MOTHER ABANDONED HER BABY BY THE RIVERBANK

EPISODE 7

Life in Lagos should have felt like a new beginning for Oma. The bustling city lights, the well-furnished apartment Michael provided, and the comfort of knowing she was loved should have filled the void in her heart.

But nothing seemed to touch the emptiness that had settled in her soul. Michael was a good man—attentive, supportive, and kind. He made sure she lacked nothing.

They went on outings, visited parks, ate at expensive restaurants. From the outside, theirs was a beautiful love story.

But for Oma, it was like living inside a glass house. Everything looked perfect, yet one emotional crack threatened to shatter it all. The memory of her baby girl haunted her, silently threading itself through every moment of her new life.

When Michael noticed it, he brought it up one evening after dinner. "Oma, why don’t you go back to school? You’ve always wanted to study. Maybe that will help you loosen up.

She stared at him with wide eyes, unsure how to respond. She obtained a form and began university. Each morning, she left home dressed in modest clothes, blending into a sea of youthful students. She took the bus, attended lectures, read until late into the night. She studied sociology.

At school, her brilliance began to shine. Her lecturers praised her essays. She found new confidence in discussions, and some of her course mates even looked up to her like a big sister. Michael was so proud of her. Years passed.

She was in her fourth and final year when she discovered she was pregnant again. Michael was overjoyed. Nine months later, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy. They named him Chibuikem, meaning, God is my strength.

Michael beamed with pride, and even Oma, for a fleeting moment, felt joy ripple through her. Oma sang to him, held him, rocked him to sleep. But the shadow remained.

Every time she held Chibuikem, she imagined Chiwendu’s face, the baby girl she left crying by the riverbank. Every time Chibuikem smiled, it reminded her of the smile she never saw her daughter give. She still refused to tell Michael the truth, even though she knew he deserved to know

At night, she would sneak out of bed and cry silently on the bathroom floor. She often looked at herself in the mirror, wondering if motherhood would ever feel complete.

Her arms were full, but her heart was not. She longed to return to Umu Oma, to stand by the river again, to speak to the wind and beg for forgiveness.

One day, Michael touched her face gently as they lay in bed. "You’re always far away, Oma. Even when you smile. Where do you go?" She forced a laugh. "Nowhere. Just tired." He believed her. But deep down, he knew something was missing. Something she wasn’t telling him.

Back to the ev!l forest, eight years had passed since Ujunwa found Chiwendu whom she named Ifunanya. Ifunanya had grown into a radiant girl—sharp-eyed, full of questions, and wise beyond her years.

Her laughter filled the forest hut. Ujunwa had taught her everything she knew. Divination. Herbal healing. How to whisper to the forest and listen to the wind. Ifunanya absorbed it all like the earth drinks rain.

To Ujunwa, she was no longer a child found in grief—she was a daughter born of destiny. Ujunwa had resigned to fate and settled for the forest, but one morning, everything changed.

She had risen early, as always, to gather herbs from the southern slope of the forest. As she bent over a bed of bitterleaf, she suddenly froze. A warm breeze swept past her, and then, a voice deep, echoed in her ears.

“Go back to Umu Oma… it is time.” She gasped, falling backward onto the ground. The leaves trembled around her. Her hands gripped her staff tightly as she looked around, but no one was there.

That night, she knelt by the fire, watching Ifunanya sleep. Could it be the gods calling her home? The same gods whose name had been used to banish her? Or had destiny circled back?

By morning, her mind was made up. “Ifunanya,” she said gently as she woke the girl. “Get dressed, my love. We’re going on a journey.” “To where?” Ifunanya asked, blinking. “Home,” Ujunwa whispered.

They packed a small bag with herbs, and clothes and then set out. Ujunwa didn’t know the way, but somehow, they kept moving. The journey through the forest took them two days.

At dawn on the third day, the villagers saw two figures, emerging from the shadows of the evil forest. Gasps rang out. Women held their wrappers. Children peeked from behind doorways. Few of the villagers recognized Ujunwa

Whispers swirled through Umu Oma like a rising storm. The return of Ujunwa from the dreaded forest was shocking enough. But the unfamiliar girl beside her, ignited even deeper curiosity.

