Ebenezer O. Akinrinade

13/02/2024

29/12/2023

If the person you are sharing your burdens with isn't making the weight lighter then you've got a bigger problem to deal with.

A problem shared is not a problem solved. It is only a problem shared with the right person(s) that get solved.

Be wise!

22/03/2023

|| NIGERIA: Tribalism, The New Colonialism ||

Tribalism, the curse that plagues us.
Nigeria, a nation with rage and grudge.
From North to South, East to West,
Tribal bigotry, a deep-seated crest.

Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and all,
Propelled by greed to take it all
Not minding what it would cost;
Be it death, destruction or war.

The wound of civil war, fresh and raw,
The scars of colonialism, a gaping maw.
Events of decades gone, still divides us
Our unity is sham, our love is pretentious.

This nation is a game played by powerful few,
The masses are the puzzles, they are screwed.
The new enemies are united to divide and rule,
With colonialism that promises nothing but ruin.

The enemy is no longer foreign
But sadly, not many can discern it.
The soul of this nation bleeds,
Bitterness, the fruits of her tree.

Is there a future for this land?
Shall we ever be able to unite?
Of this war and tribalistic blight,
Can you see an end in sight?

When shall we break this chains of hate,
To build a nation, prosperous and safe?
Arise! O compatriots and answer the call,
Bind up your broken pieces, stand up tall.

Authored by:
Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade
[email protected]

Copyrights © March 22nd, 2023

24/01/2023

= Poem: "FORGET ABOUT TOMORROW" =

There is something in your heart to say
But you often think it can wait.
Moments have turned into days
And days have turned to decades
Yet you keep wishing for a perfect day
To say all you've ever wanted to say.

Let me break your heart, my friend
No matter how long you delay
You may never see a perfect day.
This is not a prayer, it is not a curse.
That which you seek is already given.
The very day you longed for, is today.

Believe it when I say,
Today is your perfect day.
A perfect moment in time
To begin telling your story.
No greater tragedy in your way
Than you choosing to procrastinate.

Tell your story
Do not hold it in.
Be not ashamed
Your story is worth sharing.
Your mistakes of yesterdays
Are tomorrow's gain.

Speak your truth, don't shut up.
Let the words flow like waters from the brook.
Never allow the fear of trolls hold you captive.
Silence can be worse than life sentence.
Words unspoken, can bring you torment.
Speak your mind, set yourself free.

Share that others may find cure.
Share that you may find joy.
It is in the telling of your story
And the lessons in your journey
That many with hearts broken and heavy
Shall find strength, hope and healing.

Worry not about what people will say
To be vulnerable, is courage.
Be brave, there is no time to waste.
Your story can no longer wait.
Tell it anyway, anyhow, starting today
This moment is golden, tomorrow is too late.

Written by:
Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade
January 19th, 2023

© Copyright

19/01/2023

I was in a session with a mentor some days ago, and he shared a snippet of his personal life story with me and I could not but wonder at the level of transformation now evident in his life.

From our conversation, I understood very clearly the core of the lesson he was trying to teach, which is: "life is a journey and with every step we take we are consciously or unconsciously becoming someone or something, either for the good or otherwise."

While I was taking a break to reflect on everything he talked about, this poem titled "I AM BECOMING" began to take form in my mind and here below is the finished product. I hope it inspires someone out there.

|| Poem: I AM BECOMING ||

The best of me, is still in the making
As new dawn is breaking, I am becoming
Through the darkness, my heart awaking
The journey already begun, through a road unsure
But onward I match on, towards a set future.

I am becoming, a work in progress
No more 'had I known', no more regrets
Each day a canvas, each breath a brush
Now I paint my story, with colors bright
Each moment a stroke, each day a light.

I am becoming, a force to be reckoned
Heart align, first is the goal, not second
Eyes on the lane, the gold is the aim.
I stand tall and face the world with pride
I hold unto nothing, only faith is my guide.

I am becoming, a better version of me
With every leap forward, my spirit set free
I embrace the new me, I welcome the unknown
There is no returning, that I already know.

This is my journey, a road to my truest self
With each deliberate step, a new chapter to delve
I shall no longer be defined by my past
For I am becoming, and that is my cast.

Article & Poem Written by:
Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade
[email protected]
January 19th, 2023

© Copyright

16/01/2023

= WHO IS YOUR DADDY? =

While in a conversation with a friend yesterday, he told me about a certain father and his oldest son in the neighborhood.

Going by his account, the man hasn't always been an available father due to the nature of his job as a hailing cab driver who sometimes travel interstate. As it's common in most cases, the mother couldn't keep the children under control whenever their father goes out of town.

