LABARINA: THE UNEXPECTED LESSON FROM CALABAR

LABARINA : THE UNEXPECTED LESSON FROM CALABAR

A friend shared a startling story with me about a media crew in Calabar. During an event, the power supply was interrupted, and when it was restored, a team member plugged his phone into the system. But what appeared on the screen shocked everyone - explicit images from his phone were displayed for all to see.

The crew quickly removed the phone, but the damage was done. The incident highlighted a crucial lesson: church media is not just about what we display on screens, but also about our personal lifestyle and habits.

As church media representatives, we must be mindful of what we consume, post, and share online. Our actions and choices reflect not only on ourselves but also on the church and our faith.

Church media encompasses more than just technical aspects; it's about living a life that honors God in every aspect, including our online presence and personal habits."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA - THE OLDER ONES AND THE NORM

THE OLDER ONES AND THE NORM

Good evening, everyone. Today, I had a profound experience while teaching that made me reflect on our behavior towards others. One of my students was acting stressed or abnormal, and I initially wanted to react harshly. However, I took a moment to calm down and responded gently instead.

Later, during a discussion with fellow youths, we shared concerns about the way older generations were treating us. I recalled an incident involving an elder who seemed to be targeting the youths, and I wondered why he behaved that way. It dawned on me that perhaps his behavior was shaped by his own experiences when he was young.

This realization made me understand that the way we were treated in the past can influence how we treat others, especially those younger than us. If we were treated harshly or unfairly, we may unintentionally pass on that behavior to the next generation, creating a cycle of hurtful behavior that's challenging to break.

The incident with my student earlier and observing some of my peers made me realize that we're already adopting the same behaviors as the older generation by default. I strongly believe it's crucial for us to recognize this pattern and make a conscious effort to change our behavior.

We often say things like, 'You think you have it tough? Do you know how I was treated when I was your age? Do you know what we went through?' When these statements become our default response, we're already losing sight of the issue. Amidst our complaints, let's also examine how we're treating the younger generation below us.

It's time for us to break this cycle and create a more positive, supportive environment for everyone."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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THE CELEBRITY SHOW

TRAIN YOUR CHILD

ONE MAN'S FOOD IS ANOTHER MAN'S POISON

(A Script by Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritsemiegbegbemi)

(The Celebrity Show)

[The camera pans across the audience, showing their excited faces. The host, a charismatic emcee, welcomes everyone to the show.]

Host: "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to 'The Celebrity Show'! Tonight, we have a very special guest, a world-renowned celebrity who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. Please give a warm welcome to [Celebrity's Name]!"

[The audience erupts in applause as the celebrity walks onto the stage, waving to the crowd.]

Host: "Our guest tonight is not only a talented artist but also a philanthropist who has given back to his community in many ways. Let's get started with our first question from the audience."

[Audience Member 1 raises hand and is handed the microphone.]

Audience Member 1: "What inspires your music?"

Celebrity: "Life experiences, my surroundings, and my fans."

[Audience Member 2 raises hand and is handed the microphone.]

Audience Member 2: "How do you balance your career and personal life?"

Celebrity: "It's not easy, but I prioritize my time and make sure to take care of myself and my loved ones."

[You raise your hand, and the host hands you the microphone.]

You: "Hi, I have a few questions. Can you tell us about your love life?"

Celebrity: "Well, I've been blessed with two beautiful children from two amazing mothers."

You: "That's great. What about your background and family?"

Celebrity: "I come from a humble family. My parents worked hard to provide for me and my siblings."

You: "And what about your education?"

Celebrity: "Honestly, I dropped out of school at a young age to pursue my music career. But I went back to school recently and finished my education."

[The audience applauds, and the host smiles.]

Host: "Thank you for sharing that with us. Next question, please."

[The woman raises her hand, and the host hands her the microphone.]

Woman: "Sir, I have a question that might seem a bit uncomfortable, but I need to ask it... Sir, do you love your fans from your heart?"

Celebrity: "Of course, yes. I do everything I do for my fans."

Woman: "Sir, I have a personal request. My son is a drug addict and a womanizer. I know he looks up to you as a role model. Can you please give a shout-out to him and ask him to stop?"

Celebrity: "Definitely not. Every parent wants the best for their children. I will do as you've said, ma'am, right now."

[The celebrity takes the microphone and gives a heartfelt shout-out to the woman's son, urging him to desist from drugs and immoral acts.]

Woman: "But, sir, do you know you cannot give what you don't have?"

Celebrity: [confused] "I don't get you, ma'am."

Woman: "You become what you look at. My son looks at you and he is displaying all you do in your songs and videos. The best gift you can give to him and your fans whom you claim to love is not money, it's retirement from the kind of songs and information you pass to these young ones."

[The audience falls silent, with some looking shocked and others nodding in agreement.]

Woman: "We know you are generous, but do you know that you and your colleagues have destroyed more than you have helped with your songs, videos, and lifestyle? If you truly love your fans, retire!"

