GRACEFUL

 

REFLECTIONS

Wisdom for the young by Innocent Adiele

 

Culled from Graceful  Issue 3   2021

Republished on  Sat 13/07/2025 01:42  a.m

THE COURAGE OF THE SQUIRREL

The Squirrels are members of the family of Sciuridea, a family that includes small or medium sized rodents. The squirrel family includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunk’s squirrels, marmots, flying squirrels and prairie dogs amongst other rodents.

Squirrels in Africa are eaten as a source of protein. For the most part of my childhood, I watched squirrels thrive in the woods near my house. However, there was one strange thing I watched the Squirrels do in my village. Most times, I would watch a small squirrel shout and then set out to pursue snakes as they crawled through the bushes. I have also seen squirrels being swallowed by snakes. But, never in my life have I ever seen a squirrel fight a python.

I once watched the National Geographic Channel which streams Wildlife experiences. On this fateful day, I watched keenly as a squirrel fought a big python. The squirrel was in an old desolate Anthill when the Python located it. 

Something amazing happened as I watched on. 

Instead of the rodent to run, it stood and screamed viciously at the invading Python. I was confused as to the reason why little rodent has so much courage So, the squirrel watched the Python menacingly approach, yet, it stood its ground. You could feel the squirrel had a defence plan. Not until the python came so close that the squirrel with every strength in its body started raising dust from the ground into the python's eyes. 

The action was very furious that the evading python turned around and escaped. An armed snake with deadly stealthy movement and speed lost a duel to the poor squirrel.

The Python is a general constricting snake in the Pythonidae family native to the tropics and subtropics of the eastern Hemisphere. The namepython was proposed by Francois Marie Daudin in 1803 for non-venomous snakes. 

Pythons are dangerous. And just like the poor squirrel, our everyday life is threatened. Circumstances come at us like a big python; dangerous, rebellious and wanting to devour. 

How can one confront these financial, health and even social threats? What are we confronted with today? Divorce, suicide mindedness, domestic violence, unemployment, among many others. Notwithstanding, there is a word for you today that says “take courage, the Squirrel succeeded!”

I could remember the fateful days my world stood still. Many people were dying in my family. I lost two sisters in one year. Since the death of my beloved, I have never been that empty and lonely. 

As I wondered and pondered on what lay ahead, I quickly remembered the Squirrel fight with the big Python. I also heard the song “Courage brother, do not stumble though your path be darkest night”. I took courage in the fact that once there is light, there is hope. The thing that blooms must blossom... a state in time of beauty... freshness and vigor, an opening to higher perfection.

So, courage is defined as the quality of a confident character not to be afraid or intimidated easily but incautious or inconsistent. It is having the ability to do things which one finds frightening. As the earth passes through this pandemic, courage must stand out as a pillar upon which our judgments must stand. Everything is on the lockdown, economic, spiritual, and healthcare and other social indices.

But, just like Joshua the captain after Moses, God is asking us to be courageous. He is asking us to move forward. He is backing us and we must win in the face of the menacing Python called “Life”. 

When we act under divine command, victory is assured.

 

The INSENSITIVITY OF A HARE

Insensitivity is defined as a lack of concern for others, feeling or lack of response to physical sensation. It is also an unwillingness to give importance to something, or a lack of reaction to something.According to Wikipedia, a Hare is a fast-running, long-eared mammal that resembles a large rabbit, having very long hind legs and typically found in grassland or open woodland. Hares and rabbits are laporids belonging to the genus lepus. Hares are classified in the same family of rabbits. They are similar in size and form to rabbits and have similar herbivorous diets, but generally have larger ears and live solely or in pairs. Most are fast runners (60km/h), have native to Africa.

THE HARE EATEN BY THE PYTHON

 

I have an inclination for watching the National Geographic Wild channels. I do gain much wisdom from watching the behaviour of animals. This helps

me to compare their behaviour to that of humans and draw out life lessons.

This day, as I was watching my favourite channel, I saw a hare lurking carelessly in the forest, about 3pm I supposed, probably looking for what to eat. It was alone in a solitary forest.

Unfortunately, a python spotted it and started moving towards it until there was little distance between the both animals. The python moved slowly, but focused and daring.

As the reptile got close, the hare was insensitive, actually oblivious of her environment. The summary was that the python launched at it in a fluid motion and had the hare swallowed up.

Compared to what I have always known, the Hare is notably faster than the Python, but it allowed itself to be destroyed by the evading reptile.

Life experiences could be like the story of the insensitive Hare. The Hare has the capacity to escape danger by speed. By experience, it knows

that the Jungle and its hazards. This might not have been the Hare’s first encounter with these threatening reptiles. However on this day, it chose to be careless and eventually lost its life.

