How this Nigerian Female Singer Distinguished Herself from Fellow Singers

Niniola (Nigerian singer and songwriter)

Fame and Fortune comes with a lot of stress and inconveniences. It takes a lot of maturity, wisdom and spirituality to handle a Celebrity status and being a Public Figure. Many female artists in the Nigerian music industry have always been in one drama or the other. Only very few artists are able to maintain a clean reputation and live without drama. There is one artist who has caught my attention and her songs are topnotch too. This female Nigerian artist have really distinguished herself; suffice to say that she knows her onion. And she is honorarily known as the Queen of Afro-House; in my own perspective she truly deserves this title. You would ask: who is this artist? Her name is Niniola!

Niniola Biography

Niniola was born on born 15 December 1986 as Niniola Apata to the family of Rt. Brigadier General Simeon Olaosebikan Apata and Mrs. Margaret Apata in Lagos State. She is known professionally as Niniola, a singer and songwriter. Niniola is a Nigerian singer and sognwriter. She is the direct elder sister to Teni. Niniola began her journey to limelight after she participated in the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa in 2013. She released her debut single “Ibadi”, and was nominated for Most Promising Act to Watch at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Education

Niniola began her education both primary and secondary school education at Apata Memorial High School, and she earned a bachelor of education certificate from the University of Lagos.[8] She comes from a polygamous family where she was the sixth of ten children, raised by three mothers and a father who was killed in 1995

Music Career

According to Niniola, her musical influences are: Dolly PartonWhitney HoustonCeline DionThe CranberriesMadonnaBeyoncé and Angélique Kidjo. During an interview with Gbolahan Adeyemi of NGWide in 2015, Niniola expressed her fondness for singing in Yoruba, citing that it enhances the beauty of song delivery. As of 2018 Niniola’s style of music was described according to BET as “a mixture of afrobeats and house music.” Niniola released the Sarz-produced single “Maradona” in 2017. The song spent 13 weeks on South Africa’s Metro FM chart, retaining the number 1 position for 6 weeks. Niniola earned nominations at the 2018 BET Awards and SAMAs for “Maradona”. In 2018 DJ Snake teamed up with Niniola and created Maradona Riddim a remix to her previously released hit Maradona. She received nods from Canadian rapper Drake and American record producer Timbaland.

Some of the hit songs of Niniola which are actually my favorites are Designer and All Eyes on Me. These songs are truly a must watch and she displayed panache in the videos. Believe me, the video qualities of the videos are topnotch! I Another thing that makes me admire Niniola is the fact that she is able to sing in her mother tongue of Yoruba. Being able to sing in one’s mother tongue is another sign of being highly talented. I always enjoy playing Designer and All Eyes on Me on repeat. For example, in the song Designer; she said:

Awon kon like Gucci
Awon kon like Fendi
Awon kon like Seruti
E mi o like ehh
Awon kon like Gucci
Awon kon like Ferrari
Awon kon like Designer

Na the way you dey do me
Na the wa you dey do me
Boy I like the way you dey do me
I Like the way

Laarun Laarun La shi shey laarun laarun
Laarun Laarun La shi shey laarun laarun
Laarun Laarun jaiye lo laarun laarun
Laarun Laarun jaiye lo laarun laarun Let me kiss you kpa
Wine your waist jukpa
E mi man jerukpa
Wine your waist jukpa
If I am going to be honest with you; I would tell you that the lyrics of Designer by Niniola are enchanting and beautiful. The lyrics of All Eyes on Me are cool too. From the beat and rhythm of these In the song All Eyes on Me she said in part:

Ma kesekese wa sinu party yi now
Ma kesekese wa sinu party yi now
Tori boucner wa leyin ‘le kun wa ti ri

All eyes on me when I enter the party oh e
All eyes on me when I enter the party e (All eyes on me)
Ma kesekese wa sinu party yi now
Mo ni ma rin gbere gbere wa sinu party yi now

Won gbe, wan gba
Morire gba

On Being an Independent Artist

In a recent interview with TVC she explained why she has chosen to be a solo artist. According to Niniola she turned down offers from record labels to sign her because she is wary of the business side of music. According to her, various labels have approached her, but she chose to remain independent. She explained that being an independent artist gives her creative freedom.