[The audience remains silent, with the only sound being the woman's powerful words echoing in the hall. The camera zooms out to show the celebrity looking taken aback, the host trying to intervene, and the audience frozen in shock.]

Host: "Well, it looks like we've reached the end of our show tonight. Thank you to our guest and our audience for joining us."

[The camera fades to black as the audience slowly begins to disperse, still looking stunned by the woman's words.]

THE END

LABARINA : KEEP TRYING

LABARINA : KEEP TRYING 

As I walked back through the community, I overheard a conversation between two young people. One of them, a teenager, was expressing his determination to not give up, to keep trying. The other person was encouraging him, urging him to persevere.

As I listened, I realized that the teenager's efforts were focused on winning over a girl. He was trying to convince her to be his girlfriend. It struck me as a burdensome pursuit, one that seemed to be driven by a desire for validation rather than genuine connection.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of concern, wondering about the values and priorities that were driving this young person's actions. 

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA : TEENAGERS IN MY COMMUNITY

LABARINA : TEENAGERS IN MY COMMUNITY 

As I took a stroll around the community this evening, I couldn't help but notice the same patterns of behavior that have become all too familiar. Groups of teenagers were gathered, discussing girls and indulging in idle chatter. I struck up a conversation with some of the young people, offering words of guidance and encouragement.

My message was simple: the community has already laid out a path for you, one that is fraught with distractions and pitfalls. It's a pattern that has been repeated for generations, and one that has yielded few success stories. In fact, it's a challenge to find even a single graduate from this community who has gone on to achieve their full potential.

The distractions are numerous, and they can be overwhelming. But I urged the young people I spoke with to recognize that they have a choice. They can choose to follow the pattern that has been laid out for them, or they can forge their own path.

It's a burden that weighs heavily on my heart, seeing the potential of these young people being wasted on frivolous pursuits. But I remain hopeful that some will hear my message and choose a different path.

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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Title: Uncovering the Truth Behind a Missed Wedding

Title: Uncovering the Truth Behind a Missed Wedding

A conversation with a friend who missed a mutual friend's wedding left me pondering the complexities of human relationships. Initially, he claimed he simply hadn't wanted to attend, but as we talked, he revealed a deeper connection with the bride.

He had been aware of their relationship from the start and knew intimate details about her feelings and plans. This level of involvement hinted at unrequited romantic feelings, and his absence from the wedding suggested jealousy or regret.

What struck me most was that his emotional unavailability and financial instability made him an unsuitable partner. His reluctance to attend the wedding seemed driven by unresolved emotions rather than genuine happiness for the couple.

This encounter raised questions about secret feelings, unrequited love, and navigating complex emotions. 

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA : INSTANTANEOUS GROWTH

LABARINA : INSTANTANEOUS GROWTH

"While watching Arsenal's match yesterday, I reflected on my previous thoughts about evaluating performance. In football, the end of the season provides a clear benchmark to measure a team's success. I wished for a similar framework to assess my personal accomplishments.

Yesterday's match made me realize that even a simple to-do list can serve as a daily benchmark. If Arsenal lost, it would be clear that they didn't meet their goals for that day. This made me wonder how I can measure my own daily success.

As a teacher, I've noticed that students often underestimate their knowledge until they're tested. Education's impact may not be immediately apparent, but it becomes clear when they're able to apply what they've learned.

This realization reminded me that the results of our efforts may not always be immediate. Unlike football matches, where results are instantaneous, personal growth and progress can take time.

Inspired by The Holy Ghost

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LABARINA : FUTURE LEADERS

LABARINA : FUTURE LEADERS

"As I walked past the town hall last night around 10pm, I overheard a disturbing conversation among some young boys. One of them was defending his desire to be with multiple women, saying:

Person A: "You get fine girlfriend, why you come dey look for another girl again? You be ashawo?"

Person B: "Wetin concern you? I no be ashawo. Wetin dey bring that kind talk come? I just like dey with another woman.".'

This conversation raised several red flags:

1. The boy's actions contradict his words, as he's essentially behaving like a harlot.

2. His mindset may lead him to establish a polygamous household in the future.

3. The fact that teenagers are casually discussing girlfriends suggests they may be engaging in premature relationships, possibly even intimate ones.

4. His attitude indicates a lack of commitment and a likelihood of dumping his current partner for someone else.

This conversation was a stark reminder that our future generation's values and morals are at risk. We need to pray to God to guide our youth and instill in them a sense of responsibility, respect, and commitment."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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The Heart of Church Media: Reflecting Christ Beyond the Screens

The Heart of Church Media: Reflecting Christ Beyond the Screens

As I reflect on church media, I'm reminded that it's not just about using gadgets, cameras, and software. It's about being a medium – a bridge – between Christ and the world. Every member of the church is part of the media team, as we're all called to be ambassadors of Christ.