When I think about this, my mind runs to young people who leave for higher institutions. At home, they are taught morals and family values. Some even come from calm quiet families.

Most young people get carried away dancing to the sound of freedom and liberty from home. Probably, they may have been warned about the influences of peer  groups, societies that may not help them further their goals in life.

This new-found freedom exposes them to all forms of corruption and parental ideas become old school stuff. Statistics has shown that drug addiction, prostitution, cultism, street fight and other violence are attributable to their insensitivity to their environment.

If young people know that “not all that glitter is gold”, they will learn easily to manage today's toxic environment. But, like the Hare, they are insensitive.

I am not advocating that there should be no social interaction. No!

My interest in this scripture is that the "righteous" mentioned there could be pursued by something. The knowledge of what is chasing you defines the extent to which you run to escape danger. Until you understand this, your life becomes as endangered as the Hare.

In this rat race called Life, it's important to pause and find out what is pursuing you. Could it be the menacing Python? How have you evaluated your environment?.

Most people have lost their lives just because they are simply insensitive. Take your time to check out the friends you keep. Consider their values and reconcile them

It is worth staying alive rather than being swallowed in the belly of Insensitivity. Examine your circle today and stay safe.

Do your ideas, visions, goals and commitments appear the same? If not, like a wise mother monkey, it's time to escape with your young one because of the Pythons .

 

Graceful                      

The Reasons why we need to stand firm and strong

 by  Chinyere  Nwakanma culled  from  Graceful  Issue  2  2021

Republished Monday  13/07/2025  01.21  am  BST

 

Life can throw surprises at people, but as a man thinks in his heart so is he. No matter  who you are   your ability    to navigate  the storms  of life, decides  the journey of your life .The   storms of the last  one year  have seen many broken into pieces,  but  you do not need to allow  the issues  of life to break you. The men who triumphed in life,like Joe Biden are men who live on hope. Even as  president  Barack Obama has  always  raised  the topic of hope in his  speeches and books  Hope  and faith are what  made  them the men they are today. Many people might think otherwise, but if you must succeed in life, you need to always have it in  your mind, that no matter what is happening today, that tomorrow will be better.

If  you  surround  yourself with  people who can only  see your failures  and mistakes then  you will live your life forever in  self  pity  always  seeing  yourself as  a failure.

The man that failed is the man that went to sleep inside the bed of failure, after failing so many times.                                                            

Successful people are always positive and forward looking. If you have to listen to the people or voices of failure or that you are already a destroyed person based on past events, which means that you will always be looking backward and not forward. If you go back to make the same mistakes that made things to go wrong, then you did not learn any lessons. You will consign yourself to a lifetime of sorrow and pillow crying. But you are bigger than that, because there is hope for every living person. Hope only dies in the graveyard. Many people have gone to commit suicide for others, because of pettiness and bullying.  You can do better. Move on and do not look back.

 

• This is your life and not another person’s life. So you need to make the best of your talent, time, money and everything given to you as you will render an account of them all. Many people are in places they do not like today, because they have misused the opportunities given to them.
• If you fail you will have no one to blame. Even if you have people who made you to look backwards and fail, they will move on, while you are crying.
• Nobody can determine who you will become unless you have  offered up your life to them. You  are on a  journey  and  at  the end of the journey you will be leaving this world alone and rendering your account.
• If you end up having kids, no child will listen to the reason and excuses why you failed.

                                                                                   

• You have a legacy to keep for generations to come so if you keep a bad legacy you are on your own. History will remember you for the negative and your great grandchildren will see what you have done with disdain .The name calling by people do not make you what they are saying. But staying positive means that you can rewrite your own history.
• Whether you succeed or not is up to you. When you have no money in your pocket, the hunger will be yours. This is the reason why you must hold your job and be the  best at it.

If you are consigned to a mental hospital people will come and visit  you for  few times  and after  sometimes  you will be on your own , so why are you worried  to the point of breaking  down. You can only have a mental health breakdown, if you give in to situations that keep you stressed out. You will develop high blood pressure and the hospital bed is for you alone, if you are thinking too much about past events. There is nobody that has gone away from this life with what they have on earth.

REFLECTIONS

Beyond Feeling  The Blues:

A Practical Guide to Navigating Low Mood and Emotional Dip

Monday  27/05/2025  16.02  Pm  BST

Life throws curveballs. Sometimes, the weight of the world seems to settle on your shoulders, casting a gray shadow over everything. These low moods are a normal part of the human experience. But when those dips become persistent, disrupting your daily life and sapping your joy, it's time to take a closer look. This guide aims to navigate the space between temporary blues and potential depression, offering practical strategies for lifting your mood, recognizing warning signs, and knowing when to seek professional help.