“I have been an independent artist for 10 years. There are pros and cons of signing with a record label. I have seen the business side of doing music which a lot of people don’t see, they just focused only on making music. “Being an independent artist gives me the opportunity to also do what I want. I’m in charge of my creativity. A label wanted to sign me after my debut single but I was skeptical because I didn’t want anyone to switch my style. Because at that time, nobody was doing Afro-house. They can dictate what you do because they are the ones financing you. For me, creative freedom is one of the major pros of being an indie artist,” she said. Niniola also disclosed that she is an introvert but music brings out the extrovert in her.

For Niniola to be able to maintain her music career as a solo artist means that money is her servant. Trust me, she has had a very successful music career as she currently has over one million followers on Instagram. But above all, she has maintained a clean reputation devoid of drama like is common with many artists.

Discovering Your Heritage: The Power of Ancestral Connections

There are 2 connections we have with our Ancestors. This connections can be different for everyone depending on the family history, covenant and ancestral patterns that exists in that family. The first connection I will talk about is the connection to know your root. To know where you are from and know your culture; that is why every sane parents should make sure their children knows their roots. Knowing your root has its own level blessing, peace and freedom that comes with it. I have seen countless times where people who were born in faraway lands or live in faraway lands have to trace back their roots to connect with their ancestors just to feel the freedom, joy, peace and blessing that comes from knowing where you are. Connecting with your ancestors is not literally you going to the shrine to do libation and such. It is knowing who you and where you are from. This connection often involves getting to know your hometown, country, state and family members. The land which walk as your root gives you a level of freedom, inner peace and pride–in you knowing that THIS is where I am from.

The other “connection” to ancestor is the one of liberation. In this connection to your ancestors. Your aim is to visit your ancestors (energetically) to remove yourself from every karmic debt, covenant and negative patterns that have been existing in your family. This kind of patterns usually creates chaos, setbacks, misfortunes , evils and other kinds of negativity in the life of that person because you are still under the influence of the ancestral covenant of darkness. So the question is how do you connect with your ancestors? And how do you liberate yourself from ancestral negative covenant and patterns hampering your success? I will share with you a prayer for the ancestors written by Abby Wynne. Keep in mind that there are other ways you can explore….but I just loved this prayer from Abby Wynne; since I subscribe to her newsletter I was able to get this prayer from her newsletter and I thought I would share with us. I hope you find it helpful. But keep in mind that other extra works are required to back it up even as you pray to liberate yourself from the negative ancestral patterns that you may have been carrying unknowingly to you!

For the Ancestors 

I call on my ancestors and say thank you for all you endured so that I could be here. I appreciate you. I break the chains you carried through the generations. It stops right here, with me. I know some of you don’t understand, some envy, some anger, but it is my time now. I release the bonds, chains, trauma, patterns and anything that is holding me back anything that held you back so that we can blossom. I know some of you celebrate with me, clap my successes, weep when I fall down…It is because of you I get back up again. It is because of you, I push through

We evolve and grow – each generation because of the works of the hands of the last generations. To my great, great, great, great, greats. I honour you. Each one of you, those that I knew and those of you that I will never know, To all of you. I know you in my heart. And you know me and together, unity.

May November bring abundance, uplifting opportunities, progress, higher vibrational lifestyle, constant Divinity, sweetness and joy

The BEST Speech Ever Made!

Don’t Miss A Word! The Famous and Profound Speech by Miriam Novak The UN General Assembly

Miriam Novak (Oblong Media)

“We have given you the alphabet, the Bible, the Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ, the twelve apostles, Spinoza, Disraeli, Columbus, Newton, Nostradamus, Heine, Mendelssohn, Einstein, Singer, Eisenstein, Freud, Landau, Gershwin, Offenbach, Rubinstein, Saint-Saëns, Kafka, Lombroso, Montaigne, Mahler, Marcel Marceau, Vsevolod Meyerhold, Yehudi Menuhin, Stefan Zweig, Arthur Miller, Maya Plisetskaya, Stanley Kubrick, Irving Berlin, Edward Teller, Lion Feuchtwanger, Paul Newman, Robert Oppenheimer, Benny Goodman, Eugène Ionesco, Imre Kálmán, Marcel Proust, Marc Chagall, Barbra Streisand, Claude Lelouch, Steven Spielberg, Anouk Aimée, Leonard Bernstein, Norbert Wiener, Larry Page, Mark Zuckerberg, Sergey Brin, Andrew Lloyd Webber and thousands of other scientists and educators.”