However, I've noticed a disconnect between our online presence and our personal lives. Some members of the media team may have conflicting content on their personal devices, which can affect their work and witness for Christ. It's easy to present a polished image on social media, but what about our daily lives?

As Christians, we're called to integrity and authenticity. Our personal lives should reflect the same values and principles we promote through church media. We can't expect to effectively share the Gospel if our own lives don't demonstrate its transformative power.

I recall working with a media team member who smelled of smoke, indicating a lifestyle that didn't align with our Christian values. It was a sobering reminder that our personal lives can undermine our message.

So, what's the solution? It starts with recognizing that our personal lives are just as important as our online presence. We must strive to live authentically, allowing Christ to transform us from the inside out.

As church media practitioners, let's remember that our role is not just to produce content, but to be living testimonies of God's grace. By aligning our personal lives with our online presence, we can create a compelling and authentic witness that draws others to Christ.

Reflection Questions:

- How does my personal life reflect my Christian values?

- Am I presenting a consistent message online and offline?

- What areas of my life need transformation to better reflect Christ?

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA : LOVE PROMOTES ORDER

LABARINA : LOVE PROMOTES ORDER

"Today was a challenging day, and for the first time, I felt like quitting. Despite my willingness to face difficulties head-on, I was discouraged by the lack of effective leadership and poor management. It's clear that any institution will eventually fail if its leaders are not committed to excellence.

"I'm reminded that love is essential, but it's not enough on its own. The Bible teaches us that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline (2 Timothy 1:7). Even in relationships where love is present, such as within the Trinity, there are still principles and order to follow.

"As I reflect on today's events, I don't sense God telling me to quit. However, I do feel a strong desire to step away. I'm concerned that if the current leadership issues persist, the system will eventually collapse. I'll continue to seek God's guidance and wisdom in this situation."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA : PLANNING AND FORESIGHT

LABARINA : PLANNING AND FORESIGHT 

"I'm a proactive person who values planning and foresight. I've learned from Dr. Myles Munroe the importance of anticipating potential issues and warning others ahead of time. However, I've noticed that some individuals prefer to do things their own way, disregarding advice and warnings.

"My approach is to inform and alert others about potential problems, and if they choose to ignore my warnings, I won't be held responsible for the consequences. I prioritize my tasks and manage my time effectively, and I expect others to do the same.

"If someone chooses to procrastinate or disregard advice, they should not expect me to compensate for their lack of planning. I will not apologize for the consequences of their actions. Instead, I hope that they will learn from their mistakes and develop a greater appreciation for the importance of planning, foresight, and responsibility.

"As the saying goes, 'we learn from our mistakes.' I hope that others will take heed of my warnings and advice, and avoid learning through painful experiences."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA : VIOLATED

LABARINA : VIOLATED 

"The recent case of a man who raped a 13-year-old child is a disturbing reminder of the evil that exists in our society. What's even more shocking is that this man has two children of his own and a wife. It begs the question: what could he have possibly seen in that child?

We believe that there are forces beyond human understanding that drive people to commit such heinous crimes. However, this does not excuse the perpetrator's actions, and he must face the consequences of his crime.

But what about the child? The damage has been done, and the stigma will follow her for the rest of her life. She will be pointed at, ridiculed, and ostracized by society. The trauma will haunt her, and she may struggle with mental health issues, trust issues, and intimacy issues.

This experience can shape her worldview, leading her to develop a deep-seated hatred for men. She may vow never to have anything to do with men again, and who can blame her?

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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LABARINA : DO BEFORE YOU SAY

DO BEFORE YOU SAY

"Today, I witnessed a poignant moment that reinforced a valuable lesson. A mother was instructing her child to go inside, but her approach caught my attention. She was using force and verbal commands, which made me reflect on a fundamental truth:

As parents, we often expect our children to behave in a certain way, but do we model the behavior we desire? Do we demonstrate kindness, patience, and understanding, or do we exhibit the opposite?

It starts with us. Our children learn from what they see, and if we want them to develop positive habits and values, we must lead by example. We cannot expect them to do what we say if we don't do it ourselves.

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

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BLOODLIES

BLOODLIES

Mr. Alade stood towering over his kneeling son, Tomiwa, his massive frame radiating an aura of authority. His wife, Mama Tomiwa, rushed into the room, positioning herself between her husband and child.

"Beat me instead," she pleaded, her eyes locked on Mr. Alade's.

"Why would I?" Mr. Alade retorted, his deep voice firm but controlled. "Woman, would you please step aside? Let me do my job."

Mama Tomiwa hesitated for a moment before stepping aside. Mr. Alade took a few deliberate steps forward, his eyes fixed on Tomiwa.

"Do you want to beat me?" Mama Tomiwa asked, her voice laced with a hint of defiance. "A woman?"

Mr. Alade's expression remained unreadable. "Same trick you use all the time. I'm not going to beat a woman. I'm going to take her aside."

