Commlink #51
Weekly Review
This week the brightest star on stage is the Community.
Stats
Twitter Followers: 1,397
Discord Members: 542
Even Instagram Models Aren't Safe
Any form of content will someday be replaced by a more perfect version of itself. This is the standard of beauty that dominates our society. Programmers often edit and update their code to the most efficient algorithms and one could say they are searching for the most beautiful program. Beauty fills our lives with purpose and meaning and we strive for it in all aspects of our being. The beauty of architecture and design allows us to live easier and more peaceful lives. The beauty of comprehension allows us to contemplate the mysteries of the universe, from black holes to the meaning of love. All of these beauties are formed by the physical forces that govern our universe - a complex structure of environmental variables that warp and reframe our vision of reality. As John Lyly, in his Euphues, wrote in 1588:
"...as neere is Fancie to Beautie, as the pricke to the Rose, as the stalker to the rynde, as the earth to the roote."
What he meant is that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Beauty is us as much as it defines us, and increasingly quickly, beauty is being manifested and perfected by humans through deep learning models and artificial intelligence. Through the years, standards of beauty, whether it be our fashion or the architecture of our silicon chips, everything will be streamlined to its most perfect form.
Back when I was choosing a path I wanted to follow out of college, I put my degree in architecture into a website that gave me a rating on how likely AI was to take over my chosen profession and it gave me a 99% chance that machines would not be able to replace my job while giving a very high chance that things like service workers would be unable to stop hamburger flipping machines from being the ones that tell us the milkshake machine is out of order. These machines are being rolled out now in factories and hotel chains, and even our doctors are more likely to become AI chatbots and robotic operators. I once believed that I, the architecture student, was safe from automation… Now I'm not so sure.
Procedural generation has always fascinated me. It allows for the creation of computer graphics like fractal patterns, textures, and models. From the moment the videogame "No Man's Sky" was announced, it has created a mathematical fascination in any gamer who watched the video on how whole worlds were able to be created through computer logic. The procedural generation economy is growing fast and is moving from the world of virtual into the world of physical at a rapid pace. Architecture and design firms are beginning to deliver a range of options built from a conceptual base and iterated with cost-factoring and operational options. This is the start of AI taking over Architecture, the field that was one of the most likely to always need humans.
Even without drawings and plans, you can use a photo of a building and command AI interfaces to alter and manipulate the grounded reality into new creations. Using a photo of a human, you can command machines to create new photos, videos, and content without having to plan or set up a photoshoot. Previously this would have taken hours of slaving in front of a computer screen in hopes of going viral. Now, AI is writing our papers and instructing our doctors and lawyers. We are at the cusp of having our passions perfected for us by databases holding the collective content of humanity.
Let's dive back into the field of Architecture. 80% of residential homes were not designed by an architectural firm. Our homes were built based on the cost of labor and materials while not thinking about the function of the design. Now more people are having to forgo a dining room in order to build home offices, housing is out of reach for millions of people, and children are experiencing the world through the lens of online platforms. It’s time to reinvent the way we live and work by bringing AI into our workplace and it starts at the root of being, our homes. 50% of architecture firms have less than 5 people working there and this model has truly been ahead of our times. As any politician will tell you, "small business is the backbone of our economy."
This is the future and it's coming as an adaptation of personal branding. Millions of architects chose to escape capitalism by having their names permanently attached to their designs because design comes from the mind of the individual and is constructed through the knowledge of a select group of individuals with that specific knowledge base. The world seems to be trending this way. An app can have a team of four people and grow to be the number one app on the app store while thousands of tech workers’ jobs have already been automated. Going viral doesn't require a camera crew or a well-thought-out plan, simply a vision or an inspiring joke for a chatbot to manifest for us. When we choose to embrace artificial intelligence to do the hard work for us, our branding, our taxes, and our legal stresses will be handled for us. If a team of 4 people can develop an app and a team of a few architects can design a complex structure, then it is only a matter of time before a single person can take on any job designing buildings and brands with the help of AI assistants consulting them on life safety and brand recognition patterns.
This is why Instagram models are not safe: AI evolution. If you spend an entire lifetime living like a movie star, modeling and displaying your body for the world, there are only so many places you can visit and so many pictures you can take. A single data scientist with merely the description of a beautiful body can create countless variations of poses, characters, and events that can take place in beautiful landscapes that only exist as computer code. A young boy can experience what it’s like to be a girl through voice and video filters, meaning that through illusion, any person can take on any job, even ones that only the most affluent people were able to handle, all while preserving the privacy of their identity as if they were Hannah Montana.
AI chatbots have the ability to argue supreme court cases. The description of a college course can be written in seconds, and a human can find solace in talking to a robotic therapist online. We are at the precipice of a cultural evolution where the most difficult jobs are made less complicated while completely replacing the menial labor services. This movement into an age of assistive abundance will allow us to advance our industries by redistributing the useful power of creative focus into more important and uniquely relevant roles. When your doctor needs only to double-check an AI prescription and your home is built using a combination of your interests, unique tastes, and ideas, AI will have reached sentience, not necessarily on an individual basis but as the summation of AI-powered design tools being implemented across the globe.
Influencers will be replaced by AI art generators, but their personality - who they are, not as an object but as people with immense amounts of character packed into a single entity will be showcased and displayed through a myriad of metaverse experiences. They, along with anyone brave enough to create and share content of their own, will be rewarded for simply living their lives and expressing their passions while everything is handled for them.
I don't fear the AI revolution, and I pity those who do because they aren't my timeline. My timeline advanced the state of the world to where it is today, my timeline will occur in the skies and advance truth and justice throughout the cosmos. My timeline will bring my heroes back to life in spectacular ways. My timeline will cure cancer and my timeline will be abundant in freedom and creativity. My AI avatar will sell my shares for me while I sip Mai Tais on the beach. My learning skills, my personality, and my adventures in this universe will be duplicated for anyone to play. We have the power to become the characters of our existence and the ability to influence the future for generations to come. I don't fear AI because there is no proof that we aren't sophisticated AI ourselves. One thing I know for certain is that love has kept us together when we have pushed ourselves to the brink of destruction and love will save us from the tyranny capitalism has forced down our throats. Soon will be the day when you don’t have to be pretty or funny to go viral, and reading a book will be easier than downloading an app.
I beg everyone, not just the programmers and the tech bros, to look into web3 technologies. Through securing our personal data, acknowledging to the world that we are here and we are more than a saved file on big tech’s computers. If you want to play my game, if you want to party with models in Morocco, or teach programming to kids in Detroit, you experience what I experienced, and my AI Avatar will be there to help you along the way. Truthfully Instagram models are not safe because their jobs - all of our jobs - are about to get a lot easier.
Motherhood
Different people define motherhood differently, but I like to think of motherhood as deeply nurturing and loving a child without having any expectations. Many obligations and self-control are required—the necessity of embracing a child's defects and allowing them to be flawed.
In the four years I've been a mother, I've discovered how to be resilient, forgiving, and strong. I've also discovered how always to have higher expectations and how to stay optimistic no matter what.
Please buy me some candy, mom.
Cake, please, mom.
Please take me to see your grandparents, mom.
Mummy, I don't have red shoes on.
I have been magically changed to saying "YES" even when it is uncomfortable, and occasionally, when the response is "NAH," I secretly wish I could say "YES" to erase the hurt from her eyes.
Motherhood is not about giving birth to a child; rather, it is about loving a child without regard for who the child belongs to.
I see "sugar," as I refer to her, every day. I may not be a biological mother, but I feel as though I am on top of the world. I will always be grateful that I am raising a super amazing soul with love and affection.