For two thousand years we have lived among you, offering you our knowledge, discoveries and inventions.

At the UN Special General Assembly in New York, held at the request of the leaders of the European Union and the New Arab Bloc, the representative of Israel, Miriam Novak, spoke.

Standing at the podium, in front of the green marble wall of the main UN hall, Miriam Novak said into the microphone:

“Ladies and gentlemen! As you know, eighty years ago, Europe, led by Germany, carried out an ethnic purge: it exterminated almost all the Jews who lived there. French, Belgians, Dutch, Norwegians, Hungarians, Slovaks, Poles, Lithuanians, Ukrainians – all helped the fascists.

You killed at least six million Jews, including newborn babies. Each of them could have given the world children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, so you can multiply the number of killed by four or five…

And now, when we are again plundered, beaten and killed in all your countries, and your courts release the murderers, you tell us that we have no right to defend ourselves?

We have no right to warn our enemies that we will respond to a new ethnic cleansing with an even more powerful strike?

Perhaps you can name another nation whose extermination is so fanatically sought by your new Iranian-led international community? And why?

For two thousand years, we have lived among you, offering you our knowledge, discoveries and inventions.

We have given you the alphabet, the Bible, the Virgin Mary, Jesus Christ, the twelve apostles, Spinoza, Disraeli, Columbus, Newton, Nostradamus, Heine, Mendelssohn, Einstein, Singer, Eisenstein, Freud, Landau, Gershwin, Offenbach, Rubinstein, Saint-Saëns, Kafka, Lombroso, Montaigne, Mahler, Marcel Marceau, Vsevolod Meyerhold, Yehudi Menuhin, Stefan Zweig, Arthur Miller, Maya Plisetskaya, Stanley Kubrick, Irving Berlin, Edward Teller, Lion Feuchtwanger, Paul Newman, Robert Oppenheimer, Benny Goodman, Eugène Ionesco, Imre Kálmán, Marcel Proust, Marc Chagall, Barbra Streisand, Claude Lelouch, Steven Spielberg, Anouk Aimée, Leonard Bernstein, Norbert Wiener, Larry Page, Mark Zuckerberg, Sergey Brin, Andrew Lloyd Webber and thousands of other scientists and educators.

Imagine how many such geniuses could have been born from the millions of Jews killed by you, and then from their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren!

But these unborn geniuses disappeared forever in crematoriums, burned synagogues, and mass graves.

So do you really think that your resolutions, boycotts and sanctions can bring us back to the gas chambers?

No, ladies and gentlemen! Having lived among you for two thousand years, we have had to adapt to you and learn not only your languages, but also some aspects of your psychology.

Otherwise, how would we have survived in Persia without Persian perfidy? In Spain without the Spanish cruelty? In Germany without German submission to discipline? In France without French avarice? In Poland without Polish vanity, and in Russia without the oaths and the Russian habit of court latrines, where one must squat and talk about one’s spiritual greatness? — (Laughter in the room.)

“And that is why I will tell you frankly: yes, we are not angels. Among us there have been international crooks and gangsters, Lansky, Medoff and Epstein, thieves, looters, adventurers and even pedophiles.

But in all our common history, there has never been a Jewish Bogdan Khmelnitsky, Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin. There have never been Jewish Josef Mengele and Erik Koch, Jewish Adolf Eichmann and Idi Amin, Jewish Andrei Chikatilo and Li Zicheng, Jewish Jeffrey Dahmer and Jean Bokassa, Jewish Fritz Haarmann and Ted Bundy, Jewish Nikolai Dzhumagaliev and Albert Fish.

We have never made necklaces with human ears, never scalped, never eaten human flesh, never made soap with human fat, never made lampshades with human skin, never made mattresses with women’s hair, never burned people in religious temples, and never killed children in gas chambers. Instead, we created things that changed the world for the better.

Drip irrigation, seawater desalination, Intel processors and Centrino and Core Duo platforms, the world’s smallest DNA computer and the world’s first USB flash drive, nanowire and camera pill, multiple sclerosis drug and exoskeleton, Google Glass for the blind and baby breathing monitor, The radar that can see through walls, the holographic reality artificial intelligence synthesizer, and hundreds of other wonderful things.