With a swift motion, Mr. Alade gently carried Mama Tomiwa away to a nearby chair. As he turned back to Tomiwa, he heard Mama Tomiwa's cries.

"My head o, my head o! He has killed me o!" she wailed.

Mr. Alade's expression softened slightly as he turned to his wife. "What's the matter, dear? But I..."

Mama Tomiwa stylishly signaled to Tomiwa to run away, and he took advantage of the distraction to make a quick escape.

After Tomiwa ran out, Mama Tomiwa pushed Mr. Alade away, laughing.

"I'm okay! I'm sorry for tricking you," she said, still chuckling.

Mr. Alade's face darkened. "You call pushing someone down from the cliff of a mountain a joke?"

Mama Tomiwa's smile faltered. "What do you mean by that? I will talk to him. He will stop."

Mr. Alade's skepticism was evident. "Same thing you've been saying for years now. Please, go get me my food."

Mama Tomiwa's face fell, but she quickly regained her composure. "Oko mi, I prepared your favorite."

Just then, a messenger burst into the room, panting.

"Please, sir! Tomiwa has been taken to the market square for stealing!" he exclaimed.

Mama Tomiwa's eyes widened in alarm. "What did he steal? Why is he being beaten?"

Mr. Alade's expression turned cold. "A thief is a thief."

With that, he turned and walked into the room, laying down to sleep. Mama Tomiwa followed the messenger, leaving Mr. Alade to his slumber.

Later, Mama Tomiwa returned with the messenger, her face etched with worry.

"Wake up! Tomiwa is in trouble!" she urged, shaking Mr. Alade awake.

Mr. Alade groggily opened his eyes. "What do I have to do with you, woman?"

Mama Tomiwa's desperation was palpable. "Tomiwa has been taken to the police station!"

Mr. Alade's response was indifferent. "Okay."

He turned to the other side of the bed, leaving Mama Tomiwa to her tears.

Days passed, and Mama Tomiwa's concerns about Tomiwa's behavior only deepened.

"If you don't go to school, I will call and report to your dad," she warned him.

But Tomiwa remained recalcitrant, refusing to attend school. His defiance eventually earned him a beating from his father.

As Tomiwa pleaded for mercy, Mama Tomiwa's words echoed in his mind: "I warned you! Didn't I?"

But it wasn't until Tomiwa got into a fight at church and was taken to the pastor that he began to see the error of his ways.

The pastor's words struck a chord in Tomiwa's heart: "You must change your ways, Tomiwa. You have the potential to be great."

Tomiwa nodded, a newfound determination burning within him.

As his birthday approached, Mr. Alade surprised Tomiwa with gifts – a Bible, a book, and a bicycle. They went shopping together, and Tomiwa's heart swelled with gratitude.

But it was what happened next that truly marked a turning point in Tomiwa's life. As they returned home, Tomiwa surprised his father by washing his car.

Mr. Alade's eyes widened in surprise. "Tomiwa, what has come over you?"

Tomiwa smiled, feeling a sense of pride and purpose. "The pastor's words, Dad. I want to change."

Mr. Alade's face softened, and he felt a warmth in his heart. "My son, I am proud of you."

As they shared a tender moment, Mama Tomiwa looked on, tears of joy streaming down her face. She had always known that Tomiwa had the potential to be great, and now, finally, he was beginning to realize it himself.

But just as things were starting to look up, a surprise twist threw everything off balance. As they were celebrating Tomiwa's birthday, a stranger appeared at the door.

"Who are you?" Mr. Alade asked, his instincts on high alert.

The stranger smiled. "I'm Tomiwa's real father."

Mama Tomiwa's eyes widened in shock. "What are you talking about?"

The stranger explained that he had been separated from Tomiwa's mother many years ago, and had only recently discovered that he had a son.

As the stranger's words hung in the air, everyone's eyes turned to Mama Tomiwa, who slowly lowered her gaze, her face flushing with guilt.

The stranger pulled out a sheaf of papers and a phone, displaying a chat log. "I've been trying to reach out to her, but she's been ignoring me. I have evidence here, and I believe she can't deny it."

Tomiwa's eyes widened as he stared at his mother, his mind reeling with questions. He had always felt that Mr. Alade didn't like him, but despite that, he had begun to feel a sense of belonging with the man.

Now, as he looked at the stranger, he saw a resemblance that made his heart skip a beat. It was as if he was staring at a male version of himself.

Tomiwa felt a wave of confusion wash over him. Should he stay with Mr. Alade, the man he had grown to love despite his initial reservations, or should he leave with this stranger, his biological father?

Mr. Alade's face fell, his eyes filled with hurt and betrayal as he looked at Mama Tomiwa. "Why didn't you tell me?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Mama Tomiwa's silence was deafening, and the room fell into an uncomfortable silence, each person lost in their own thoughts.