Understanding Your Emotional Landscape:

Before diving into specific techniques, it's crucial to understand your own emotional landscape. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• How long have you been feeling down? Is it a fleeting cloud passing overhead, or has it been a persistent storm?

• What are the triggers for your low moods? Stressful events, lack of sleep, or even certain weather patterns can play a role.

• How is your low mood impacting your daily activities? Are you struggling to get out of bed, complete work tasks, or maintain healthy relationships?

• Are there physical symptoms associated with your low mood? Fatigue, changes in appetite, or headaches might be additional clues.

These questions can help you assess the severity of your situation. If your low mood is fleeting and doesn't significantly disrupt your life, self-care strategies can be incredibly effective.

Strategies for Lifting Your Mood:

1. Prioritize Sleep: A well-rested brain is a happy brain. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to wind down and prepare for restful sleep. Prioritize getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine and create a sleep-conducive environment in your bedroom.

2. Embrace Movement: Exercise releases endorphins, natural mood boosters. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it's a brisk walk in the crisp morning air, a heart-pumping dance session, or a gentle yoga flow.

3. Connect with Others: Humans are social creatures. Social interaction and connection are vital for mental well-being. Reach out to friends and family, join a club or support group, or volunteer for a cause you care about. These connections can provide a sense of belonging and support.

4. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress and improve emotional regulation. There are many free apps and online resources to get you started. Integrate mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga into your daily routine. These practices can help manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and cultivate a sense of calm.

5. Fuel Your Body: Fuel your body with nutritious foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and complex carbohydrates. Limit processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats, as these can negatively impact your mood. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides your body and brain with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. Don't underestimate the power of a healthy diet for positive mental health.

6. Embrace Nature: Spending time outdoors has a proven positive impact on mood. Go for a walk in the park, sit by a river and listen to the water flow, or simply open a window and let in the fresh air. Immersing yourself in nature can be a powerful mood booster.

7. Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Make time for things that bring you joy, whether it's curling up with a good book, listening to your favorite music, or pursuing a creative hobby. Schedule time for these activities and prioritize them in your week.

8. Practice Gratitude: Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can improve mood and overall well-being. Start a gratitude journal and write down 3 things you're grateful for each day.

9. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Our inner critic can be a harsh taskmaster. Learn to recognize negative thought patterns and challenge them with more realistic and positive self-talk.

10. Limit Screen Time: Social media and constant exposure to screens can negatively impact mood. Set boundaries around screen time, especially before bed. Prioritise real-world interactions and activities like spending time with loved ones or engaging in hobbies

Recognising Depression Warnings:

If your low mood persists for more than two weeks, significantly impacts your daily life, and involves several of the following symptoms, it's important to seek professional help:

• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little, changes in eating habits)

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Fatigue or lack of energy, even after a good night's sleep

• Increased anxiety or irritability

• Suicidal thoughts or plans

Seeking Professional Help:

Depression is a treatable mental health condition. There is no shame in seeking help. Effective medications, psychotherapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and support groups are available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

Remember, You Are Not Alone:

Feeling down is a normal part of the human experience. We all experience life's ups and downs. But you don't have to suffer in silence. There are resources available, and people who care about you. Here are some additional tips to support your journey:

• Create a Self-Care Plan: When you're feeling low, it can be hard to know where to start. Develop a personalized self-care plan that outlines specific techniques you can employ when you're feeling down. This might include your favorite mindfulness exercise, a list of people you can reach out to for support, or a calming activity you find particularly helpful.

• Be Patient and Gentle with Yourself: Recovery, whether from a temporary low mood or from depression, takes time and effort. Don't expect instant results. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.

• Talk Openly and Honestly: Talking about how you're feeling can be incredibly cathartic. Share your struggles with loved ones who care about you. Their support and understanding can be a powerful tool for healing.

• Take Breaks and Avoid Overscheduling: Burning the candle at both ends can exacerbate feelings of burnout and low mood. Schedule time for rest and relaxation. Don't be afraid to say no to additional commitments when you're feeling overwhelmed.

• Seek Professional Help if Needed: There is no shame in seeking professional help. Therapists are trained to help you understand your emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and work towards a happier and healthier you.

Remember, you are not alone. Millions of people experience low moods and depression. By utilizing self-care strategies, recognizing warning signs, and seeking professional help when needed, you can navigate these emotional dips and create a life filled with joy and fulfilment.

 

 

 

 

When you  feel like  giving  up  remember that  there are many people  who  love you  and are  depending on you  for food,for  shelter  and for  love.Remember  the  people  who  your  phone  calls mean  a  lot to.Difficult moments  do not last  forever.Always  look  to the  sunny  sides  of life  and  embrace  hope-

Do not give up!!!!

Graceful 26th  May  2025