People gathered in clusters, exchanging wild guesses, their eyes fixed on the woman once branded a curse.

But Ujunwa didn’t stop to answer questions. She walked with quiet authority straight to the palace, her staff tapping against the earth with every determined step.

Ifunanya walked quietly beside her. When they reached the palace gate, the head of the guards who recognized her, was shocked. No one had seen Ujunwa in eight years, and none had expected her return.

“I need to speak to the king,” she said calmly. Moments later, word reached the king and she was let in.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Dear readers, you can't know the extent to which keeping a secret could affect you mentally, eating away at your peace and well-being. Consider opening up to someone you trust – it might be the relief you need.

They laughed when she was forced to marry the village madman _ but what he did after the wedding shocked everyone.

Episode 1

Emily was called into the center of the village by her stepmother, Margaret, who stood with arms crossed and eyes blazing. The entire village gathered, eager for gossip. Margaret’s voice cut through the air like a blade, announcing that Emily would marry Jacob—the madman who lived near the woods. Shock rippled through the crowd, followed by gasps and stifled laughter. Emily’s heart pounded in her chest as tears welled up in her eyes. She had always hoped for a quiet, respectful life—not this public humiliation.
She looked over at Jacob, who was being led out like livestock. He walked slowly, not making eye contact, his clothes ragged and hair unkempt. His face, though tired, showed no madness—just quiet pain. The villagers laughed louder as Emily crumbled under the weight of shame. No one knew the truth about Jacob, not even Emily herself. As she stood there, helpless and humiliated, her life changed forever in that moment—and so did his.
The wedding was rushed, almost like a joke. Villagers dressed in their finest came not to celebrate, but to witness the mockery unfold. Women wore bold prints and headscarves, whispering to one another and pointing. The ceremony was held under the old mango tree, the same place where countless happy unions had taken place. But this time, it was different. Emily stood stiffly beside Jacob, her hands trembling as she held her wilted bouquet. The priest hesitated before beginning, as even he felt the discomfort in the air.

Note - this story belongs to jennylight,any page aside from hers stole it.

Jacob didn’t say a word during the entire ceremony. He simply looked at the ground, never once meeting Emily’s eyes. When the priest asked if he accepted her as his wife, he gave a slow nod. No smile. No joy. Just a nod. Emily could feel the eyes of the villagers boring into her skin. Her stepmother smirked, proud of what she had orchestrated. The priest declared them husband and wife, and instead of cheers, laughter echoed through the village square. Emily felt like a lamb led to slaughter, her dignity stripped, her heart hollow.
After the ceremony, there was no celebration—just silence. Emily and Jacob walked down the dusty path toward his tiny hut at the edge of the village. She had never been so humiliated. Her veil fluttered in the breeze, catching on low branches as curious children followed them at a distance, giggling and whispering. Emily’s heart pounded with fear and uncertainty. She didn’t know what kind of man Jacob truly was—only what the village claimed. The madman. The one who talked to himself. The one who lived alone.
Jacob’s home was barely more than a shack—wooden walls, a leaking roof, and a single bench inside. When they arrived, he stepped aside and let her walk in first. No words. Just a nod. Emily stepped into the small space and looked around. It was tidy, strangely enough. There were books stacked in a corner, a small blanket folded neatly on a mat, and a worn drawing pinned to the wall. It was a sketch of the village—but beautifully detailed. Her eyes lingered on it, and for a moment, she felt something shift. Maybe there was more to him than they told her. But fear still clung tightly to her chest.
That night, Emily lay stiffly on one side of the hut, facing the wall. Jacob remained on the other, barely making a sound. The silence was louder than the laughter they had left behind. The wind rustled through the holes in the roof, and a faint drip echoed from a leaky spot near the corner. She couldn’t sleep. Her mind spun with shame, confusion, and fear. Yet, not once did he approach her. No threats. No crazed behavior. Just the occasional cough and the creak of his weight shifting on the mat.
In the morning, she found a steaming cup of boiled herbs and a plate of roasted yam waiting for her on the bench. Jacob wasn’t in the hut. She blinked in confusion. He had gone to the stream, and when he returned, he placed a bundle of firewood beside the door without a word. Emily watched him from inside, her curiosity growing. Was this the madman the village spoke of? He hadn’t spoken to her, but his quiet actions spoke volumes. For the first time, she realized the village might have been wrong—or at least, they didn’t know the full story.