What would happen next? Would Tomiwa choose to stay with Mr. Alade or leave with his biological father? The decision would change his life forever.

Tomiwa's eyes widened as he stared at his mother, his mind reeling with questions.

Just as it seemed like the situation couldn't get any more intense, the door burst open and a chorus of voices shouted, "April Fool!"

Mr. Alade's face turned bright red as he realized he had been pranked. His workers, friends, and church members had all been in on the joke.

In shock, Mr. Alade pulled out a toy gun and pointed it at the crowd. "What is the meaning of this?" he thundered.

The crowd froze, terrified, until one of them stammered, "S-sir, it's just an April Fool's joke."

Mr. Alade's face slowly relaxed, and he lowered the gun. "You think this is funny?" he asked, trying to hide a smile.

The crowd nodded sheepishly, still chuckling.

Mr. Alade couldn't help but laugh too. "Well, I suppose that was a costly joke. Please, don't do that again."

As the tension dissipated, Mr. Alade turned to Tomiwa and hugged him tightly. "I love you, Tomiwa."

Tomiwa hugged him back, smiling. "I love you too, Dad."

Mama Tomiwa smiled, relieved that the joke had ended well. "I think we've all had enough excitement for one day."

The family shared a laugh, and the crowd began to disperse, still chuckling about the successful prank.

As they walked away, Mr. Alade turned to Mama Tomiwa and whispered, "You owe me one."

Mama Tomiwa grinned mischievously. "I'll make it up to you."

And with that, the family continued on, ready for their next adventure together.

FATHER IS DESTINY: AGAINST HER WILL

FATHER IS DESTINY : AGAINST HER WILL

Two hefty men were seen carrying a lady, walking some steps ahead of them was the lady's father. Not satisfied with the pace at which the guys were walking, he told them to hurry. The lady on the other hand was shouting on top of her voice "put me down".

After a while, they arrived at the compound of a man, Mr. Kingsley. At the compound, Mr. Kingsley was seen in the company of his wife and daughter (who was wearing the NYSC Khaki). At the sight of the men carrying the lady (who was later identified to be Monica), Mr. Kingsley's daughter couldn't help but shout, "drop her down" as she couldn't fathom how on earth a lady would be treated in such a manner.

On hearing her talk, the men eventually released the lady they were carrying, Monica agreed to what Mr. Kingsley's daughter had said, in her words: 'Aunty, help me tell them o’. Then facing the men, she said 'una get luck, if to say una no put me down, you for see wetin I for use una eyes see'.

Facing Mr. Kingsley and his daughter, Monica's father (Mr. Ibu) who instructed the hefty men in the first place at this point uttered a shocking statement. "Please help me beg my daughter to go back to school". Mr. Kingsley's daughter couldn't believe her ears as to what she had just heard. She couldn't imagine why someone at this age and time had to be begged to be literate.

Before they could reply, a woman who was later identified as Monica's mother rushed into the compound fidgeting, obviously worried sick about her daughter. By the way, who wouldn't? Considering the way her daughter was handled by two hefty men.

Sharon, (Mr. Kingsley's daughter) turned to Monica and asked 'Why don't you want to go to school?' Monica looked at Sharon and said 'Aunty, make I tell you the story'. She opened her mouth and narrated her ordeal with Sharon...

Sometime ago, a young, vibrant, and outspoken girl named Monica was seen in the company of her friends in the village. Monica who had just finished her secondary school was happy that she would be going to the University. She couldn't hide her excitement from her friends as she went about telling them about her big dreams as soon as she graduated. She even promised to buy her friends cars and other goodies.

The gist amongst these young friends became so interesting until she was told that her dad called for her. Monica bade her friends goodbye, and walking briskly, she hurried home with high spirits. On getting home, Monica was shocked to see her father (Mr. Ibu) and her mum in the sitting room looking unusually quiet and unhappy.

Being the introvert that she was, she paused a bit to know who she would sit close to, then she sat close to her mum. The room went silent for what looked like forever. Mr. Ibu broke the silence by saying, he was not ready to further sponsor Monica's education.

In his words, he couldn't sponsor a female child who would later end up spending her salary on her husband. So, he preferred to invest more in a son who would inherit his name and property even after he was long gone. He went further to reiterate what happened to his friend who trained his daughter to school but was left alone to himself as soon as the daughter got married and so he decided to learn from his friend, choosing not to walk along the same path.

Her father then advised her to get married. He said, ‘thank God you're beautiful, you'll get a rich husband. So daughter, you know I've laboured over you and it's time for me to reap where I have sowed, so bring a man home, a rich in-law that would take care of me especially in this old age as I do not have the strength to run around as in the days of my youth’.

On hearing this, Monica couldn't believe her ears, it was as though her whole world was crumbling right before her very eyes, her expectations and hopes were dashed. Sitting close to her mum, she looked up to her mum with the hope to find refuge and solace in the comforting words of her mother.

