am happy I personally opened my own cupboard for you to see the skeleton therein. You my dear accusers and mockers, can you have the same courage to publicly open yours? Can you be called a debtor for a noble cause? Can you be called a debtor in the pursuit of your own vision and dreams? Or will you allow your dreams to die because no one can trust you enough to lend you money?” – Ezeikolomuo.
I won’t! You shouldn’t. Never stop believing!