Jennylight
For full story kindly click https://youtu.be/OdGf95ntiXk?si=fEcleCZBdZSVKGbc

I don’t receive calls while driving but this person kept calling and calling until I decided to stop by the roadside and answer the call. It was an old friend who had come to town and wanted to see me.

As I sat parked, engrossed in the conversation, a soft tap on my window startled me. A woman stood outside, her face shadowed in the dim streetlight. I rolled down the window just enough to hear her.

"Are you looking for someone?"

I held up a finger, signaling I was on a call. She nodded and walked away.

Before I could resume my conversation, another knock. A different woman this time, her tone polite but insistent. "Do you need something? Maybe I can help?"

Confusion flickered. Was I parked illegally?

"No, I’m just on a call," I explained.

She gave a knowing smile and retreated. That’s when I noticed them—a small group of women lingering nearby, their postures relaxed but alert. Another car pulled up ahead. One of them approached, exchanged a few words, then climbed in. The car drove off.

Oh.

I wasn’t just parked on the side of the road. I was in their territory.

A third woman approached before I could process it fully. This time, I shook my head before she even spoke. She smirked and walked away.

I should have left. But curiosity pinned me there.

Cars came and went. The women worked like clockwork—a brief exchange, a nod, then one would disappear into a vehicle.

One of them stood out.

Tall, fair-skinned, wrapped in a short skirt and a white crop top that hugged her curves. Even in the dim light, her confidence was magnetic.

Why is someone like her doing this?

The thought lingered until she sauntered toward my car.

I don’t know why I did it—maybe impulse, maybe something darker—but before she reached me, I slipped off my wedding ring and tucked it into my pocket.

She leaned in, elbows resting on the window frame, lips curved in a slow, knowing smile.

"You’ve been here a while. Not sure who to pick?" Her voice was smooth, teasing. "Well, here I am. Tell me something."

Up close, she was stunning—sharp cheekbones, full lips, eyes that held a challenge. My pulse kicked up.

"I just pulled over to take a call," I said, but my voice lacked conviction.

She laughed, low and throaty. "It’s a beautiful night. I can make it better."

"How?"

"Take me somewhere private. You’ll see."

My mind raced. My body betrayed me.

"How much?" The words slipped out before I could stop them.

She quoted prices—short time, all night. I chose the former.

The hotel was her pick. The moment the door closed, she shed her clothes without ceremony, lying back on the bed like a transaction waiting to be completed.

I hesitated. "No foreplay?"

She arched a brow. "You want foreplay from an ashawo? Touch yourself. I’m here for one thing."

Reality crashed in. This wasn’t seduction. It was a business deal—cold, mechanical.

I tried. I wanted to want it. But my thing refused to rise to the occasion.

She grew impatient. "You’re wasting my time."

"It’s my first time doing this," I admitted.

She scoffed. "Then you should’ve paid for premium service."

When I was still struggling to get it to rise to the occasion, she got up and started dressing. She said, "You’re impotent. Or ******. Either way, pay me."

"For what? We didn’t do anything."

Her eyes hardened. She pulled out her phone. "I’m calling my guys. You’ll pay before they get here."

Fear coiled in my gut. I handed over double what we’d agreed.

She snatched the money, smirked, and left without looking back.

I sat in my car, hands shaking, guilt and relief warring inside me.

Then I remembered the ring in my pocket.

Had I taken it off to hide my marriage? Or because some part of me knew I shouldn’t be here at all?

Maybe it didn’t matter. Maybe the shame was the point.

I started the engine and drove home—slowly, carefully, like a man who’d just dodged a bullet.