A ray of hope brightened her countenance when her mother said she was not in support of her father's decision. Monica smiled, unknown to her that she was in for another unpleasant surprise which was rather unfortunate. Her mum then continued by saying, it wasn't as though she didn't support her father's decision for her to stop schooling, but rather, she was not in support of the reason her father gave.

According to her, regardless of gender, every child deserves equal treatment. Monica felt her world crumbling around her. Her expectations and hopes were dashed. She looked to her mother for comfort, but found none.

After narrating her story, Monica paused, collecting her thoughts. Sharon, the copper's daughter, asked, "When did this happen?"

Monica replied, "Sometime last year."

Sharon's expression turned sympathetic. "It's not too late, Monica. You can still go to school."

But Monica insisted, "There's a problem."

Sharon's curiosity was piqued. "What happened?"

Monica took a deep breath before continuing her story. "After my parents refused to support my education, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I ran away from home, determined to find a way to fund my education. I was desperate and naive."

Monica's voice cracked as she spoke. "I met a guy who promised to help me. He offered me a place to stay, and I trusted him. But one night, he took advantage of me."

Sharon's eyes widened in shock. "I'm so sorry, Monica. That's horrific."

Monica's eyes welled up with tears. "It's not just that. I'm... I'm pregnant."

The room fell silent, with all eyes on Monica. Mr. Kingsley's face turned pale, while his wife looked stunned.

Sharon spoke up, trying to offer comfort. "It is well Monica, I think there's still hope.

But Mr. Kingsley's response shocked everyone. "There's no problem. It's just two months. You can... you can abort the pregnancy."

The room erupted into a mixture of shock and outrage. Monica's eyes widened in horror, while Sharon and her mother looked at Mr. Kingsley in disgust.

"How could you suggest such a thing?" Sharon's mother asked, her voice trembling with anger.

The scene ended with Monica feeling more lost and alone than ever, unsure of what the future held for her.

FATHER IS DESTINY : THE SHERIFF

Here is the full story with the edited section:

FATHER IS DESTINY : THE SHERIFF 

Sheriff David, renowned for his compassionate patriotism, had dedicated his life to saving the lives of young men and women through his words and actions. Beyond rescuing them, he mentored them, engaging in one-on-one conversations and hosting gatherings through his foundation. Occasionally, he invited motivational speakers and preachers to inspire them.

One day, during a counseling session with arrested youths, Sheriff David was taken aback by the next individual who walked in. It was Solomon, his son, accompanied by his mother, Jamie.

Jamie explained, "We came to see you since you weren't available at home."

Sheriff David, shocked and pained, struggled to find words. He summoned the courage to ask, "What crime has Solomon committed?"

Jamie revealed, "Solomon robbed a store."

Sheriff David, dumbfounded, asked, "Why would you do that, Solomon? I provide everything you need."

Jamie added, "You've failed to provide yourself, David. Solomon committed the crime to get arrested and have an opportunity to speak with you. Unfortunately, things escalated; he shot a policeman with your gun and left him dead."

Sheriff David was reeling from the news. "He's only 17..." he trailed off.

Jamie corrected him, her voice laced with a mix of sadness and frustration. "Solomon was 18 two weeks ago, David. You even skipped his birthday. We told you, you apologized, but you forgot."

Sheriff David's eyes widened in shock, realizing his mistake. Jamie's words struck a chord: "You served society well, but you failed your home."

What next?

FATHER IS DESTINY: Father's Shadow

FATHER IS DESTINY 

Father's Shadow

A police station. A young man is dragged out of a cell by a policeman.

Policeman: Stand here! Do you know that man?

(The policeman points to an aged man with grey hair standing outside the police counter.)

Young Man: (looking down) Yes, he's my father.

Aged Man: Albert! Why?! Do you want to kill your wife?

A voice from behind: Of course, yes, just like you killed yours.

The aged man recognizes the voice, turns around, and sees a lady.

Policewoman: Shut up, you lady, and get inside there!

(The policewoman drags the lady inside the counter.)

Aged Man: What has she done?

Lady: (from inside) What your wife refused to do when you were beating her every day.

Policewoman: Do you know this woman?

Aged Man: Yes, she's my daughter.

Lady: (bitterly) Was my daughter. You ceased to be my father the day you killed my mother!

Aged Man: But you know it was a mistake.

Lady: Same mistake your son is about to make. Foolish man!

The policemen and policewomen present reprimand her.

Policewoman: How dare you talk to your father like that?

Lady: (in tears) I will talk to him the way I want to because he deserves it and even more! We watched this man beat my mother every day, we pleaded with him, but he refused till she met her end. I hate you from the bottom of my heart!

Aged Man: (heartbroken, in tears) I didn't kill your mum, my only wife.

Lady: Only wife indeed. What's the difference? You stopped your harassment when it was too late. Although a year after, but the doctor said she died as a result of your beatings.

Aged Man: But I said I was sorry and remained unmarried in honor of her.