Representing only 0.2% of the world’s population, we have given the world 32% of the Nobel Prize winners. Yes, I forgot to tell you: we have never consumed and do not consume the blood of Christian infants to make matzah. Already in 1913, three Orthodox experts on Judaism proved this at the famous Beilis trial in Kiev.

In 1962, the Second Vatican Council lifted our guilt for the crucifixion of Christ, and in 2011, Pope Benedict XVI declared that “the Christian cannot be anti-Semitic, we have the same roots.” In 2019, his successor, Pope Francis I, said that “every Christian has a Jew in him” and that “one cannot be a true Christian without acknowledging one’s Jewish roots.”

In addition, the head of the global Catholic Church said that “the covenant between God and Jews continues to apply” and “that anti-Semitism includes not only attacks on Jews, but also criticism of Israel.”

Finally, in June 2020, the Rev. John Hagee, the leader of American Evangelical Christians, published his “Appeal to the World,” in which he said simply and clearly, “Why do we, eight million patriotic American Christians, support Israel? Because God is on Israel’s side! If a Christian says he doesn’t like Jews, then his false Christianity is very dubious. God says, “I will bless those who bless Israel! I will curse those who curse Israel!”

And now I want to ask the European delegates in this room: who do you think you are? Are you Christians or not? When you pray to Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the holy apostles, are you not praying to the Jews? And when you say that you carry the image of Christ in your heart, do you not admit that you carry a Jew in your soul?

Even if you are a hard-core atheist, your ancestors were Christians for two thousand years, and therefore, Judaism is in your blood – whether you like it or not!

So, ladies and gentlemen. If you insist on the international boycott of Israel because you continue to hate Jews and want the total extermination of Jews on earth, then be consistent – start with yourselves, do seppuku! It will be an honest ethnic purge.

And now, as we say here in America, I have news for you. Now, after the Christians, it is the turn of the Muslims to get rid of anti-Semitism.

Yes, it won’t be easy, but just as the Almighty helped humanity get rid of the bubonic plague, anthrax, cholera, and coronavirus, He will help you get rid of anti-Semitism.

You ask: why? Why has the Almighty brought us back to Israel and forced you to give up your desire to destroy us? For He has to have a purpose, doesn’t He?

I will give you my personal opinion. For according to His purpose, every nation is to bring to mankind what it does best.

The French – cooks and perfumers.

The English and the Russians – writers and poets.

Italians – artists and musicians.

The Germans – soldiers and philosophers.

And we Jews – geniuses.

Geniuses who, in all fields, are advancing humanity from barbarism and idolatry to culture, humanism and technical progress. This is our mission, which we have been accomplishing for two thousand years, despite everything!

So whether we have genetic, torsional, nuclear, tectonic, cosmic, or other defense weapons, that’s none of your business! Whether you allow us to have defensive weapons or not, we don’t care.

As one of the founders of our state, Ze’ev Jabotinsky, once said: “Whether you like us or not, we don’t care, we arrived before you and we will leave after you.”

Friendship That Got Community Talking

I feel very happy to share this story with you. This story is a very a unique story and part of what makes me happy to share this story with you is because it is an award winning story! I have not won any award yet. But the fact that I was selected by a UK based publishing company to write this story (which has premiered in the Tribeca Film Festival in Cannes France and also won the American Cultural Impact Award); is something I am extremely grateful for and proud of too. I am going to share a little about this story here and I will put a link for you to read my feature post about this lovely story in the UK publishing website where it has already been published. But I am just sharing it here on my blog out of gratitude.

Nate and John first meet in the sixties when John, a surly teen hippy, is forced to get a haircut and Nate, a Black young barber’s assistant, obliges. From this ordinary beginning, a slow profound friendship blossoms between the two men over decades’ worth of trips to Nate’s barber chair.

As Nate and John grow old, they are there to support each other through all of life’s important milestones and hurdles. Until one day, when Nate misses their usual appointment for the first time ever. As John discovers Nate in a hospital bed, he also learns the scale of Nate’s impact on the community.

Nate & John

Read more about this story with this link.

The Importance of Railbus in my City (Abuja)

Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria stands on the precipice of an uncertain future, driven by its rapid population growth. Encircling the city lie several satellite towns, such as Gwagwalada, Bwari, Kuje, Maraba, and Karshi, that were originally intended to be homes for the working-class and low-income earners. The idea was to facilitate daily commutes for people who work in the city centre. However, mainly due to the lack of a functional urban mobility network, the planned spatial arrangement in these settlements has not been successful. As a result, residents are left with no choice but to rely on private cars and taxis. This reliance is worsening the growing traffic congestion and exposing residents to high amounts of ambient carbon dioxide daily.