She's pure magic, and it makes my love for her unbreakable.
Beloved sister
My beloved sister.
My sister was the first I saw living a dream that seemed impossible.
Regardless of her fears and family's opposition, she enrolled in programs, partook in runways, and created connections to push her medical career.
Then marriage came and this was a totally new life to face but it all ended the way God wanted it.
Well, I thought she had given up.
But yesterday, we got into a conversation and she referred me to her role model "Mimzbe" on Instagram.
"Look at her. She's a very courageous woman and never gives up to defeat.” The woman pushes her to become who she wants to be in life. That's the part of me I can't let go.
I read the passion in her eyes and realized dreams are way beyond wishes and imagination. They're our burning desires regardless of how hard we try to fight.
You'll go to bed pondering on it, you'll wake up to face it, and until action is taken, that burden never departs.
Her decision to follow where the universe points is unwavering.
I wore a smile - makeup to cover how challenged I felt.
I pray for you the best of peace. Thank you for inspiring me.
A drama play titled “The gods don't lie”
My MSA theater group was invited to perform at an event. We acted out one of our plays, titled "The Gods Don't Lie," with a cast of five: myself (Simeon), Gifted, Mercy, Blessing, and Grace. Each person played their role perfectly.
The story was inspired by a community facing numerous challenges with sickness, but their only solution came from a destiny girl named Amaka. In the picture, Amaka is the girl sitting on the floor. Amaka and her family were unjustly cast out of the community, molested, and shunned for a crime they did not commit.
However, the king assembled the eyes of the gods to seek advice and he was told that only Amaka could bring a solution to the sickness that had befallen the community.
The king summoned Amaka to the palace and begged for forgiveness, asking Amaka to provide a solution for the sickness that had affected the land.
Amaka cried and told the king that she had forgiven the land. After that, Amaka brought out a white powder that the people in the community could apply, so their sickness could be healed and the community was in peace and harmony.
The play we acted in really got the audience applauding us and we were so fulfilled as we were able to convey a message.
Old school day
It was Student Week and I participated in our school's activities, tagged "OLD SCHOOL DAY," bringing back memories of old school days! We relived old poems and the way our forefathers rode bicycles to school.
Old school isn't just about dressing up in secondary school uniforms, it's about dressing up like the 80s and earlier, reliving the memories of the good old days, and acting the way our fathers and grandfathers did in the past. Things like old radios, bicycles, long chewing sticks, and afro hair were all part of the fun.
The excitement of a new school year, the anticipation of learning something new, the joy of making new friends, and the treasured moments of recess and lunch all made the Old School Day a memorable experience.
Old school days were always full of adventure, a place to learn, grow, and make memories that will last a lifetime. From the first day of kindergarten to the last day of high school, each day was filled with both successes and failures, laughter and tears.
We played jumping rope, names of places, football games, suwe games, hide and seek, who is in the garden, and we also acted drama about our old time religion. We ended it with our different local foods.
It was really a memory to remember.
Cultural day
I recently attended a cultural event that showcased the way of life of our community, including our attire, language, and traditional foods.
Have you ever appreciated the beauty of different languages?
Have you felt a tingle of excitement hearing someone fluently speak a dialect you don't understand?
During the cultural event, I was beside a Hausa lady who was making me feel goosebumps.
She was on the phone for more than a minute, but all I could understand were the words "Nagode" and "Lafia."
I smiled throughout like I understood everything (it was just sweetinggggggg me)
The language that shifts the soul in this body is Yoruba.
Woah!! I excitedly scream when I hear a native speaker.
Felix Olokede can testify the number of times I begged him to send a voice note in Yoruba (even when I don't understand anything) just speak it, then speak it fast, and you'll see me dance without music.
Igbo, my Igbo! This is my language of Romance.
Tease me in Igbo and I'M ALLLL YOURS.
NWOKE OMA
OBIM
OMALICHA
ASA NWA
NKEM
LOLO
Then summarize it with "IFUNAYA"
Ahhhhhhhhhhh! I'LL JUMP ON YOUR SKIN.
The event really educated me to know more about the 3 major languages in Nigeria.
I love these languages. Honestly, I love them. I REALLY LOVE THEM!
My first day in school
My name is Diamond. I’m the first child of my parents from Imo State in Nigeria.
I got admission to the University of Uyo, faculty of law.
My first day in school was full of mixed emotions - I was happy and scared at the same time. I looked forward to learning about how the school system worked and meeting new friends in my department.
I went for a screening at the bursary office. I was asked to bring my credentials and four passport photos, but I was turned away because I didn't have a recommendation letter.
I was a bit angry, but the next day I went to see my uncle who is a barrister and he gave me a recommendation letter. With that in hand, I returned for the screening and it was successful.
The next day, I went to pay my school fees and registered for my departmental courses. It all seemed very strange to me, but when I started attending lectures, I had a great set of new friends who were very kind and tried to help me understand how the faculty of law works.
I bought new textbooks and lecture notes to prepare for the first semester.
Next week is my matriculation and I am looking forward to it.
My mother
My mother, Deaconess Mercy Moses, is a businesswoman and a God-fearing woman who raised me in the way of the Lord, making me become a better man. She means everything in this world to me and I cherish her in everything I do.
The influence of my mother on my life and that of my relatives cannot be measured. They know and absorb her example and attitudes when it comes to questions of honesty, temperance, kindness, and being an industrious person.
She has always been by my side, through thick and thin. She is a source of inspiration and a pillar of strength, and she would do anything to make me happy.
Even when I was in school, she paid my tuition and sent my siblings to the city to learn fashion skills.
She made many sacrifices for us as we grew up, and I owe her everything good in my life.
Today, I choose to celebrate her and all the mothers in the world who work to make their homes comfortable and provide for their children.
Myself Lizzy
Hello, Community DAO, a brief background about myself. My name is Lizzy. I am 26 years old and, from Kogi State, a native of Ibiara. I have lived in Lagos since I was a child.
I attended faithful nursery and primary school and I furthered my education at the University of Lagos State, where I studied art.
However, I love entertainment much like the musical expert, and by the way am also an event planner for weddings, birthday celebrations, and housewarming parties. I can help you make your event successful.
I sing songs in the church where I attend, but sometimes I am shy. Life events can occupy me and prevent me from going to choir rehearsals.
My life revolves around my job at a travel agency, church, and my family. There is no lover in the picture at the moment, as I have been served many heartbreaks by men.
Despite this, I still believe in love and always give it freely. I am still a very lovable person. It's the season of love, so let's show love to someone today.
My Director's Child Dedication
It was another beautiful day to share with you all about my boss's child dedication. It was truly a day filled with joy as my boss in the workplace was dedicating his fifth child, a boy. We, the staff of the company, were all happy and took a day off from work to visit him at home, say a word of prayer for the baby, and then move on to the church. At the church, we celebrated with him, danced, and showed our support for the family with a small token.
I was personally happy because the child delivery wasn't an easy one, but all glory to God that both the mother of the baby and the baby were safe.
After church, we all went to the reception venue, where we had lots of food to eat, drinks, and a little live band entertainment. I really enjoyed myself and was really happy. I also took the break to relax after going home. I slept and also did a little laundry, and prepared for work the following day. Before I slept, I called my boss once again to congratulate him and to also appreciate him for hosting us and thanking us for coming to his event and celebrating with his family.
Cruelty
When I was going to enter high school years ago, my parents gave me advice on how to graduate from school as a godly young person.
As our doorbell rang, I was prompted to answer it. A handsome young man with viking gold hair suddenly materialized. His features were in perfect proportion to one another, and his eyes had the same startling clarity as a mountain stream. When he said, "Hello," his husky voice knocked me off my feet. I was engrossed in his steady voice until my mother called to ask who was at the door. I grew timid after being startled.