SHE HAD A ONE NIGHT STAND WITH A BILLIONAIRE THEN THIS HAPPENED ……

Episode 2

And then she saw two bold pink lines. Positive.
Joy froze.
Her breath caught in her throat, and for a moment she thought she might pass out. She was pregnant. She pressed a hand to her stomach trying to make sense of it.
A life was growing inside her. Lawrence Johnson's child.
Tears welled in her eyes.
What was she going to do? For the next few days, Joy couldn't sleep. Her mind kept racing with one question. Should she tell him? She didn't even have his phone number.
The only way to reach him was through his company, Johnson Group. After struggling with the decision, she finally gathered the courage to go to his office.
The Johnson Group building in Leosville was a towering glass structure that seemed to touch the sky.
Inside, everything was sleek and polished, filled with expensive suits and the sound of heels clicking on marble floors. Joy felt small. She approached the front desk, her hands clenched into fists.
I need to see Mr. Lawrence Johnson, she said trying to keep her voice steady. The receptionist, a tall woman with a tight bun and an even tighter expression, gave her a disbelieving look.
Do you have an appointment? Joy hesitated.
No, but it's important. Please, I just need a few minutes. The receptionist sighed loudly, tapping on her keyboard.
Mr. Johnson doesn't meet people without an appointment. If you'd like to book one, the earliest available date is three months from now. Joy's heart sank.
Three months? By then, she would already be showing.
There's no way to see him sooner? She asked, desperate. The woman gave her a sharp look.
Ma'am, Mr. Johnson is not someone you can just walk in and see. If you don't have an appointment, I suggest you leave. Joy stared at her, feeling a lump form in her throat.
So this was how it was. She had been nothing to him that night, and now she couldn't even get five minutes of his time. She turned away slowly, feeling defeated.
But as she reached the door, another thought hit her.
Even if she did manage to tell Lawrence, what would he think? That she was trying to trap him. That she wanted his money.

Joy's stomach twisted. She had already seen what he thought of women like her. He left her money on the nightstand like she was a prostitute.
He would never believe she wasn't trying to use this pregnancy against him. And honestly, she didn't want anything from him. She didn't need his money.
She didn't need his name. She would raise this baby on her own. Taking a deep breath, Joy walked out of Johnson Group, her decision made.
She would never reach out to him again. He would never know about this child. She would be both mother and father.
She didn't need him. She never had. And so, Joy disappeared from Lawrence's world, taking their child with her.

After much thought joy had to resign from her work inorder to take care of herself and her unborn son .
It was a really tough moment for her as she didn’t have any single money to even feed .
At a time she considered committing an Abortion but her conscience wouldn’t let her

The only person she could confined in was her old mother who accepted her whole heartedly and tried to ease the burden from her shoulders .
Her mother despite her old age still took extreme care of her daughter and her unborn child .

Joy and her mother would normally sit outside under the mango tree every evening to gist and talk about past events of the day but one day joy decided to bring up the idea of aborting the child
her mother looked at her sternly ,Joy ,joy joy how many times did I call you
Don’t make the mistake of terminating the blessing that God had sent you
After saying this she stood up and went into her room to sleep leaving joy thinking to herself .

She finally concluded within her not to terminate the child as it could be what God has destined .

One day as joy was sweeping the front yard of their hut ,she started to feel a sharp pain at her abdomen region , she screamed in pain as her mother rushed out
Her mother quickly called some men to help her and they rushed joy to the nearest hospital

Push !! Push !!, The doctors voice was heard from the labour room
Her mother just sat in the waiting room praying silently to herself

30 minutes later the doctor came out with a wide smile on his face
He looked at joy’s mother and said happily
Congratulations mama ,your daughter has just given birth to a bouncing baby boy
Joy’s mother had tears of joy running down her cheeks as she rushed in to see her daughter smiling at her while holding her son
She couldn’t hold back her tears as she hugged her daughter graciously
Mama ,Joy called out ,meet Noah your grandson who is going to wipe both your tears and mine away .

FIVE YEARS LATER
The streets of Leosville bustled with life, filled with the sound of honking cars, people bargaining in open-air markets, and the distant hum of construction sites. The city had grown, just as Noah had.
At just five years old, Noah Daniels was a ball of energy.
His bright eyes shone with curiosity and his laughter was contagious. He was the reason Joy Daniels kept pushing forward every single day.
She had worked hard over the years, climbing her way up in the interior design industry.