Railbus pictures: http://www.railbus.com

Socio-economically, the absence of affordable railbus services in Abuja translates to the city’s underpaid working class spending a substantial part of their meagre income on transportation, leaving very little for essential needs like food. This reality significantly contributes to the growing chasm between the city’s rich and poor. This situation has been further exacerbated by the recent removal of petroleum subsidies, resulting in a staggering 200 per cent hike in petrol costs. To avoid the high cost and inconvenience of commuting to and from the city centre, many of Abuja’s low-income earners have chosen to live near the city at all costs.

Railbuses are designed to utilize sustainable energy sources like electricity or hybrid systems that emit very low or no greenhouse gases. This makes them a greener mode of public transport.

The benefits of Railbus mobility cannot be overemphasized. Railbus will play a vital role in ensuring environmental and social justice in Abuja as it has the capacity of bringing equitable distribution of transportation and ensuring seamless access to local destinations, goods and services within the city.

Creating a sustainable and equitable railbus system is crucial for Abuja as it will bring an integrated, sustainable multi-modal transport system that significantly reduces the number of private cars on the road and seamlessly citizens at different levels, with options to alternate between transport modes as needed.

By seamlessly integrating the Railbus options in Abuja; it can create a comprehensive low-cost mobility solution that has the potential to address equity issues by providing affordable and equitable access to urban spaces.

The chronic congestion and the dilapidated state of road networks in Abuja signals the urgent need for innovative transport solutions. Railbus, with its potential for high-volume passenger transport, presents an effective answer to these challenges. Its adoption could significantly reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, and enhance the overall efficiency of the city’s transport system.

Establishment of Railbus in Abuja would lead to job creation, not only within the transport sector but also across ancillary industries. Additionally, by improving accessibility to urban and rural areas, it can spur economic activities and foster trade. Ultimately, the increased efficiency in transportation will translate into cost savings for both commuters and goods, contributing positively to the city economy.

The introduction of RAILBUS services stands to immensely benefit local communities. Enhanced mobility can lead to improved access to education and healthcare, thereby advancing social welfare. Furthermore, the Railbus system will promote inclusivity by providing affordable and reliable transport options, bridging the gap between different socioeconomic groups within the city.

In terms of environmental sustainability, the shift towards Railbus systems signifies a major stride towards sustainability. Rail-based transport is known for its lower carbon footprint compared to road vehicles, thereby contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The adoption of Railbus in Abuja will help to combat climate change and promote environmental conservation.

Urban areas suffer from significant noise pollution due to conventional traffic. The Railbus, particularly electric models, operates more quietly than traditional buses and trains. Reduced noise levels not only improve the quality of life for urban residents but also have positive effects on wildlife, which can be adversely affected by high noise levels.

The Railbus system holds tremendous promise for Abuja, offering a viable solution to the city long-standing public transportation challenges. By leveraging existing infrastructure, promoting environmental sustainability, and fostering economic growth, the Railbus has the potential to transform the way citizens move and connect. Since Railbus can easily reach areas not easily reached by traditional rail systems; giving passengers extensive transport network coverage and convenience ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous future for Abuja.

Mercy Johnson and Her Colleagues: The Way I See It

(From left: Angela Okorie, Mercy Johnson & Husband: Legit News)

I do not usually interfere the squabbles of celebrities. But this one really got my attention. For some time now, there have been altercations upon altercations between Nollywood actresses. This time the altercation is between Mercy Johnson and Angela Okorie. Mercy Johnson is a household name in Nigeria and one of the most popular Nollywood actresses. But it looks as if she is in hot water.

What made me to be interested in this issue is because Mercy Johnson has refused to come out to clear her name. Instead of her to come out and clear her name. The husband was the one who came out to give a reply. Something I find to be very distasteful, unmanly and unwise.

So what is the altercation between Mercy Johnson and Angela Okorie about?

Angela Okorie Calls Out Mercy Johnson

Nollywood actress Angela Okorie has called out her colleague Mercy Johnson Okojie with surprising clandestine claims against her.