One fateful day, the father came home unexpectedly and he became furious to learn that the son now passes the night with a group of friends suspected to be involved in some shady online business. He got so furious to the extent the atmosphere became hot and tensed. Even other tenants could feel the heat of his anger. He spat fire and threatened to deal decisively with the son while the mother begs on her son's behalf.

The father picked his phone, dialed the son's number and told him to come home immediately. After a couple of hours, the son returned. Everybody was expecting to see some showdown (abi WWE Smackdown 😅). But to their shock, the boy came home with bags of goodies and a bottle of an alcoholic beverage which happens to be his father's favourite. And woolah!, that was how the case closed.

The next thing the father said was, "Ahh, you really got me this time. In fact, I don't even know what to say again."
As of now, the boy and his gangs lodges in one luxury guest house to another, week after week.

On my way home, I reflected on the conversations I had with my dad earlier this year when he visited. He has always encouraged us to live within the means of whatever GOD makes available to us and not to covet whatever wealth we cannot defend. My dad is not a perfect man but I am proud of him for instilling values which in many ways has kept myself and my siblings on the right path.

THANK YOU, DAD. I LOVE YOU!

—
Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade
January 16th, 2023
© Copyright

13/01/2023

= DON'T ENVY MY SMILES =

There is a quote that says, "If you don't know the story, don't envy the glory."
Perhaps, you're wondering, how exactly does that relate to this picture? Calm down, let me explain.

If you take a moment to look through all the posts flooding your timeline, it should interest you to know that almost 95—98% of the photos you'll find suggest that happiness is everywhere. But in reality, some of the people whose smiles, beautiful outfits and supposed good life you are envying, are going through hell quietly without letting anyone in on their personal struggles.

Somehow, we have all mastered the art of hiding our pains behind a nicely done make-up and fake smiles just to attract the likes and comments here on social media. We pretend to be having a perfect life all through the day but by night, the pillows are soaked with tears and bloodied sweat.

Before you envy another man's happiness (success or even wealth), be sure you know them thoroughly. And if you are the type that is always wishing and praying to GOD make your life look like that of someone you barely know, ask yourself if you can withstand the same trials they are dealing with.

While I am not against sharing photos of happy moments and success stories, I hope we'll have the courage to be our truest self; a self that is also unashamed to reveal her struggles because of the fear of being judged.
May we encounter more joy and happiness with fewer troubles and trials in our journey!

Now you are permitted to ADMIRE (not envy) my smiles. 🥰😄

|| Poem: "I SMILE BECAUSE" ||

I smile
Not because I am the happiest man alive.
I smile
Though deep inside, it's a struggle, it's a fight.
I smile
Having the faith that tomorrow will be alright.
I smile
For the sake of that child who calls me Dad.

—
Article & Poem Written by:
Ebenezer O. Akinrinade
[email protected]

© Copyright, January 13th, 2023

10/01/2023

In 2019, I wrote this poem titled "AM I FORGOTTEN?". It was during one of the toughest seasons of my life and all I needed was an answer to a question that bothers my heart.

Earlier today, someone on my friends list liked the post and instantly I knew this wasn't in any way a coincidence, especially because this very question popped up in my head very recently due to a certain event.

One thing is clear for sure, GOD never forgets or abandon his own. His timing may not just make sense to us because we keep thinking that time is running out.

Maybe you have been in my shoes lately or probably going through something a lot more tougher than anyone except you can relate with. It's OKAY. Everything will make sense when the time is right.

As you read this poetic piece (slightly edited), I hope and pray that you find answers to every question that troubles your heart.

*** *** *** ***

= AM I FORGOTTEN? =

I have heard with my ears
And witnessed with my eyes
The fulfilment of the verse
That "Your Word never lies."

But for too long, I fasted and prayed
Holding on to the promises you made
Yet, all I see is pain and delays;
It wearies my bone and weakens my faith.

Abba, what's up with my case?
How much longer must I wait?
When will things fall into place?
Or am I gonna wait on you in vain?

Am I on trial?
Are you testing my faith?
Will you wait till I fall and fail?
If my sin is what has kept you at bay
Tell me, so I can amend my ways.

Please Abba, do not forget me.
Who am I without you — nothing!
All I have is tied to your promise.
It is the reason I live, my everything.

Am I forgotten?
Say something.
Speak, I am listening.

Written by:
~ Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade
[Originally Written on November 1st, 2019]
[email protected]

© Copyright 2019

07/01/2023

We can never tell who is a humble man or woman until such a person has been given access to power.

It would interest you to know that the same set of people who salutes you every now and then, calling you "boss boss" are still doing so because of the benefits they stand to gain in the moment.

