Some have food but cannot eat; some can eat but have not food. We have food and we can eat – we should be grateful and redefined happiness and wealth.
I cannot help but ignore the increasing – spate of divorce in homes, unimaginable domestic violence, tribal hatred, ritual killings for wealth among our youths, spread of insecurity, political irresponsibility from our rulers, economic exploitation from business capitalist and environmental degradation across the country and the World at large – the major root cause of all the madness, resentment and endless cravings is the need for “MORE”.
In a world driven by material pursuits, where the pursuit of wealth, success, popularity, miracle and power often takes centre stage, it is essential to pause and reflect on the true essence of contentment and happiness. The simple yet profound statement, “Some have food they cannot eat, some can eat but have not food, we have food and we can eat – glory be to God,” encapsulates a powerful lesson on the relativeness of wealth, success, power, blessings, and ultimately happiness.
Oftentimes, we as humans, find ourselves trapped in a paradoxical cycle of desire and discontentment. men demanding more loyalty, respect, peace and sexiness from women; women wanting more freedom, power, all loving, rich, romantic, charismatic, and handsome man; citizen demanding better life from leaders and rulers; clerics – pastors and imam seeking more sheepish followers, and the latter seeking for signs, and wonders – deliverance and divine favour, etc. These are all good, and maybe the proper expectations. However, they are bound by varying constraints, realities, and maybe a question of whether or not the one expecting all this much, is deserving of his or her wish(ies). Maybe the answer lies in the mystery of why all our prayers are not yet answered. Anyways!
Though good, the possession of material wealth, power, freedom and popularity does not guarantee satisfaction and happiness, if one is unable to first master the art of contentment, and finding happiness in things money, power or fame cannot afford – such as good health, peace of mind, love, joy, laughter, family, touch of a life, and gratitude. The juxtaposition of those who have food they cannot eat and those who can eat but have not food highlights the paradox that abundance does not always equate to fulfilment.
Narrow as it is, the Society continues to links wealth with happiness, creating an illusion that the more one possesses, the happier they will be. However, the statement reminds us that happiness is not solely derived from the abundance of possessions but rather from the ability to appreciate and utilize what one has. True contentment lies not in amassing wealth but in recognizing and cherishing the blessings within one’s reach.
Success is a multifaceted concept that extends beyond material achievements. While professional accomplishments and recognition are commendable, true success encompasses a sense of purpose, personal growth, and positive impact. The lesson of having food to eat emphasizes that success should be measured not only by external markers but also by the internal fulfilment derived from meaningful experiences and relationships.
The juxtaposition in the statement invites us to consider the power of perspective. What may seem like a lack or an abundance is, in reality, a matter of how one perceives their circumstances. The ability to view life’s challenges and blessings through a lens of gratitude and humility is a key factor in cultivating contentment.
The expression “glory be to God” underscores the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the source of all blessings. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude allows individuals to find contentment in the recognition that every blessing, big or small, is a gift. This perspective shifts the focus from what one lacks to an appreciation for what one has been given.
In the pursuit of wealth, success, power, and happiness in 2024, the lesson of contentment teaches us that true fulfilment is not found only in the accumulation of possessions or external validations. Instead, it resides in a profound appreciation for the blessings at hand, a perspective that transcends material wealth, and an understanding that happiness is a state of mind. Embracing contentment becomes a powerful antidote to the relentless pursuit of more, offering a pathway to a richer, more meaningful life.
Contentment clear the storm and anxiety of not having enough. Anxiety from the world’s pressure not only causes frustration, but also blinds one from the opportunities that exist around us. Contentment helps create and improve self-dependency. It clears the mental pathway and allows new ideas and personalities needed to break forth to emerge. As we navigate the complexities of our existence in 2024, let us heed the wisdom within this lesson and find glory in the simplicity of gratitude. Refuse all forms of externalities whether from spouse, family, clerics, community, friends, or colleagues, that will tempt one into pressure – causing regrets, grumbling, pain, doubt, and striving with the jones. Let us be more deliberate in 2024 – manage your resources, and time wisely; protect your peace of mind and sanity. Be present and committed to a personal project or course this year. Refuse to kill yourself to please anyone; do not take up responsibilities that are not yours. Work hard but smarter- be quick to forgive, but do not forget; be careful do not be reckless. Take care of your health, enjoy your family and stop to see the beauty of the World around you. Remember, it is not your job to fight and/or die for the World – Jesus Christ is more than enough; just shine your light for the so see.
Change your lens if need be in 2024, to see how blessed you are. I pray we all find peace with ourselves and navigate the New Year gracefully.
Season’s greetings
Donald Ikenna Ofoegbu
Writes from Abuja, Nigeria
Ikennadonald@gmail.com