In her Instagram story, she declared that it is time for murders, blood-drinking devils, and evildoers in Nollywood to be put to an end. 

“Time up for evildoers in Nollywood. Time up for Mercy J. After these prayers, I pray some of you don’t turn to Goat. Cos, I don’t know why she is turning into a goat instead of Snake. God abeg o,” she said in part.

Nigerian actress Angela Okorie generated another buzz online as she called out Mercy Johnson Okojie The screen goddess made several mysterious claims about her colleague and also added her late mother to the picture Angela further pointed out the importance of prayers in the Nollywood industry so that God could open their eyes to all that she was seeing.

Actress, Mercy Johnson’s Alleged Best Friend Accuses Actress of Being a Witch, Recalls Childhood Experience

The recent accusation against veteran Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson Okojie by her colleague, Angela Okorie has escalated further. This is as Ifeoma, who is allegedly a former best friend to the mother of four, told her story as she called Mercy out for witchcraft.

During an Instagram live session with Angela, who recently dragged Zubby Michael, Ifeoma accused Mercy of black magic, alleging that her late mother was the brain behind it. According to Ifeoma, Mercy was initiated at a young age as her mum and grandmum were witches. Recounting a childhood experience, Ifeoma claimed Mercy’s mum made her exchange her clothes with the actress in a strange room.

I watched this video on Instagram of Ifeoma (Mercy Johnson childhood friend telling Angela Okorie about this same issue). From what I can deduce is that someone cannot have such effrontery to spill out these facts if there is no evidence or experience of it.

No doubt, Mercy Johnson is a talented actress. Even before all these squabbles has begun; I have somehow felt the same way about Mercy Johnson. Well, there is nothing wrong in using one’s metaphysical power for one’s upliftment. So if Mercy Johnson is a witch and she used her witchcraft to launch herself into limelight; then good for her! But if there are evil activities on her part like her childhood friend Ifeoma has been saying that Mercy Johnson mother swapped her destiny with Mercy destiny; then Karma and Nemesis will definitely come for Mercy. Also, I am not too surprised to hear this about Mercy Johnson because since I learnt that she is from Kogi state; that was when I knew she would definitely behave like a Kogi person.

Back to Mercy Johnson Husband

Many people have slammed Mercy Johnson husband for his response to Angela Okorie. For me Mercy husband coming out to give a response to Angela is very foolish. If he was a wise husband, he would encourage Mercy to come out and address the issue. From the response he gave to Angela Okorie that alone justified everything that Angela Okorie has said about Mercy Johnson. Plus, Mercy Johnson keeping quiet over it justifies it too.

I want to hear from you. Do you think it is right for a husband to reply his wife’s colleague or friend when his wife is being called out by her friend/colleague? Does it even make sense for a man to be the one to reply to his wife’s friend/colleague when the wife is having squabbles with her friends/colleagues? Could it not have been better for Mercy husband to advise Mercy to come out and clear her name or respond to Angela and her own childhood best friend? What better way could Mercy Johnson husband have responded? Just in case you are wondering: here is what Mercy Johnson responded to Angela Okorie

“Na Mango Wey Ripe Dem They Throw Sticks at”

In turn, Angela Okorie responded to Mercy husband

Reacting to claims of her battling mental issues, Angela, in a live video, mocked Prince Okojie, whom she called a houseboy under his wife’s alleged witchcraft influence.

She added that Prince would remain under Mercy’s spell for the rest of his life. Amid the backlash that trailed her comment about Mercy, Angela stood by her accusations against Mercy. “To that houseboy wey dem dey use; you no fit get sense for life, na so you go dey carry handbag for life. I no dey tarnish the image of Mercy Johnson, I called her out with my full chest. Why? Because at the end of the day, you’re not better than me,” she said.

Kogi people are FAMOUSLY known for being VERY diabolical. Kogi is a state in central Nigeria; Black magic is the MAINSTAY of Kogi people. I read a Kogi girl saying that though she is from Kogi state that she can never live in Kogi. Another one said he had to run away from Kogi state so that they will not kill him as he was the only child of his parents. I have a reservation for that state…and trust me when you hear someone say that Kogi people are evil believe it.

Personally, I have also had an experience with a Kogi person. We were supposed to be a team member. But his toxicity was too much for me to bear. Even from the first day he told me that he is from Kogi state that was when I knew he would behave like one and he did. For my sanity and wellness, I had to pull out of that group and got rid of him. It was a very good riddance.