He greeted Aunty with astonishment! Except for me, who was still lost, my parents ran to give him a bear hug since they were thrilled to see him. My father called to give me a proper introduction. This is your uncle who has been traveling.
Wow, I've finally found the hero my father had been telling me about—the one who has been sending me money for my tuition and family support.
I was home alone after my parents left for work one day and heard a knock on the door. Pause, I'm coming.
My uncle just got back and that was him.
I explained to him that my mother was away and that I was not to open the door to strangers. I am not a stranger, he chuckled before introducing himself as my uncle.
I opened the door obediently.
He requested a cup of water as he entered, so I went to grab it while he was inside.
I gave him some water, and when I was done, he asked me to sit with him. Even though I was really shy, he pulled me and pleaded with me not to flee, promising not to injure me.
My uncle and I spoke for a while, and he inquired about my school preparation. I wanted to run away when he started caressing me since his voice was so kind and soothing, but he was stronger than me. He lifted my clothing gently and spread my legs apart, telling me it wouldn't hurt and to just relax because he was playing with me. I cried all the way through, wishing my mother would never leave the house and leave me home alone.
My uncle went shopping for me after his show and got me everything else I needed for school.
He said that what he did was a game between him and me that neither my parents should know about.
I played with his phone until my mother got home later that evening after he handed me extra money.
My uncle stayed with us until I left for the boarding house, and he never let me tell my mother about what he did.
I went from being a confident young girl to a girl who was angry and withdrawn as I arrived at the boarding house. I detested all the lads in my classes and male teachers.
I've learned that my uncle is married and has two boys and two girls, so I wonder if he plays the same game we did with his two daughters.
I'm working so hard to put the past behind me and rediscover the carefree ten-year-old I once was. But the past keeps coming up again.
Dreams do come true
Being a graduate is a dream come true. I am Sebastian Chuks from Imo state in Nigeria. I am a fashion designer and an aspiring on-air personality (OAP). I recently graduated from the University of Port Harcourt, where I studied Communication Arts.
After I finished college of education in 2015, I lost my dad and had to put my education on hold. I turned to tailoring as a profession and became an apprentice. Within just two years, I made significant progress and was able to work on my own as a self-employed tailor. I went back to school, financing my education with my tailoring work. Today, I am a proud graduate and have fulfilled the promise I made to my dad. The future is uncertain, but with God, all things are possible. Remember, dreams do come true, so keep dreaming.
Jungle Justice in Nigeria
Jungle justice is an act of immediate execution carried out by angry mobs on criminals by burning them to death with car tires and fuel.
However, it has never been the best option as innocent lives have been lost due to false reports and presumptions, and one such case happened when four university students of Port Harcourt in the community of Aluu were burnt to death due to inaccurate information. However, justice took its course on all those who got involved in such a nefarious act, which happened on the 5th of October 2012 in Nigeria.
The crime rate in the country has alerted not only the security personnel but also angry members of the public who were already waiting to carry out jungle justice on any criminal caught.
Jungle justice was carried out on two unfortunate criminals who were caught in the act of robbery this week in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. This took place in Ring Road, Uyo. It's unfortunate that before the police could intervene at the scene, the robbers were already burnt to death.
“There are some incidents of jungle justice that are in the court, and those that are not in court, the security operatives are already investigating them,” says one reporter. “There is not a single outcome of jungle justice that is not criminal. However, in general, jungle justice is abhorrent, illegal, and lacks due process.
My Experience as a Machine Coupler
When I first started as a machine coupler, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I was a bit apprehensive about the job and didn't know what to expect. However, after spending some time in the role, I can say that I have learned a lot and am now much more confident with the job.
As a machine coupler, my job is to make sure that machines in a factory are properly connected or coupled together. This is a crucial job as it ensures that machines can be used safely and effectively. I have to use different tools and techniques to properly connect the machines and make sure that they are functioning well.
The most important part of being a machine coupler is making sure that the machines are working properly and that they are safe to use. I have to make sure that the wiring is correct and that any loose connections are fixed. I also have to check that the machines are running efficiently and that they are not causing any hazardous conditions.
Being a machine coupler is a great job because it allows me to work with a variety of machines and learn more about them. It also allows me to learn new techniques and technologies that can help me improve my skills and knowledge. I have also been able to help my colleagues with their jobs and projects by providing them with the information and support they need.
Overall, my experience as a machine coupler has been a positive one. I have learned a lot and am now much more confident with the job. I am also able to help my colleagues and provide them with the support they need to complete their tasks. I believe that this job can be beneficial for anyone who is looking for a challenging yet rewarding career. Thanks to COVID-19.
Greed
On my way home from school, I boarded a minibus, and an unusual event occurred.
A young man dressed as a superhero and with a wide chest got onto a tricycle and told the driver where he was going.
The driver informed him that the fare was N100 and that he wasn't getting an old note, but he remained silent.
A little while later, the passenger informed the driver that he was getting off.
The guy gave the man an outdated N200 note and asked for N150 in change.
The old man informed him that his money was N100 naira and that he was not getting old currency. The young man said that the currency was still in use and had not been outlawed.
During a protracted disagreement, the young man offered the old man N100 and asked the driver for change.
With the tough economy and the scarcity of fuel, I thought to myself, "Shewwww, this person gets mind oooooo."
The man threatened to break one of the tricycle's side mirrors if the driver did not give him his change while holding it in his hand.
The bus was full of men, and I was sitting quietly behind the driver with one man at the front. However, nobody dared to ask the crazy man holding the side mirror to release it.
He was threatened by the driver, who promised to deal with him.
They began to struggle, and the man continued to hold on to the side mirror. The bus driver tried to subdue the man with a long rod, but the man dragged it away from him, nearly blinding my eyes inside the vehicle.
In a fit of rage, the driver began to operate the bus with just one hand, nearly turning it 360 degrees on the narrow lane. Others were shouting because the driving was so erratic.
Long story short, the guy trips and falls on the pavement.
Only God was able to prevent an accident with the bus when all the cars were forced to wait on the road.
This afternoon, I witnessed the passage of my entire life.
My heart continues to beat rapidly.
Regardless of rank, some people will go to any lengths to oppress others.
Although it is commonly believed that only the wealthy oppress the poor, yet even the destitute abuse one another.
My best year
It's okay to say 2022 was the best year.
I embraced the undeniable part of me and accepted opportunities to rebirth "Golden words."
“Golden words” is my spoken words brand, which with time it's going to be heard worldwide. That's a vision I hold each day dearly when I wake up.
It didn't come out as planned, but I started, and "perfection will catch up," as Neeta-Rare Michael says.
The most interesting part was my undiluted self-growth in every part of my life.
The voice-over training with Omowumi, Podcast mentorship with Ally Oceans, and a list of other courses that improved my speaking and creative writing.
Then the headache of love life with all kinds of men claiming and professing love for me.
I loved wholeheartedly but my breakfast was served with different intercontinental dishes😂
My academics experienced the most confusing state.
Moments when I had to ask myself why I'm studying the course over and over.
At this point, I was confused if I was on the right path with the kind of courses was studying.
I'm most grateful God Helped me
I'm most grateful for Creativity
I'm most grateful I got healed
Cheers to New Achievements In 2023.
Spending time with my niece
Spending time with my niece was a wonderful and rewarding experience. We had fun together and did lots of things. My niece is 4 years old, and she is really intelligent and smart. She's fair and slim and loves chocolate biscuits. She enjoys playing the hide-and-seek game and cries when you say no.