Though she didn't have her own company yet, she had made a name for herself.
Clients admired her work, and she was proud that she had built a stable life for Noah without anyone's help.
She didn't need Lawrence Johnson. She had erased him from her life. But fate had other plans.

It was a warm afternoon, and Joy had promised Noah a trip to Royal Crest Mall, one of the most luxurious shopping centres in Leosville. The mall was owned by none other than Johnson Group. But Joy didn't think much of that.
She had long stopped worrying about Lawrence crossing paths with her. He probably wouldn't even remember her, so what were the chances? Noah ran ahead excitedly, tugging on Joy's hand as they passed through the mall's food court.
Mommy, can I have ice cream? he asked, his big brown eyes filled with hope.
Joy smiled. Okay, okay. Just one scoop.

She led him to a small ice cream stand, waiting as the vendors scooped vanilla into a cup. Noah grinned, happily digging in as they continued walking.
It was supposed to be just another normal day.

Until she heard a voice. A voice that made her entire body freeze.
Across the mall, standing in front of a row of luxury stores, Lawrence Johnson stood with a men in suits.

He was doing his routine property inspection, something he rarely had time for, but today he had decided to visit the mall personally with his management staff.
As he listened to his assistant discuss sales figures, his gaze casually swept across the food court. And then he saw the child.
A small boy. Dark curly hair. A sharp jawline.
A face that looked almost exactly like his own. Lawrence stopped breathing.
The resemblance was too strong to ignore.
His heart pounded as he watched the boy take a bite of his ice cream, laughing as his mother wiped a smudge off his cheek. And then, his eyes shifted to the woman holding the boy's hand. Something flickered in his mind, a vague sense of familiarity, but he couldn't place her.

Where had he seen her before? Who was she?
And why did her son look exactly like him? Before he knew what he was doing, Lawrence started
walking toward them. Joy was laughing at something Noah had said when she felt a presence behind her.
A dark, powerful presence.
She turned, and her heart dropped.

TBC….

Please let’s endeavour to react

RULES TO A HAPPY, SMART & WISE LIFE....!!!

1. Speak Less, Listen More.

Wisdom: Listening sharpens understanding; silence guards your dignity. Words are powerful tools — the fewer, the better, if you intend them to matter.
Application: When you listen more, people reveal their true intentions. When you speak, weigh your words like a surgeon choosing his tools. Speak when your words can heal, uplift, or instruct.

2. Avoid Pointless Arguments.

Wisdom: Energy is finite. Spend it where it multiplies, not where it drains. Some debates are traps designed to rob you of your peace and reputation.
Application: Learn to smile and excuse yourself from verbal traps. Wise people win wars, not battles. Pick your conversations the way kings pick alliances.

3. Think Before You Speak.

Wisdom: Words are seeds. Once sown, they grow — whether into flowers or thorns.
Application: Practice the three-filter test: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? If it fails any, remain silent.

4. Practice Humility and Politeness.

Wisdom: Humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. The polite person commands more than the arrogant ever will.
Application: Greet even those who despise you. Show grace to those who can do nothing for you. The seeds of kindness grow silently but fruitfully.

5. Master Emotional Discipline.

Wisdom: He who angers you, controls you. Emotions are natural, but they make terrible masters.
Application: Practice the pause. When emotions flare, pause, breathe, reflect, then respond with reason, not rage.

6. Keep Your Plans Private.

Wisdom: Success loves silence. The unborn idea is safest in the womb of your discretion.
Application: Share your victories, not your strategies. Let your results speak; let your silence confuse your critics.

7. Resist Self-Centered Conversations.

Wisdom: People care more about themselves than your story. If you wish to be memorable, make them feel important.
Application: Ask about others' journeys, listen intently, and respond thoughtfully. The less you talk about yourself, the more powerful your presence becomes.

8. Maintain Eye Contact & Confidence.

Wisdom: Confidence isn’t loud; it’s calm, direct, and unflinching.
Application: When speaking, fix your eyes on the listener with a relaxed gaze. Let your posture mirror your inner conviction.