Lady: That's medicine after death. Your son watched you beat her, and I remember countless times when you told him not to tolerate any woman's excesses. He heeded your advice and has also taken after you.

Policewoman: So, that's why you almost killed your husband. That's if he doesn't die before getting to the hospital. Same I heard you did to the first one before he ran away.

Aged Man: (overwhelmed with pity and agony) The police rush to help him.

Lady: (hissing, in tears) Please take me out of here to my cell, or should I go myself?

To be continued...

Title: "The Wrapper Conundrum: Why Men Stray in Marriage"

Title: "The Wrapper Conundrum: Why Men Stray in Marriage"

"Hey everyone, welcome back to my channel/content! Today, I want to share with you a fascinating discussion we had in Sunday school. It was about the dynamics of marriage and relationships, and I must say, it was really eye-opening.

We had two individuals with differing opinions on why some men tend to stray from their marriages. One gentleman suggested that some women tend to let themselves go after getting married. He argued that these women often compare unfavorably to other women outside their marriages who take care of themselves and look attractive.

Specifically, he mentioned that some women have a habit of wearing 'rapper' (a type of wrapper or cloth) all the time, even at home. He felt that this can get tiresome for men, leading them to seek attention elsewhere.

On the other hand, a married woman in our group offered a different perspective. She pointed out that married women often have a multitude of responsibilities, from taking care of children to managing the household and working outside the home. She argued that it's unfair to expect women to maintain the same level of physical attractiveness after marriage, given the demands and pressures they face.

As the teacher facilitating the discussion, I applauded both perspectives, acknowledging that there's some truth to both sides. While it's true that some women may let themselves go after marriage, it's also true that married women face unique challenges that can make it difficult to prioritize self-care and physical appearance.

Ultimately, I believe that both perspectives complement each other. Husbands need to understand and appreciate the hard work their wives put into managing the household and caring for their families. At the same time, wives need to feel supported and encouraged to take care of themselves, both physically and emotionally.

What do you think about this topic? Have you experienced similar challenges in your own relationships or marriages? 

Share your thoughts and let's continue the conversation!"

LABARINA - A CERTAIN PREACHER

LABARINA - A CERTAIN PREACHER

"A preacher shared a cautionary tale about another preacher who, during his school days, prayed by a river and anointed the water with oil, declaring a separation between himself and the devil. Unbeknownst to him, the devil retaliated by sending a beautiful but HIV-positive woman to work as his secretary. Eventually, she infected the preacher, who gradually succumbed to the disease.

The moral of the story is that, as 2 Corinthians 2:11 says, 'We should not be ignorant of the devil's schemes.' We must recognize that our struggles are not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:12). We need the Holy Spirit's guidance and protection in all aspects of our lives.

The story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of being aware of the devil's schemes and seeking God's protection and guidance in all aspects of life. It highlights the need for discernment, spiritual warfare, and caution against temptations, emphasizing the importance of relying on God's power and wisdom to navigate life's challenges.

Inspired by The Holy Ghost

🖊️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritsemiegbegbemi

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LABARINA- FEARFUL OF CAREFUL?

LABARINA- FEARFUL OF CAREFUL?

"The difference between being fearful and being careful is important. Some people might say, 'I'm being very careful,' but in reality, they're fearful. They might be overly skeptical, thinking, 'If we start something new, like going online, it could backfire and hurt what we're doing.' On the other hand, we need to have the faith to face the world. What I'm saying is that we need to distinguish between being careful and being fearful, and understand the difference between the two."

"We need to recognize when fear is holding us back and learn to be careful without being controlled by fear. Being careful is about being prudent, thoughtful, and prepared, whereas being fearful is about letting anxiety and doubt dictate our decisions. By understanding this difference, we can learn to navigate challenges with confidence and wisdom, rather than letting fear hold us back."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

🖋️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritsemiegbegbemi

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LABARINA - SELLING OR EXPLORING?

LABARINA - SELLING OR EXPLORING?

"Today, I witnessed something that left me surprised and concerned. I saw a group of youths from my community gathering and slicing old streetlight poles that had been replaced. They planned to sell these poles, and it was striking to see so many of them gathered together for this purpose.

I couldn't help but wonder why these young people were so focused on selling rather than exploring more innovative and meaningful opportunities. It's disheartening to see them settling for a life of scavenging and selling, rather than striving for something more substantial and impactful.

I hope that in the future, we can encourage and empower these youths to pursue more sustainable and fulfilling endeavors."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

🖋️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritsemiegbegbemi

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LABARINA :The Five Children: A Tale of Ignorance and Superstition

LABARINA

The Five Children: A Tale of Ignorance and Superstition

In my community, a shocking event occurred when a woman gave birth to five children in the hospital far away from the community. However, what happened next was even more astonishing. The chief priest, in our community, declared that the land needed to be cleansed.