We played hide and seek, which made her very energetic and happy. After that, she got dressed, and we both went to a nearby mall to get her favorite biscuits. She was really excited and smiled all throughout. I call her Esty because her name is Esther, and she really loves the name. I helped her do her assignments and that was the only time she was almost sad.
After the assignment, I had to go and buy her food because she wanted to eat rice. We ate together, and I could see she was happy again. I told her how I'd surprise her on her birthday if she came first in class. I left their house later in the evening, and I can say that I really had fun.
The choir girl
Almost every Sunday morning, I can be seen dressed in a simple yet beautiful attire: a white top and a pleated blue shirt. This dress signifies one thing to everyone in my community: choir. The white and blue combination is well known as the choir uniform for choristers at The Apostolic Church of God.
Our church choir is a well-organized part of the church, with two groups: the youth choir and the adult choir. I belong to the latter, and selection is based on age and the uniqueness of the chorister's voice. After spending 11 months in the youth choir, I was promoted to the adult level. I attend choir rehearsals twice a week, on Wednesdays and Fridays, in preparation for Sunday's service. With a unique tenor voice that is my strength, singing is more than just a hobby for me; it's a passion. I am Cornelia, the choir girl.
My Uyo Experience
My city, Uyo, is the capital city of Akwa Ibom State, located in the southern part of Nigeria. I was born in Uyo, and I like the touristy part of the city. From my observations, Uyo is a major commercial, educational, and cultural center in the region, and it has several universities, hospitals, hotels, markets, and government institutions.
I like green and calm environments, and the city gives me this feeling. The city is not really populated and according to the 2006 Nigerian census, it has a population of approximately 436,606 people. It has several street markets, colorful festivals, and a rich cultural heritage. The town is known as a tourist state, because it is calm and peaceful. I have been to several tourist attraction centers, including Ibeno Beach, Ibom Plaza, and the Uyo Township Stadium. The memories remain evergreen.
I also observed that Uyo is well-connected to other parts of Nigeria via a network of roads and highways and is served by the Akwa Ibom International Airport. Also, our economy in Uyo is driven by agriculture, fishing, trading, and tourism, and it is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in Nigeria.
The Traditional Marriage I Attended
A lovely weekend to everyone! Yesterday was a truly memorable day as one of my childhood friends got traditionally blessed with her husband. So, I woke up that morning knowing that I had a marriage to attend. After taking care of the necessary things, I first ironed my traditional attire and polished my shoes. Then, I went to a nearby barbershop to get my hair cut. It was a nice experience. After all that, I took a ride to the marriage venue, where I was lucky to meet friends who arrived earlier than me.
After that, we waited patiently for the traditional marriage to begin (the agreement between the parents on the dowry). Afterwards, we presented the bride with the gift we brought, which was a washing machine that we all contributed money for. The bride, who was also my classmate in school, was very happy and prayed for us after receiving the gift. She then served us chilled drinks and jollof rice, which was delicious. My friends and I prayed for the family and thanked them for hosting us. It was truly a joyous occasion.
Reasons NFTs Rock
NFT, short for Non-Fungible Token, is a digital asset that is gaining immense popularity in the world of art and collectibles. In recent years, the buzz surrounding NFTs has been on the rise, and it's no surprise that more people are embracing this new technology. As an NFT enthusiast, I can say that NFTs have captured the attention and hearts of many individuals, leading them to say, "I love NFT."
So, what exactly are NFTs, and why are people so in love with them?
NFTs are unique digital assets that are verified on a blockchain network, making them tamper-proof and impossible to replicate. These tokens can represent various types of digital content, such as artwork, music, videos, and even tweets. Once an NFT is created, it can be sold, traded, or displayed in virtual galleries, making it a valuable and coveted asset.
One of the main reasons people love NFTs is their ability to provide artists with new and innovative ways to monetize their digital creations. In the past, artists have struggled to earn a living from their digital art due to issues with copyright and the ease of digital duplication. However, with the advent of NFTs, artists can now sell their unique digital creations as one-of-a-kind pieces, making them more valuable and collectible.
Another reason people love NFTs is their ability to create a sense of ownership and exclusivity. When you purchase an NFT, you are buying a unique digital asset that cannot be replicated, providing you with a sense of ownership and exclusivity. NFTs can also be used to create limited-edition pieces, making them even more desirable and valuable. Moreover, NFTs provide a new and exciting way for collectors to expand their collections. Collectors can now buy and trade NFTs from all over the world, expanding their collections beyond physical limitations. This means that individuals can now own and display art by international artists to which they may not have previously had access.
To encapsulate, the rise of NFTs is transforming how we view and interact with digital art and collectibles. NFTs have the potential to revolutionize the art industry, providing artists with new and innovative ways to monetize their creations while providing collectors with unique and valuable assets. It's no wonder why so many individuals are falling in love with NFTs and why it's becoming one of the most talked-about topics in the art world.
Thank you, DOWDAO and Danoski, for introducing us to NFT.
I LOVE NFTs
My Ambition in Life
I have always been driven by ambition, and it has been my lifelong goal to make a difference in the world. Growing up, I was surrounded by people who had a strong sense of purpose and were making an impact on their communities. This inspired me to pursue higher education and dedicate my life to something meaningful.
After university, I found myself in a job that felt unfulfilling and mundane. I wanted more than the typical nine-to-five lifestyle and felt like there must be something better out there for me.
One day, I stumbled across an opportunity to pursue my dreams of making a difference. It was with an organization that was looking for people with a passion for helping others. I applied and was accepted into the program, which gave me access to resources and mentors that could help me along my journey of discovery.
Throughout this experience, I found myself growing as an individual, becoming more confident in my abilities, and developing stronger relationships with the community. My ambition has led me to many successes throughout the years.
My Experience as a Primary School Teacher
My journey as a teacher began after I wrote my senior exams (Waec). The same day I completed my exam, the proprietor of my school offered me a job as a teacher. I was very excited about the job and I was thrilled to be able to put my knowledge into practice and help students learn and grow. As a teacher, I have had the privilege of shaping young minds and helping students grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. I have learned that being a teacher is not just about imparting knowledge but also about being a role model and providing guidance and support to students.
I remember my first day in the classroom vividly. The students were excited and eager to learn, but at the same time, they were also nervous and uncertain about what to expect. I quickly realized that my role as a teacher was not just to teach them physics but also to create a positive and supportive learning environment.
I spent a lot of time getting to know my students, their strengths and weaknesses, and their learning styles. I used this knowledge to structure my lessons to their needs and to make the learning experience as engaging and interactive as possible.
One of the most rewarding experiences as a teacher is seeing the progress of your students. I remember one particular student who was struggling with physics when I first started teaching him. But with patience, persistence, and a lot of hard work, he was able to improve his grades and become more confident in his abilities, coupled with the parents’ efforts. It was moments like these that reminded me why I became a teacher in the first place though not for too long.
Being a teacher also comes with its share of challenges. There were times when I felt frustrated or overwhelmed, especially when dealing with difficult students or when trying to balance the demands of teaching with my personal life. But I learned to stay focused, to ask for help when I needed it, and to rely on the support of my colleagues and research work.
By way of conclusion, being a teacher is not just a job, it's a calling. It requires patience, compassion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. I am grateful for the opportunity to have played a small role in the lives of my students, and I am proud of the impact that I have made on their academic and personal development. Being a teacher is not always easy, but it's always rewarding, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
My Valentine Experience
Valentine's Day for me has always been just a regular day. I usually spend most of my time indoors sleeping and reading, not because I'm single, but because I don't like the noise that comes with the holiday. This year was no different, but it felt a bit special as I forced myself to go out later in the evening.