9. Celebrate Your Uniqueness.

Wisdom: The world doesn’t reward replicas; it celebrates originals.
Application: Identify your strengths, embrace your flaws, and find your voice. Authenticity magnetizes the right people and repels the wrong ones.

10. Commit Fully or Don’t Begin.

Wisdom: Half-heartedness is the graveyard of greatness.
Application: Before starting, ask yourself, Will I finish this? Am I ready to sacrifice for it? If not, preserve your energy for a pursuit worthy of your all.

11. Silence is the Best Answer to H@ters.

Wisdom: Not every insult demands your defense.
Application: Treat criticism as a mirror. If it’s true, adjust. If it’s false, ignore. Do not dignify pettiness with a reply.

12. Train Your Mind to Think Critically.

Wisdom: The difference between mediocrity and mastery lies in perspective.
Application: Before believing anything, ask Why? and What if? Seek patterns, motives, and consequences in everything.

13. Avoid the Crowd Mentality.

Wisdom: The majority is often wrong, history proves it.
Application: Stand for truth, even if it means standing alone. Be bold enough to disagree respectfully when the crowd chants foolishness.

14. Dodge Drama & Manipulation.

Wisdom: A wise man never enters a battle where no prize exists.
Application: Don’t react to bait. Avoid circles where chaos is currency. Value your peace above fleeting vindication.

15. Ask Thoughtful, Insightful Questions.

Wisdom: Questions open doors answers cannot reach.
Application: When in conversation, ask ‘why’, ‘what led to that’, ‘how did you feel about it’ — it deepens connections and sharpens your wisdom.

16. Guard Your Time & Availability.

Wisdom: Over-availability breeds entitlement and disrespect.
Application: Be selectively accessible. Value your solitude, your time to reflect, learn, and recharge.

17. Stay Dynamic, Not Stagnant.

Wisdom: Change is the only constant. Evolve, or you’ll dissolve.
Application: Learn a new skill every season. Challenge your routines. Travel through books, ideas, and places. Comfort zones are graveyards.

18. Accept That Enigmatic People Are Both Loved and H@ted.

Wisdom: Mystery invites curiosity and criticism. The price of distinction is isolation from mediocrity.
Application: Don’t water yourself down for public comfort. Be kind, be wise, but never shrink to fit anyone’s fragile insecurities.

Final Thought:

A happy, smart, and wise life isn’t accidental — it’s intentional. It’s built through daily choices, disciplined thoughts, guarded emotions, and bold actions. The one who masters himself controls his world.

7 WAYS TO BUILD TRUST IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP/MARRIAGE (PART 1)

The short story in between should teach you a lesson.

Trust is the backbone of any strong relationship.

It’s what makes love safe, secure, and long-lasting. But trust isn’t automatic—it is built through consistent actions, honesty, and reliability.

Here are seven powerful ways to build trust in your relationship or marriage:

1. BE HONEST, EVEN ABOUT THE SMALL THINGS

Let me tell you a short story

Chijioke and Ada had been married for three years when Chijioke suddenly started acting restless. He was distant, easily irritated, and always on his phone. Ada noticed but assumed it was work stress.

One evening, a strange number called his phone while he was in the shower. Out of curiosity, Ada answered.

“Mr. Chijioke, this is our final warning. Pay back the ₦2 million loan or face legal action.”

Ada’s heart dropped. A loan? For ₦2 million? She had no idea her husband had borrowed money.

When he came out, she confronted him. He sighed and said, “I didn’t want to stress you, so I didn’t tell you.”

Ada felt betrayed. Not because of the debt, but because he had kept it a secret.

That night, she lay awake thinking, “If he can hide this, what else is he hiding?”

And that was the foundation of distrust she developed towards her husband. She started doubting most of the things he says

Here’s the truth:

Hiding the truth, even with good intentions, damages trust. Ada wasn’t upset about the loan itself—she was upset about the secrecy.

When you are honest, even about small things, your partner feels safe and secure. When you start keeping secrets, doubt creeps in.

How do you achieve this?

Speak the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.
If you make a mistake, own up to it instead of covering it up.
Never assume small lies won’t matter—they always do in the long run.

Biblical Wisdom: “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.” — Proverbs 12:22

To be continued……..