I was perplexed by this announcement, as I didn't understand the reasoning behind it. Giving birth to multiple children is seen to everyone as a sign of good fortune, not a cause for cleansing. It seemed to me that the chief priest's decision was rooted in ignorance and superstition.

This incident reminded me of the story of Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary who worked in Calabar, Nigeria, in the late 19th century. During her time, the local culture believed that twins were a curse, and as a result, they were often abandoned or killed. Mary Slessor fought tirelessly against this practice, advocating for the rights and dignity of these children. Her efforts eventually led to a change in the cultural narrative, and twins were no longer seen as a curse.

Similarly, I believe that our community needs to re-examine its traditions and superstitions. The idea that a woman giving birth to five children requires a cleansing ritual is not only unnecessary but also harmful. It's crucial that we educate ourselves and others to break free from the chains of ignorance and superstition.

It was further alleged that he was using the cleansing ritual as a way to extort funds from the community.

I hope that our community can learn from the example set by Mary Slessor and work towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

Story narrated 🖋️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa

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The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Drinking: A Cautionary Tale

The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Drinking: A Cautionary Tale

As we begin a new year, many of us reflect on our habits and resolve to make positive changes. Recently, I was reminded of the importance of being mindful of our habits when I heard a tragic story about a young man in my community.

The young man, who had been diagnosed with epilepsy, had attended a party on New Year's Day and got drunk. He was left alone and, two days later, he went else to repeat the same exercise and this time met his end. He fell headlong on the concrete ground, and this resulted in his untimely death. While the cause of his death is still debated, with some attributing it to his epilepsy and others to his excessive drinking, one thing is clear: excessive drinking can have devastating consequences.

What's striking about this story is that one of the people arguing that epilepsy was the cause is also a heavy drinker of Ogogoro, a local liquor. This raises questions about the tendency to justify or downplay our own unhealthy habits, even when faced with the tragic consequences of those habits in others.

The Dangers of Excessive Drinking

Excessive drinking can lead to serious health problems, including:

- Liver damage

- Accidents and injuries

- Impaired judgment and decision-making

- Addiction

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), excessive drinking is responsible for approximately 3 million deaths worldwide each year.

The Impact of Unhealthy Habits

Unhealthy habits, including excessive drinking, can have far-reaching consequences that affect not only our physical and mental health but also our relationships, work, and overall well-being.

For example, excessive drinking can lead to:

- Strained relationships with family and friends

- Poor job performance and decreased productivity

- Increased risk of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety

Breaking the Cycle

So, how can we break the cycle of unhealthy habits and adopt healthier ones?

Here are some tips:

1. *Practice self-reflection*: Take time to reflect on your habits and identify areas for improvement.

2. Seek support: Share your struggles with a trusted friend, Pastor or family member and ask for their support.

3. Start small: Begin with small, achievable changes, such as reducing your drinking or exercising more regularly.

4. *Find healthy alternatives*: Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as reading, meditation, or spending time in nature

5. Ask God for help.

Conclusion

The tragic story of the young man in my community serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of excessive drinking and the importance of being mindful of our habits. By practicing self-reflection, seeking support, starting small, and finding healthy alternatives, we can break the cycle of unhealthy habits and adopt healthier ones.

Let's take a moment to reflect on our own habits and make positive changes to prioritize our health and well-being. Remember, it's never too late to make a change and start living a healthier, more balanced life.

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

Story 🖊️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritsemiegbegbemi

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LABARINA : PLAN! PLAN!! PLAN!!!

LABARINA : PLAN! PLAN!! PLAN!!!

"A life without a plan is like a body with its parts out of place - the eyes where the nose should be, the hands where the legs should be. It's chaotic and unfulfilling.

The Bible says in Habakkuk 2:1-2, 'I will stand upon my watch and wait to see what He will say to me... Write the vision; make it plain.'

This emphasizes the importance of planning and goal-setting. We must pray and plan, not just go through life without direction.

Don't let your life be like a puzzle with missing pieces. Take control, plan, and set goals. Write down your vision and make it plain. Then, you'll be on your way to achieving your aspirations and living a purposeful life."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

🖋️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritsemiegbegbemi

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LABARINA - IF YOU HAVE DONE WELL

LABARINA - IF YOU HAVE DONE WELL

"As the year ends, leaders may expect gifts or appreciation from followers. However, leaders should reflect on their performance before expecting recognition.

Followers should also appreciate leaders who serve them faithfully (Galatians 6:6). The Bible encourages sharing good things with those who instruct and lead us.

Leaders, remember that recognition follows serving with integrity. As Genesis 4:7 says, 'If you do well, will you not be accepted?' Serve with excellence, and appreciation will follow naturally.

Let's prioritize genuine, voluntary appreciation and recognition, rather than obligatory or manipulative gestures."

Inspired by The Holy Spirit 

🖋️ Ojo Sunday Ikponmwonsa Oritaemiegbegbemi

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