Nothing much actually happened as I didn't invite friends. The main purpose was just to take pictures, create memories, and have something to hold on to. I enjoyed my alone time and, for some strange reasons, I was happy. I took lots of pictures and my photographer happened to be a stranger I met at the location.
Love is indeed a beautiful thing and there's no doubt about that. I love all the pampering that comes with it. Later that night, I received flowers from my boyfriend, who happens to be in a different city. It wasn't a bad day, and I would say I had the best time I could. I'm looking forward to seeing how next year will be.
Growing into adulthood
Maturing into adulthood was a challenging process for me. Although I was fortunate to have a supportive family, including my mother and uncle, who provided me with the best life possible, I was stubborn and resistant to going to school. I believed it was a waste of time and effort. However, my uncle, determined to help me succeed, took me out of the village and enrolled me in a top school in Abuja to monitor my education and performance. Despite this, my lack of interest in school persisted, leading to poor academic performance. I even struggled with speaking English, causing me to feel embarrassed and uncomfortable. Eventually, I asked my uncle to send me back to the village, where I continued my education, but my family had already given up on me.
At this point, I realized that I needed to change my mindset and prove to myself and others that I could succeed. I became more interested in learning and discovered the power of a positive mindset. I refused to give up and adopted a persistent attitude, which helped me achieve my goals. As a result, I grew into a confident adult who is determined to overcome any obstacle and attain my aspirations.
Saturday with my best friend
Saturdays are usually my best days because I have time in the evenings to hang out with my best friend, Chidera. She is a beautiful girl, and I am too!
Earlier on Saturday morning, I woke up, said my morning prayers, did my chores, and did some laundry. Then I rested for a while. My mom went to the market, and I was left alone at home. I was bored during the day, so I called my best friend to come over so we could have fun together.
We cooked noodles with fish when she arrived, played, and decided to go to the nearby garden where we sat, played, listened to the birds, and had discussions because we hadn't seen each other all week. When it started getting dark, we had to return home because my mom was coming back from the market. I had a nice day because there can never be a boring moment with my best friend.
Trip to Ezeagu
This weekend I took an adventure to an interior village in Enugu state called "Ezeagu." I joined my friend Unchena and his cousin Chidebere as they went home to visit Unchena's grandmother. Our journey wasn't smooth, as our rental car broke down twice on the way, causing us to spend two extra hours on the road. I was personally exhausted and unhappy about the car situation, but we didn't give up.
I had heard so much about the great village of Ezeagu and I wanted to see it for myself. After all the twists and turns, we finally arrived in Ezeagu late in the evening. My host mother and grandmother welcomed us with open arms, offering us jars of palm wine, African salad (Abacha), and oha soup. I can say that the palm wine I tasted there was the best I've ever had. We then went to see the steam for sightseeing before coming back to thank our hosts.
It was too late to go back to the city, so we spent the night there in luxurious village comfort. I forgot about the rental car stress from earlier in the day.
Repairing the UPS
Today was a fantastic day at my workplace. My skills as a technician were put to the test. I had to fix our UPS to store electricity and provide a backup during power outages. Growing up in Calabar, Cross River State, I learned how to repair electronics.
It had been a while since I had worked on any electronics, so I initially struggled to figure out what was wrong with the UPS. My colleagues were laughing and asking when I had started repairing electronics, as they had never seen me do it before. But I didn't let their teasing discourage me.
One of my friends even bet that I wouldn't be able to fix it, but I proved him wrong and successfully repaired the UPS. He was so shocked that he offered to pay for all my food for the day, which he did on Friday. I was grateful for the opportunity to showcase my skills and for the delicious meal.
Wig Making
Beauty Lies in the Eyes of the Beholder.
Earlier this week, I visited a beauty shop in my neighborhood. The artist was shocked to see me trying to learn what she does for a living.
It's part of my life journey as I've made learning a limitless behavior.
At first, she was shy about discussing the process of making wigs and their cost, but I persuaded her to show me at least 15% of what's required.
After much conversation with her, she agreed to explain the process of making a wig using industrial-made hair.
The first step was to measure around the head at the hairline.
She used a cloth tape measure to measure along the hairline, starting from the base of the neck to the top of the brow.
Then, she measured down the center top of the manikin head by placing the end of the cloth tape measure at the center of the forehead and aligning it with the start of the natural hairline. The tape measure was then wrapped around the manikin's crown and down to the middle of the nape, where the natural hairline should terminate.
Next, she measured from one ear to the other and began arranging the wig's foundation using wet cotton lace.
She then used synthetic hair to easily fix it onto the foundation by pulling it through in a loop and knotting it onto the lace with a needle, starting from the neck and working her way up to the front.
Finally, she attached a frontal to cover the cleavage. Although she wouldn't let me take step-by-step photos, it was still a simple process for her.
Learning a skill is easy, but what truly matters is the passion to learn. I have gained an understanding of how to make wigs this week.
The 14th of February 2023, St. Valentine's Day
Today is your birthday, but I chose to spend my Valentine's evening at church. My church, Breakthrough Palace Mission Uyo, organized a love and relationship banquet to help young people understand the love of Christ, which is the greatest love of all kinds.
I was excited to have made it to this service, it was truly an amazing experience in God's presence. As a member of the choir, I had to finish work early so I could arrive at the church in time for the service. The attire for the choristers was a red dress, and since I didn't have one, I had to put my tailoring skills to use and quickly make one. I used a red crepe fabric and created a simple, unique style with a beaded branch design.
Upon arriving at the church, I saw that most of the choristers were already seated. The drama team was making the final touches to their costumes, and attendees of the banquet started to arrive. The service began precisely at 5 p.m. The praise and worship session was musically outstanding, and everyone was dancing and rejoicing in praises to God. I joined in, despite being tired from work, and displayed my dancing abilities. The drama team took the stage later and displayed their talents in a play. Three men had to prove their love to a woman, and she was to choose only one. The first knew the right words to use, the second had money and was willing to spend, and the last had a love of Christ and was willing to share. The woman chose the one with the money as the huge crowd erupted in shouts and jubilation. In this part of the world, it is commonly believed that love cannot work without money. They also entertained us with dances and spoken word.
During the service, there was a question and answer section where we got to hear different views from people about relationships and their love stories. The servant of God in charge of the commission shared a message on the topic of "Relationship and Value." He encouraged us to avoid relationships that drain us in any way and to seek out relationships that add value to our lives. He gave examples and lessons on how to identify a valuable relationship and how to add value to our own relationships. He also advised us to be less materialistic in our relationships and to focus on adding value to those around us.
The service ended with drinks and snacks being served. I returned late, so I couldn't hang out with friends, but I still had a wonderful Valentine's Day experience and don't regret spending it in church.
Closed from work early
My Friday was fantastic. I woke up late because I had a very stressful Thursday. When I woke up, I said my prayers, cleaned the house, and cooked spaghetti with chicken.
I went to work a bit late but didn't actually stay long because we closed early.
We closed because of riots. There was a massive upset on the streets due to the new naira note policy in Nigeria. The government banned the use of old naira notes in Nigeria and there is a limited supply of the new notes because of corrupt politicians and bank managers.
After I left work, I decided to go out with my coworker. We visited a park and took some refreshments. I wish I could be free like this most days. I really enjoyed today. When I went home, my brother had eaten my spaghetti. I just waved it off because I had already eaten and enjoyed my day.
Unity is strength
Unity is strength and when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. Working together to create music can be a fun and rewarding experience.