Your #relationshipcoach
#marriagecounselor
#lovebankers

Omo oya now satisfy your curiosity and fill your stomach

Did you know that a tablespoon of honey is enough to keep a person alive for 24 hours?
Did you know that one of the world's first coins featured the symbol of a bee?
Did you know that honey contains living enzymes?
Did you know that when it comes into contact with a metal spoon, these enzymes die?
The best way to eat honey is with a wooden spoon; if you can't find one, use a plastic spoon.
Did you know that honey contains a substance that helps the brain function better?
Did you know that honey is one of the few foods on Earth that can sustain human life on its own?
Did you know that bees saved people from starvation in Africa?
Did you know that propolis, produced by bees, is one of the most powerful natural antibiotics?
Did you know that honey has no expiration date?
Did you know that the bodies of the world's greatest emperors were buried in golden coffins and then covered with honey to prevent decomposition?
Did you know that the term "honeymoon" comes from the tradition of newlyweds consuming honey to boost fertility after marriage?
Did you know that a bee lives less than 40 days, visits at least 1,000 flowers, and produces less than a teaspoon of honey, but for the bee, it is the work of an entire lifetime?
Thank you, precious bees..!
Credits: Curiosity
#didyouknow #didyouknowfacts #DidYouKnow

Famous Quotes from CHARLES DICKENS' notable novels:

"A Tale of Two Cities" (1859)
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.”

"Great Expectations" (1861)
“Ask no questions, and you’ll be told no lies.”

"Oliver Twist" (1838)
“Please, sir, I want some more.”

"David Copperfield" (1850)
“Never do tomorrow what you can do today. Procrastination is the thief of time.”

"Bleak House" (1853)
“The one great principle of the English law is to make business for itself.”

"Hard Times" (1854)
“There is a wisdom of the Head, and... there is a wisdom of the Heart.”

"The Pickwick Papers" (1837)
“It is a melancholy truth that even great men have their poor relations.”

"Nicholas Nickleby" (1839)
“The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again.”

"Little Dorrit" (1857)
“A person who can’t pay, gets another person who can’t pay, to guarantee that he can pay.”

"The Old Curiosity Shop" (1841)
“We forge the chains we wear in life.”

Charles Dickens' works are filled with wisdom, social critique, and unforgettable characters. Do you have a favorite among his novels?

Story time
A woman marries the man of her dreams, but on their wedding night, he insists on keeping the lights off and staying under the sheets.

She finds it a little odd but assumes he’s just shy and doesn’t think much of it.

Over the next 30 years, they build a beautiful life together. They buy a house, get a dog, and raise three wonderful children. But there’s one thing that still bothers her—her husband always insists on keeping the lights off at night.

One evening, curiosity finally gets the best of her. Determined to figure out why, she hides a flashlight under her pillow. Just as things get cozy, she suddenly throws back the sheets and shines the light.

To her shock, she discovers something completely unexpected.

Furious and feeling betrayed, she starts yelling. “How could you keep this from me for 30 years? I trusted you! I feel like such a fool!”

Her husband sighs, waits for her to finish, and calmly says,

“I’ll explain this if you explain the kids.”

AWERO, THE RIVER GODDESS
Bankole Ikusika

Episode 5: The Rising Tide of Dissent

The air in the Kingdom of Iye was thick with tension and reverberated with uncertainty. As word spread about the budding relationship between Awero, the goddess of the river, and Kofi, the rebellious shepherd from Ewele village, discontent brewed among the inhabitants. Whispers of betrayal and betrayal echoed through the hearts of her subjects, igniting a fervor that demanded to be voiced.

Awero had always believed in the power of love and connection, yet the very essence of her being now faced the threat of dissent. The villagers gathered near the riverbanks, forming a mass of voices laden with dismay. They regarded her not as their beloved goddess but as a figure whose choices questioned the sanctity of the traditions that had guided their lives for generations.

Among them was Ayi, a fierce elder and protector of the kingdom's values, whose wisdom was respected but whose heart had grown hard over the years. “We must unite!” Ayi declared, her voice slicing through the murmurs like a knife. “This romance with Kofi stains the sacred waters we revere. If our goddess wishes to defy tradition, then we shall rise against her!”