The minute they breakthrough, you become an instant 'none entity' in their eyes. They're the kind of people who after a while will consider you as a low life and unfit for their high class lifestyle.

Maybe you are that kind of person I am talking about. Do you remember how you secretly feel jealous of your friend's success, thinking within yourself that when your own turn comes you will 'show dem shege?'

Are you even aware if the reason why your miracles and breakthroughs are being delayed is because GOD is not yet convinced of your ability to diligently put influence and power to good use? Think about it!

Ask yourself these honest questions:
* That car I've been praying for, why do I really need it? Is it to join the 'pepper dem geng' or to make my life more better and improve your productivity?

* That marriage you're desperately hoping for, is it because you love the idea of raising a godly family or you just need a ring on your finger to show off?

* What about your intentions for japa? Starting a business? Getting a degree? Having a baby? And the list is endless. Check your intentions before the arrival of what you breakthrough.

Power is like a strong drink, the wise takes pleasure is taking only a sip as a symbol to mark a special event, but a drunkard takes pleasure in drinking himself to stupor at any slight opportunity thereby making a fool of himself before those who should honor him.

Be wise.

Happy New Year to you my beautiful friend. I value you.

—
Written by:
Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade

January 7th, 2023

05/12/2022

I don't know if eventually you will find light at the end of your tunnel. I honestly do not know. The only one thing I know for sure is that you'll be better off being hopeful and patient to find out what lies at the end of your tunnel rather than you giving up too early on the basis of assumption that there exist no light at all.

02/12/2022

Snippets from my New Podcast titled, "WHO GOD EEP?"

Available on all major podcast streaming platforms including Audiomack.

Search for Ebenezer Akinrinade Podcast.

SUBSCRIBE, LISTEN and GIVE FEEDBACK!

30/11/2022

— "WHO GOD EEP?" by Ebenezer Akinrinade

Now available on all major podcast streaming platforms.

28/11/2022

Two Most Dangerous Things That Can Happen to Someone Going Through Depression:

1. Having no one to talk to.

2. Talking to the wrong people.

08/11/2022

Without a clear destination in mind, leadership becomes a meaningless stroll in the park.

—

16/07/2022

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We have FREE SCHOLARSHIPS available for selected number of selected number of persons.

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See flyers for more details.

13/07/2022

More often than not, when the question "Who do you think you are?" is been asked it's usually in a confrontational manner with the intent of ridiculing the person from whom the question is directed.

In this instance, however, my aim is not to confront you or start a fight. Rather, I want to help you reflect and probe your inner self much deeper than you would normally do.

At times, there seem to be no correlation whatsoever (1) between who we are, (2) who we think we are, and (3) who people say/think we are.

Situations like this further creates inner conflict and may result in some form of distorted self perception.

In our pursuit of life's purpose, we must constantly inquire within ourselves and from those around us to be sure that who we are, who we think we are, and the perspective of other people about us is unified.

Are you living through each day pretending to be someone else, in order to attract favors or been perceived as a good person by certain individuals? Or are you living out your best life in the best way you know how to without compromise?

Are you overbloated with ego and can't even come to term with your weaknesses? Are you pursuing the life of your dreams or simply just living for survival? Are you tuned to the frequency of your true identity or you've given over your life's meaning into the hands of others to define?

So again, I ask, "Who are you?" and "Who do you think you are?"

—
Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade

29/06/2022

A posthumous birthday to the one we love but cannot no longer see.

Dear 'Samora'

No tears.
No pains.
A remembrance of your golden smiles and kind heart is more than a enough reason for us to be happy and celebrate you today.

We rejoice in hope that we'll meet again.

Cheers!

19/06/2022

To every boy child, brothers, nephew, cousins, uncles, fathers and grandpas, may our joy be full to overflowing and our lives be lived meaningfully in health and wealth in the company of those we love.

Happy Father's Day!

08/06/2022

Forget about celebrity status and brand marketing. The power to influence has already been wielded into each and everyone of us as humans.

Funny enough, a lot of us are not even consciously aware of who we are, what we have and how to leverage that which we already possess.

We are busy waiting for some big platforms, huge some of money, leadership title or authority figure to annoint us before we start believing in our ability to cause change.

The struggle for some is with the size of their circle of influence. In their opinion, only those who are doing big things, own big brands or occupy big positions are qualified to be called influencers. Wrong!

Being an influencer is not just about big numbers but more about big impact whether it's in the life of one person or a million people. As long as your opinion, idea, lifestyle, products and services can cause another person to change their worldview, decisions, beliefs, and whatever, you automatically earn the bragging rights to call yourself an influencer.