My music band, "The Revelation," is made up of two keyboardists, Richie and Peter, a lead guitarist, Michael, a drummer boy, Emma, and myself, Ubon. We come together to make good music that lifts the soul and is pleasant to the ears. There are many different types of music, each with its own unique style, sound, and cultural significance.
However, we play some basic types of music, including jazz, rock, classical, hip-hop, and reggae.
Last week, we rehearsed a rock song by Tim Godfrey, a gospel artist, titled "Aha Ahan." The song is very technical, with complex harmony, vocals, and rhythm for the instrumentalists.
During the choir rehearsal, we tried to get the intro of the song right and failed several times. But eventually, we got all the notes and tempo of the song. That's when I realized that unity in a team brings good results and happiness among my team.
Life in school
Hi guys, Happy Sunday! My write-up today is about my life in school. It has been amazing and wonderful. As a student in the hostel, I've had the opportunity to meet people from different parts of the country and create wonderful relationships with them. We joke, play, and even learn about different cultures.
The most exciting part of it all is the food. We learn how to adapt to different cultural foods, even though it can be challenging at times, but we endure and enjoy the meal.
(With my Yoruba friend)
After spending time in the hostel, we leave our rooms and head to the classroom where we meet another set of people. In class, we learn together and also have fun.
(After lecture)
I return to the hostel and I thoroughly enjoy it because I have a great roommate. They have taught me a lot, for example, about cryptocurrency, which I learned about in the hostel. I also learned how to operate a laptop there.
My best advice to students starting university is to stay in the hostel because I have truly enjoyed and made the most of my time there. There is always steady electricity, water, and affordable meals.
It is always a great experience to live with people from different cultures, as it greatly contributes to learning.
My Last Year’s Christmas Holiday
Last year's Christmas was one of my best, and I was very happy. I wish it could happen every time, not just once a year, because it was so much fun. All of my family members and friends came around. I was so glad to see family members and friends I hadn't seen in many years and wish the holiday never ended.
During the Christmas holiday, we decorated our home with Christmas lights, wreaths, and ornaments, and even put up Christmas trees. My family and I exchanged gifts with friends and I also attended church services. We prepared a variety of foods such as roasted chicken, vegetable soup, pounded yam, fried rice, melon soup, pepper soup rice, melon soup, fruitcake, and rice and stew.
During the Christmas holiday, we celebrated various traditions and activities such as carol night. I also watched Christmas movies and participated in gift exchanges and Secret Santa events. It was a truly enjoyable time as I got to spend quality time with my family and friends.
A New Chapter
The new year is always a new opportunity to start a new chapter in one's life. It is a lifeline to succeed in the places you once failed and a chapter to also build on past successes.
The New Year celebration in Nigeria is always a time of swell and merriment. There is a lot of fanfare and religious activities.
The new year is supposed to come with a lot of clarity and a new lease of hope, but to an extent, my motivation tank at the beginning of the year to an all-time low. I had lots of disappointments prior to the new year, so this took a toll on me.
I was always playing it all cool and didn't realize I was sinking deep into the murky waters of depression. There was little or no zest to keep up with my daily activities. My mind was flooded with worries, and all I wanted was just space to think and clear my head. At last, it had a temporal feel of comfort but consequently, it became draining as I began having little outbursts with any human interaction.
I was so broken and tired that I went back to God in prayers for strength because I felt he was the only one I could confide in who would not leak all my pains out or try to take advantage of the situation.
My Experience as an Electrician
After my secondary education, I sought out skills to acquire. My uncle helped me pay for the training, and that was how my journey as an electrician began. A few months later, I was able to do jobs on my own and I felt excited. I was able to pay my bills and assist my family, which was one of the many things I had wished for.
I have been an electrician for over 5 years now, and it has been an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Throughout my career, I've held many different types of jobs, from wiring homes and businesses to maintaining industrial and power plants. I've worked with a wide variety of materials and devices, from simple cables and sockets to complex control systems and switchboards. I've also had the opportunity to work on projects ranging from small remodels to major renovations.
I take pride in my work and strive to provide the best customer service possible. I enjoy troubleshooting and problem-solving and I take the time to explain any repair or installation that the customer needs to understand. No matter what type of work I'm working on, safety always comes first. I make sure I understand the project before I start, as well as any safety regulations that need to be followed. In addition, I always double check my work to ensure it conforms to code and meets the highest quality standards.
In conclusion, it has been an incredibly rewarding experience being an electrician. I look forward to developing my skills and learning new technologies to keep up with the industry.
Recent Embarrassing Moment
A few months ago, the apex bank of our country announced a redesign of some denominations of our currency and advised the citizens to turn in the old notes in their possession for the new ones. The citizens obeyed. While we turned in the old notes, we were not issued the new notes equivalent to what we brought, so we thought we could always withdraw outside the bank with our debit cards, but we were wrong.
A deadline was issued for the collection of old notes, and at the expiration of the deadline, old notes were no longer received by commercial banks except the apex bank. However, the new notes were not sufficiently circulated, and the incident brought about a serious cash crunch in the country.
Because of the ongoing cash crunch in the country and its effect on the mobility of people, I recently had an embarrassing moment that kept me pondering on why things are like this. The transportation sector has really been truncated while prospective passengers are most times frustrated by this policy, but we move!!
We are not only experiencing a scarcity of cash but also battling with a poor network for cashless transactions. Banks have refused to load their ATMs with cash for the citizens to withdraw, and it is quite frustrating. The POS operators have decided to quadruple their charges, leaving us with no option but to refuse to withdraw.
I was shortlisted to be part of training at a distant place and was wondering how to get there because it was an important training. Someone told me some drivers would accept transfers for their payments, and I was relieved and had hopes of attending the training.
As I stepped out, I had to wait on the road for a long time, asking each driver if they would accept a bank transfer for their payment. Many of them zoomed off immediately, but I waited until one came around. He agreed, and I hopped in.
From my pickup point to my destination, I tried several times to make a transfer of funds, but I couldn't, and I was speechless. When I arrived at my destination, I didn't know what to say because I didn't want an open challenge from the driver, but he understood at first.
Immediately, the driver spotted the point of sales (POS) center. He asked me to see if they had cash, but there was none. The angry passengers began to talk carelessly with words like why didn't she transfer the money earlier. I was the only one who knew the number of times I had tried to make the transaction but to no avail, so I ignored them.
To avoid unnecessary drama, I had to collect the driver's phone number, assuring him that I would transfer the money to him when the network was better. I had to reach out to a friend to come to my rescue so I wouldn't trek back home because the distance was far beyond trekkable.
When I got home, I transferred money to the driver, but he said he never received it. So, I told him to give it some time. He asked for the transaction details, which I sent a screenshot of. After sending the screenshot, he accused me of trying to scam him with fake transaction details. I felt embarrassed and refused to answer him, as I couldn't understand how I could scam him. Later, he received the money and apologized for his accusations. I learned a valuable lesson from the incident: don't travel to a distant place without cash to avoid the inconvenience and embarrassment of a situation like this.
How to Discover Purpose
WHAT IS PURPOSE?
Purpose is the primary reason for which something is created, done or exist. Purpose is when you know and understand what you were born to accomplish. Without purpose, life is an experiment without expectations. Finally, purpose is the original intent for the creation of a thing. To issue of purpose can be traced to God’s statement in:
Jeremiah 1:5
Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
DISCOVER GOD
(Genesis 1:1) God is at the center of every creation. He is the manufacturer of every human working product on earth and who best knows the purpose of a thing than its own manufacturer.
Friends, the source of all creations is God and if you want to discover your purpose you go back to your source, where you came from. In the beginning God… See what the next scripture says…
JOHN 1:1-4
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2. The same was in the beginning with God.
3. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.
4. In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
Brethren, if He was in the beginning then you must go back to Him. You must get into the mind of the manufacturer to discover His original intentions for you. This is only possible through Intimacy.
DISCOVER God and you will discover who you are in God. Remember in him you live, move and have your being – Acts 17:28. You may get to choose your career, friends, husband or wife, your hobbies, and many areas of your life except your purpose. God chooses your purpose for you exclusively.
Friends, YOU were created by God to serve God’s will and purpose and it is important that you meet Him to know what that will is. According to Pastor Rick Warren, your purpose is a great part of God’s greatest plan for eternity. You have a void to fill in the generation that God has assigned specifically for you.
My Matriculation Day
My matriculation day is one that I will never forget as I was incredibly eager to start my university journey. On that day, we new students were officially enrolled and registered for classes in the university.
It was a formal ceremony because we signed a register and took an oath to mark our entry into the academic community. It was a significant milestone for me, as it represented the beginning of my academic journey at the institution.
My matriculation day also included other orientation activities, where I learned more about the campus, courses, and the academic and social support services available to us.
After the formal ceremony, I went out with my friends and we had a house party. We had lots of fun and we were really happy that we were finally full students of the institution. After the whole party, we all went back home filled and exhausted too.
~~~
How I Survived Fuel Scarcity
Fuel scarcity can be frustrating and inconvenient, but even with the scarcity, I looked for ways to try to mitigate the impact of the shortage.
What I did during scarcity was that anytime I had access to fuel, I tried to conserve as much as possible. The way I could conserve fuel was to plan my trips. Anytime I wanted to go out, I used to plan my trips in advance to minimize the amount of driving I needed to do. This used to help me use less fuel overall.
During this period, I was always alert and aware of my environment. I used to stay informed, keeping up to date on the fuel situation in my area. I was always active on social media, local news sources, and government agencies to stay informed about the availability of fuel.
I was patient, knowing that fuel shortages were often temporary. Even with the way things were going, I tried to be patient and waited for the situation to improve. That was how I was able to survive fuel scarcity until everything returned to normal.
My Traditional Title Celebration
Happy Sunday, everyone! It was a joyous occasion as I was given a traditional title on behalf of the students. The title is NSOBOM, which means that I am the closest person to our traditional ruler on the school campus. I was informed that I would be the next person to hold the title, and I was so happy because it was like a dream come true. We had to plan for a celebration, so I called my parents and friends at home, and they all congratulated me."
Before the occasion, I sent letters to other schools and the state ministry of culture to inform them and request their support with tokens. The big day was on Saturday, and everyone who was invited was present. After all the necessary prayers and processes, I was awarded the title and crown. We celebrated with dancing, food, and drinks, and there was even a cultural display that made the event colorful. After the occasion, I was very happy to wear my crown to school and my classmates cheered me on. The title added respect to my personality and made me popular. It was truly a great day in my life, and I promised my people to be a listening chief and ruler.
Playing Snooker Game
Growing up, I have always admired the snooker game, as I am fond of outdoor games. So, I decided to take the initiative to learn and start playing the game. Whenever I play with my friend, I strive to score points by potting the object balls into the pockets in a specific order, using the cue ball to hit them.
My friend and I take turns with shots, and we aim to pot as many balls as we can while scoring the highest number of points. If I miss a shot or commit a foul, my turn ends and my friend takes over.
We continue playing until all of the balls have been potted, at which point the colored balls must be potted in a specific order. Most of the time, I am always the winner of the game as I consistently have the highest score at the end.
The main reason I'm always the winner is that the snooker game is a highly skilled and strategic game that requires a combination of precision, focus, and strategic thinking. I'm always more focused and strategic. I mostly play this game with my friends for fun.
My Life Living in the Village
Growing up in a village can be a unique and fulfilling experience, offering a sense of community, connection to nature, and opportunities to learn and develop life skills.
While in the village, I had more freedom to explore and play in natural environments. I used to go to the river to swim with my friends. We also used to go to farms regularly. This gave me a greater appreciation, as I understood and learned about the natural world. It helped me develop physically and mentally.
It provided me with a strong sense of community, as I knew other people both in my community and outside the community. I had access to a wider range of adult mentorship and it helped me with guidance and support as I was growing up.
In my village, the traditional values and customs were still held strongly, and they provided me with a strong cultural foundation and connection to our heritage. This helped me develop a sense of identity and pride in my roots.
However, growing up in a village presented different challenges, because there was limited access to modern technology and amenities. For me, it was a unique and enriching experience, as it offered me a strong sense of that community and connection to nature.
My University Experience
University experience can vary greatly depending on the individual, the institution, and the course of study. However, the time I spent pursuing higher education at the university was full of different experiences.
For many, the university experience begins with the application process, which can be rigorous and highly competitive, but mine began immediately when I was given admission. After my acceptance fee and the normal school registration, I spent four years on campus, taking a variety of courses.
Apart from academics part, I did a range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and social events. These provided me with opportunities to develop new skills, make friends, and explore new interests.
I lived off campus, and it was a little bit far from the university, which made it somewhat stressful for me, especially during morning lectures. However, it gave me the opportunity to develop independence as I learned life skills and made connections with other students.
My university experience was challenging, rewarding, and transformative at the same time. It helped me in my future career and personal life.
My Leisure Time
Sitting out for leisure can be refreshing as it is time I use for relaxing without engaging in any specific productive or goal-oriented activities. I do this most times because it is important for mental and emotional health. Anytime I'm sitting out for leisure, it helps reduce my stress and makes me feel relaxed.
It makes me feel recharged and focused. This prepares me for increased productivity the next day and a more positive outlook on life. During my leisure time, I engage with people and I find it pleasurable and rewarding. I also spend time with family and friends. I sometimes visit places, read books or watch movies.
Since it is an essential aspect of life, it helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance. It reduces my stress and improves my overall well-being. It helps me build my social life as it allows me to connect with others who share similar interests or passions with me. It is a time when I bond with my family and friends.
About Me
My name is Emem Udom, a native of Nsit Ubium, a local government in Akwa Ibom state. I spent eighteen years of my life in Abuja.
At the age of three, I started school at a seminary school called All Saint Nursery and Primary School. Life was confusing because I had no idea what was happening. All I would do was sleep, attend school, and eat. At the age of 8, I could read and write. I spent much time learning how to read and write because I was a slow learner. My dad would spend hours teaching me how to memorize a word.
After primary school, I took the mock exam for high school. I passed the exam and was admitted into a boarding house.
It was hard adapting because this was the first time I had left my parents’ house.
Choosing between science and arts was one of the major dilemmas I faced. I had a strong affinity for mathematics and physics, but chemistry posed a challenge for me, despite my passion for science. After speaking with the school counselor, I made the decision to pursue science.
We path to meet, and we meet to path
I'm a student who works as a teacher, strange right? Brief story, I worked with a school during the 'ASUU' strike, I was favored and loved by the school proprietress because of the way I handled children and the positive changes she saw in my students and the good comments she received from their guardians. Because of all this, when I was leaving after the strike, she said I could come back and continue working during long holidays.
So, the school was on a two-day mid-term break, a two-day rest for students and teachers from all school activities. One of the days, I took a walk down the street with thoughts in my head of how far I had come in this life. I headed towards the expressway and was about to cross to the other side when I heard voices calling out to me. I stopped and turned abruptly, behold!
My friends from back in secondary school who were like sisters to me were there. We shouted with great joy and ran to embrace each other, drawing the attention of passersby. We spent time together, gossiping just like we used to back in school, and talked about how life had been since we last saw each other. Then I remembered a phrase from a Corps member from when I was in school, "We part to meet, and we meet to part." Their school was actually on an excursion and they wanted to explore the environment. If I didn't take that path and they didn't take that path, we wouldn't have met. We exchanged numbers and promised to keep in touch with each other.
