REMEMBER

Clara returned to her room to study, having finished every grain of rice on her plate. With my usual routine, as a mother and wife, I had to remain in the kitchen to clean the dishes used for dinner in order to limit the work I’ll have to do the next morning. After about an hour, I entered her bedroom to kiss her, goodnight, only to realize that her cute torchlight was on, as well as, the main light bulb in her room as she read and I knew why.

 She put on her torch as a source of light to support her sight and aid in free movement in the room when the main electricity for the house went off, a few minutes before dinner. The main electricity power kicked back in during dinner and on entering her room and seeing the whole place so bright, she automatically forgot about the small torch that gave her light when the main power source was gone.

Two great lessons can be learnt from this: Clara forgot about the small torch; The small torch, despite how irrelevant its light was, didn't stop shining.

Many a time, it is quite easy for us humans to forget our past when we finally find a path that leads us to greater and better experiences on the ladder of life. We tend to easily forget about the very little sacrifices that the people in our past made for us to get to where we are today. Intentionally or unintentionally, we shut our doors to some old friends and family members who, in their own little way encouraged us to take that risk that led to that great opportunity that has brought us this far. it is easier to remember the direct and closest link to that success than any other. Also, it is easier to associate yourself with those directly related to the class you have attained now. Be careful about how you narrate your success story.

Again, if someone, whether by mere negligence or arrogance, forgets you and your efforts in their success story, don’t stop helping: your little advice still matters; your prayers are necessary; your efforts might still make a difference so don’t stop trying. Remember: the small torchlight still drew all its energy from within to shine all out, despite the fact that the light from the main bulb had belittled it completely and it was simply not recognized.  

Today, take some time off your busy schedule to remember your past: your decision to take that bold step might be as a result of that man’s single word or a simple gesture. The mere fact that you remember and appreciate the efforts made is enough to show your acknowledgment.