See What Happened to Me in 2023

This year 2023 has been nothing short of adventures for me. With so MANY lessons and BLESSINGS; as we are now in the last month of the year, I am full of reflections of the past eleven months. I am looking forward with a great curiosity what the following year is bringing for me.

Reflections and Meditations
Photo Credit: Pexels.com

I used to do New Year Resolutions but I have chosen a different approach. Actually, I am not condemning doing New Year Resolutions. It helps to give clarity and directions. Suffice to say that it also helps to set the tone for a positive life momentum. Yes, I have the things I love to manifest in the New Year.

Dear Universe, Kwan Yin, Buddha, Jesus Christ, Holy Mother Mary, Spirit Guides and Angels dwelling in the Realms of Light and Love:

I thank you for all the provision, protection and progress I have made this year so far. I am looking forward to the following year (2024) in confidence, gratitude and sure expectations of the many miracles, endorsements, appointments, progress and unlimited possibilities that is already cooking for me in the Greater (Invisible) Realms of Light and Love—all of which are manifesting for my highest good and wellbeing.

Receiving. When the Universe finally delivers my requests (LOL)
Shot of a courier making a delivery to a customer at her home: Pexel.com

Thank you for the Extravagant Grace and Wisdom to live in harmony with my dreams and Divine Rights and to be a Pillar of Light. I am also thankful because my family and I are safe, sound, strong and well taken care of.

Yes, let all the Goodies of 2024 pour forth to me—kith and kin. My hands are wide open to receive them. For this I am thankful.

Christmas is just one week away from today; it is a season of busyness and “Love” as they say. But I still believe that Love is a fruit in all seasons and it is within the reach of every hand. As said by the beloved Mother Theresa. I have grown past the consciousness of seasonal love and giving. I strongly believe that every day is Christmas. Giving and Love are things to be done every day. I also strongly believe that remembering the birth of Christ should not only for festivities—it should also be reflected in our lives and daily living. Now, in saying in this I am certainly not condemning celebrating Christmas or condemning people celebrating. It is good to celebrate Christmas.

Expectations and Looking forward to a better tomorrow
Photo Credit: Pexel

One thing I have grown to learn is gratitude. A grateful mind is a magnet for miracles. I look back this year with so much gratitude. But, if I am going to be honest I would be extremely correct to say that I am BLESSED and FORTUNATE A dear friend of mine told me few weeks ago—“you really have God’s backing.” I totally agree with that because I am so sure that the Universe, Kwan Yin and my Angels have my back (that includes God too).

Happy Christmas to my dear readers and subscribers with a Super Prosperous New Year; I will see you all in 2024 luminously and in wellness.

Embrace the Energy of Abundance

Abundance is a VERY GOOD reality to live in. But for some reasons people have abundance blocks…our natural state is abundance; but due to some reasons we have barriers to abundance. Although there are people who have mastered the art of creating abundance and it is a skill worth having. From my own personal experience I have grown to learn that abundance is about Consciousness.

That is why I decided to share with you a topic about abundance gotten from Sarah Prout website. I am sure you will learn something from it.

The concept of “abundance” extends beyond material wealth to a holistic state of well-being. Embracing an abundance mindset can alter your life experience, shaping not just your circumstances, but also who you become.

Cornucopia: (Pixabay)

Caught in the scarcity trap, we tend to believe there’s not enough—be it money, opportunities, or love. This mindset generates stress and often results in fear-based decisions. An abundance mindset, however, transforms your perspective to see possibilities rather than limitations. Challenges become avenues for growth, rather than roadblocks.

Begin by practicing gratitude for what you already possess, no matter how insignificant it may appear. Gratitude paves the way for more to flow into your life. Shift from a competitive to a collaborative outlook. Life isn’t a zero-sum game; we can all win in the grand scheme.

To solidify this change, consider adding the affirmation “I AM THE ENERGY OF ABUNDANCE” in your Dear Universe journal.

Affirmations like this can serve as daily reminders that help align your mindset with a reality of abundance.

A Fall arrangement in a cornucopia on a white background (Pixabay)

Lastly, adopt a growth mindset. Believe that skills, intelligence, and circumstances can evolve over time with focused effort. The belief in abundance is self-perpetuating; the more you affirm it, the more you attract. Your mindset isn’t merely a viewpoint; it’s a catalyst that shapes your world. 