My Family Outing
A family outing can be a fun and enjoyable way to spend time together and create lasting memories. There were many different activities that my family and I did when we went out together. We went outdoors and we enjoyed nature. We also went for a walk, had a picnic and also played games.
We also went to the beach. We live a bit close to the coast, and that made the trip to the beach less stressful. After the beach, we visited the museum and art gallery. It was fun and educational at the same time. My brother insisted that we should visit the amusement park. Since I was looking for a more adventurous outing, I concurred too. We saw animals up close.
After the whole day, we all had a movie night at home. To wrap up the whole outing, we spent time together and had some fun inside the house. The family outing was a great way to bond as we created new memories together.
My Industrial Training Experience
Industrial training offers practical training to students, and this is done in an industry or an organization, typically as part of the academic curriculum. My industrial training provided me with hands-on experience of working in an actual work environment and bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
It was a valuable experience for me as it allowed me to gain exposure to real-world challenges and learn how to apply theoretical knowledge to solve practical problems. As an industrial training student, I had the opportunity to develop professional skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
The industrial training lasted for six months. During this time, I was assigned to a department within the organization and I worked under the guidance of a supervisor, Mr. Amad. It was worth the experience, coupled with the fact that it was an essential component of my academic program. It provided me with a valuable learning experience.
A Place Like Marina Resort
Marina is a popular tourist destination Iocated in Calabar, Nigeria. My first visit to this incredible place was amazing. I was captivated by the resort's unique blend of entertainment, relaxation, and culture. The resort features a variety of attractions that cater to people of all ages, including a water park, a cultural center, and a restaurant.
The zoo is one of the most popular attractions, housing a range of exotic animals. The water park is another attraction at the resort. It features an array of rides, including a wave pool, slides, and a lazy river. The water park is equipped with trained lifeguards to ensure the safety of visitors.
Another interesting place in the resort is the cultural center. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Calabar people. The center showcases traditional artifacts, masks, costumes, and musical instruments used by the people of Calabar. The marina resort also has a restaurant that serves local and continental dishes. The menu features a range of dishes, including seafood, grilled meat, and vegetarian options.
What a great place to experience the local culture, relax in a serene environment, and have fun with family and friends! If you're planning a trip to Calabar, be sure to include the Marina Resort in your itinerary.
I am Ikemsa Jnr, a Lover of Virtues
As a lover of virtues, I have come to understand and appreciate the importance of cultivating positive qualities in our lives. Virtues are the moral and ethical principles that guide our behavior and decision-making, helping us to live meaningful and fulfilling lives. They are the building blocks of our character and play a critical role in shaping our relationships, our values, and our overall well-being.
One of the virtues that I value the most is honesty. Honesty is the foundation of trust, and trust is the foundation of healthy relationships. When we are honest with ourselves and with others, we can build deeper connections, communicate more effectively, and make better decisions. Honesty requires courage and vulnerability, as it often means admitting our mistakes and shortcomings. However, the rewards of honesty are immeasurable, as they lead to greater integrity, respect, and authenticity.
Another virtue that I admire is empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It requires us to put ourselves in someone else's shoes and see the world from their perspective. Empathy is essential for building strong relationships, as it helps us connect with others on a deeper level, show compassion, and offer support. Empathy also helps us to be more accepting of diversity and to appreciate the unique experiences and perspectives of those around us.
Perseverance is another virtue that I hold in high esteem. Perseverance is the ability to persist in the face of challenges, setbacks, and obstacles. It requires determination, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failure. Perseverance is essential for achieving our goals and realizing our dreams, as it helps us overcome obstacles, stay focused, and maintain our motivation. Perseverance also helps us build our confidence and self-esteem, as we learn to trust in our abilities and our capacity to achieve great things.
Finally, I believe that gratitude is a vital virtue that we should all strive to cultivate. Gratitude is the practice of recognizing and appreciating the good things in our lives, both big and small. It helps us to focus on the positive aspects of our experiences, even in difficult times. Gratitude also helps us cultivate a sense of perspective, as we recognize the contributions of others and the gifts we have been given. Gratitude promotes positive emotions such as joy, contentment, and optimism, and it can lead to greater resilience, better health, and stronger relationships.
In conclusion, as a lover of virtues, I believe that cultivating positive qualities is essential for leading a fulfilling and meaningful life. Honesty, empathy, perseverance, and gratitude are just a few of the virtues that I hold in high esteem, but there are many others that we can strive to embody in our daily lives. By focusing on these virtues and practicing them consistently, we can build our character, strengthen our relationships, and create a better world for ourselves and those around us.
As Above, So Below
In the beginning, God takes a part of Themselves, says The Word and it explodes into Creation. Infinite waves transform into infinite particles when God observes them as Good.
As God watches, each of these particles chooses to venture one way—instead of all other ways—and particles join together into groups.
What made me enter that coffee shop instead of another? What made me push my way into a conversation between three people I did not know? Did I make that move because God was watching me (to) do it? Did I choose to invite them to see my artwork because God observed it as a good thing to do?
Groups do what groups do…they act and interact often toward a specific goal. After the goal is reached, the group drifts apart. OR If the group grows too large and unwieldy, it implodes and then explodes. Either way, disintegration happens.
Sometimes, one group will come upon another, and the two groups either join together or they battle, and other kinds of change and mayhem take place.
Credit: NASA
These processes take place on Earth just as they do in the Cosmos.
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For many years. scientists shared data and research over electronic file transfer (FTP) communication lines between universities. Then visionaries created graphical interfaces (GUIs) for the rest of the world, so everyone could share information and ideas with universities, family, friends—and even foes.
In an ideal internet, individuals would randomly go one way, instead of all others, simply based on what they observe (read and explore) and choose to connect with.
Discussions of the artwork led to discussions of galleries, online art auctions, joining online groups, and getting to know the other artists, writers, editors, and creators.
Internet groups go through the same cycles as the grouped particles of the cosmos. And, as in the cosmos, when a group gets too big to sustain itself, it implodes and then explodes, or it implodes (self-absorption) and sucks into it everyone close by—the equivalent of Black Holes on the Internet and in the earthly life: Mobs. Cults. Extremist groups. Groups of denial, apathy, and skepticism. Absolutes and inflexible ideologies.
In time I learned that the online group I joined originated with a philosophy and political ideology which goes against my hopes and beliefs. There were collisions, repulsions, damage done, and eventual disintegration–at least by me. But the experience deepened my awareness and my capacity to accept differences and appreciate knowing people different from myself. It expanded my consciousness.
I suspect, when all is said and done, the value of this self-absorbed destruction will have great benefit to the cosmos, too. ‘Self-absorbed destruction’ already satisfies physicists who were worried that Einstein had been wrong about Dark Matter. Mathematically, they proved Dark Matter exists. But where? As it was recently found, the amount of Dark Matter contained in the Black Holes of the cosmos is the right amount of Dark Matter predicted by Einstein.
God does not waste energy.
Ambassador Report
It's a thing of joy to receive large numbers of design entries each week. Week 51 activities have been filled with great artistic designs generated by the members of the Community DAO marketing team. Through these designs, we have been able to fill our corral with mind-blowing NFTs out for sale at the Ravenist NFT marketplace. Yes, we are among the top publishers of digital art and we will not stop at any point. A summary of the activities and engagements on week 51 is processed in Leaderboard 51 below. Remember, we are open to accepting new members from all walks of life.