Make your life count for something. Give someone a reason to look back, five years from now and be able to say that your influence on them truly count for something.

Don't allow the smallness of your circle drown your voice. Don't despise your supposedly minute impact just because someone else is doing better or on a bigger scale.

Keep doing what you know how to do in your small space while you keep growth in the right perspective.

— Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade

05/06/2022

It is true that the family is the smallest unit of society and also true that the society is a reflection of the collective units of all families put together.

So let's face it.

I know we are often very quick to talk about the injustices in the society, the inequalities, the prejudices, the stigmatisation, religious intolerance and all what not. We even act as if those we have allowed at the elms of affairs are nothing but aliens from jupiter whenever it's time for the blame game. We are always dropping the faults at the doorstep of "the other people" just so that we can appear as saints rather than a "part of them."

The envy, hatred, mistrust among all other vices we see around us are products of the family system. Many of us cannot even harness our capacity to love genuinely because we were raised to not trust anybody.

Many children grew up as broken adults not knowing what to expect in a dating / marriage relationship because nobody ever modelled to them what love should be.

How can we expect to love our neighbours when sadly we don't know how to love ourselves. The family system is supposed to provide us with everything both moral, emotional, physical and spiritual support. A healthy family is one whose foundation is built on true love and an all-encompassing support system. Unless we rebuild that system structure, nothing will ever change for the better.

We must stop the pretense already and the idea of tolerating one another without genuinely loving one another. How long are going to keep living together as familiar strangers when it really wouldn't cost us nothing to live in love and oneness?

Your family is not just those with whom you are connected to by blood. That neighbour, that colleague, that roadside trader, that gateman, that cart pusher, and every ordinary people that destiny has placed around you are your family.

Can you see the bigger picture?

~ Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade

03/06/2022

If you decide to throw back every single punch, insults and trash that people hurl at you, you will spend the rest of your entire life fighting meaningless battles without truly living a life worth remembering.

Even if you were an army general, you should know when to call for restraint and be careful not to allow your strength, might, superiority or perceived advantage over any individual lure you to attack for the sake of proving a point.

People will push you to the wall, throw trash at you and say all manner of things just to spite you. They may even make deliberate efforts to frustrate you in expectation that you will say or commit a regrettable action which they can later use as a case against you.

Learn to be discerning. Choose which battle is worth fighting and which is bound to be a waste of time.

You can be wise and yet act like a fool in the interest of your own peace of mind. Face front, let your life's purpose be your priority.

The best way to win some battles is to avoid them at all cost.

— Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade

02/06/2022

For some of us, a lot of the products and services that are making waves in the world today once dropped in our mind as an idea several years ago.

Although we grabbed it with so much excitement, and maybe you even had sleepless nights trying to imagine what life would be after the idea finally 'blow'.

The sad story is that, the excitement never lasted, and the dream we caught with so much joy died along the way, why?

Because the very people we were looking up to, to approve of our dreams never gave us the go ahead we anticipated for. They didn't see anything good about the dreams we had neither did they believe that we had the capacity to pursue to reality those big dreams.

We simply gave up because someone else did not give us approval. Oh, what a waste!

Maybe you are at that same point yet again, and nobody around you seem to believe in what you strongly hold dear to your heart. I tell you, without mincing words, YOU ONLY NEED YOUR OWN APPROVAL.

Chase after your dream whether or not people believe in you. By the time you achieve something worthwhile, those who never supported you will be the one singing your praise.

You are more than enough, my dear friend.

— Ebenezer OlaSunkanmi Akinrinade

01/06/2022

Look all around you and you won't have to look too far to see how much we have allowed greed to fester in our today's society.

From the top to bottom, the story is the same. The nation is governed by those who without care are looting the wealth that ought to be preserved for the next generation.

We have parents who shamelessly squander their wealth on needless competitions just to impress their counterparts.

The youths driven by hopelessness and the uncertainty of their tomorrow have somewhat taken pride in fraudulent activities as a normal way of life.

Where do we go from here? How long shall we allow greed to destroy our humanity and existence?

—

30/05/2022

People do desperate things when they are hungry. They become so desperate to the extent that they are willing to trade off just about anything and everything for sake of temporary comfort — food or money.

Maybe you are at the brink of throwing away a lifetime of dignity, respect and honour for a brief moment of pleasure, profit or benefit. I urge you not to do it.

You are better off with hunger and your dignity still intact than trading your future for loaves of bread.

Don't let your appetite ruin you!

25/05/2022

Whatever occupies your imagination automatically takes control of your life and the outcomes you get.

Take out time to journal your thoughts down and you'll see how your present realities have resulted from the pattern of thoughts you've allowed over the years.

What has been your predominant thought today?