Choose Abundance.

With Love & Gratitude,

Sarah Prout xo

My Online EBook Store

Ever since I traditionally published my children’s book Cindy and Her Beautiful Bird, I have really learnt a lot! In fact publishing Cindy and Her Beautiful Bird was an eye-opener for me on how the publishing industry works.

After all said and done, I decided to take the route of self-publishing. Guess what? I FEEL BETTER, happier, grateful and fulfilled to myself for making this decision. I am a wordsmith by my own right! At the moment I have four books on my ebook store and more are coming soon. What I am doing now is working on promoting my online ebook stores and books. It is a journey and a work in progress. I am doing it for me. I am thankful to the Universe and Kwan Yin because they are working out things well for me. I will NEVER trade self-publishing for Traditional Publishing unless on an exceptional and specific situation.

Below are my ebooks and the link to my online ebook stores. Trust me; these books are definitely worth your read! Check them out, leave reviews and share with your networks.

Thank you.

Kingsley Osajie

Mental Health Discussion: An Interview with Dorian S. Withrow Jr.

Today, I want to talk about Mental Health and I have with me an intelligent handsome young man who I am discussing this important issue with. Without further ado; let us begin the discussion

What is your name? And how old are you?

I am Dorian S. Withrow Jr. 23-year-old author

Dorian S. Withrow Jr.

What profession are you into?

Business and writing. I received my bachelor’s in science. I majored in (ABEC) Animal Behavior Ecology and Conservation with a minor Philosophy. Some of my favorite courses were to do with philosophy. Discussion is my favorite part of any class.

What is your thought on mental health?

Mental Health is often ignored and frowned upon by some people because of its association with having “problems”. We like to know we have some bumps and scars, but mental care is unnecessary. I find this to be untrue. Some people may not have the most positive and productive outlook on life and other people. Those are the bruises, scratches, and long-lasting wounds; They are harder to heal. Through internal troubles, the consequences of their approach to life, actions, and habits speak for themselves. We should treat our mental health like the things we hold most dear.

What are the ways you think depression, anxiety, sadness and grief can be overcome?

Three pieces of advice that can combat some of these issues are from my experience dealing with them. Number one, I like to engage in recreational activities. Activities I can get lost in, such as martial arts training, sports, and activities with family. The second tool I like to play is learning. I seek more information about the problems I’m experiencing. I believe the more I know, the better I can overcome those troubled states. Lastly, I apply coping mechanisms. I like writing poetry or stories, particularly about anything I have my mind on. There are more ways than just writing, like making art, music, dancing, exercise, and positive games. Here’s a bonus! I like to remind myself of my list of what it takes to make goals and vision boards. The list and vision board help me shift my focus away from what’s causing internal turmoil.

What do you see as the cause of depression, anxiety, sadness and Grief?

I think some causes (there are a ton) for those poor emotional states of being is death, financial health, and comparison. We live in a world where all of those things are inevitable. So it is relevant that we take steps to deal with the troubles internally and externally.

As a Black American, have you ever been faced with the issues racism? And how did you deal with it?

I have dealt with racism in some areas of schooling, traffic stops, and gatekeeping opportunities. Whether the work troubles, school issues, or community concerns, advocacy is needed. We can accomplish advocacy through small things like social media posts, word of mouth, community gatherings for discussions, and leading or joining advocacy groups. There is slightly more grand involvement regarding advocacy through campaigns, marches, boycotting, council meetings, and changing political policy. I think the first and most important learning.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies include action and comedy movies. I love family time. It’s hard for me to say no to some recreational activities. I’ve taken a liking for reading unique literature in the philosophy arena. Martial arts is always one of my favorite pastimes

Dorian and his family

How do you describe your life orientation?

My life orientation is directed towards self-improvement and helping others by providing what I have gained.

Do you have influences or mentors?

I’ve learned to use the world as your mentor and guiding force. Let it be your educator

If you are given opportunity to explore the world, what countries would you love to travel to?

I take an interest in traveling to the African West Coast, Madagascar and some Pacific Islands.

Assuming you are put in a position of leadership, what are the world problems you will want to proffer solutions to?

I desire to help change the socioeconomic status of our people when I place myself in a leadership position.