The crowd roared in agreement, fuelled by the fear that Awero’s love could taint their indelible connection to the Ije River. “We will not stand idly by while our goddess cavorts with a mortal!” shouted Jume, a young villager whose passion echoed the sentiment swirling through the masses. “If love is to conquer, then it will do so over our dead bodies!”

Awero and Kofi stood side by side, witnessing the storm brewing before them, hearts heavy with the weight of what was at stake. Kofi’s brow knitted with concern, and he turned to Awero. “This cannot be how they remember you. We must face them and explain the purity of our love. These fires of dissent only burn because they misunderstand,” he vowed.

Awero’s heart ached. She had never wanted to bring unrest to her land, only love and healing. Yet she stood resolute, determined to claim her truth. “Then let us address them, Kofi. If they wish to love me as they do the river, they must first understand that my heart cannot be bound by tradition alone.”

Together, they approached the gathering, their presence silencing the noise. Awero’s luminescent form shone brightly before the villagers, a figure of grace and longing. “People of Iye,” her voice resonated like a gentle waterfall. “I hear your concerns and understand your fears. But I ask you to embrace the spirit of love, for everything ties back to our hearts.”

“But goddess!” an elder interjected, his voice shrouded in despair. “You would cast aside tradition, the very rules that bind us? Our ancestors gave us these truths to maintain balance, and now you toss them aside for a fleeting whim! What becomes of us?”

Awero felt the burden of their doubts settle upon her, heavy like stones. She turned to Kofi, whose unwavering confidence bolstered her spirit. “This love is no fleeting whim; it is a connection borne out of understanding and a shared journey. I see greatness in him, and he sees the essence of me beyond my divinity. Shouldn’t we herald the love that strengthens us rather than the fear that chains us?”

While her words spoke to many, the dissenters grew louder. “If you continue down this path, we will revolt! Kofi will become a symbol of your betrayal!” Ayi’s voice rang out in defiance, urging the villagers to take action.

With fury rising like the waters of the river in a storm, the villagers began rallying together, spreading the words of rebellion like wildfire. Kofi felt desperation pool in his chest. “You cannot turn against the river, the essence of life that nurtured you!” he pleaded, raising his hands in a gesture of peace. “Awero does not abandon you; she seeks to redefine our understanding of existence, forging a path through love!”

Awero, witnessing the anger of her people, felt a tear slip from her eye, a drop of shimmering water cascading down her cheek. “I do not wish to abandon tradition, but rather to encompass love as a part of it,” she spoke, a tremor in her voice. “Let us shift our people's notions from fear of the divine to respect for the love it inspires.”

Yet Ayi’s followers rallied to her side like a tempest closing in. “We will not be silenced! Remove Kofi from our realm, or we will revolt and reclaim our land!” The threat loomed like thunderclouds.

With hearts aching under the weight of chaos, Awero and Kofi withdrew to the riverbank, seeking solace in each other’s embrace. The waters lapped gently around them, belying the storm brewing above. “What hope do we have if they refuse to listen? Our love is drowned in a sea of rigid tradition,” Kofi said, anguish flooding his voice.

Awero’s heart felt heavy at the thought of losing not only Kofi but also the love she had for her people. “We must do something, Kofi. If they rise against me, this will create a rift that will never heal. I cannot allow violence to taint the love we’ve fostered.”

Kofi contemplated her words, a spark igniting within. “Perhaps it is a time for a vision—a way for them to witness the connection we share. Let them see what love can do, the strength of unity! Let us unite our worlds, not through force but through understanding.”

Awero’s face lit up at this idea, her heart racing at the potential it held. “What do you suggest?”

“We could gather the villagers to witness the harmony of our love. I will venture into the depths of the river, and you will guide me. Let them glimpse the beauty our bond can manifest—a celebration of love that transcends the mundane.”

While Awero held apprehensions about exposing her true potential to the villagers, the thought of losing Kofi tore at her heart. “We shall do it,” she decided, quiet determination settling in her core.

As twilight enveloped the sky, Awero and Kofi prepared for the moment where the essence of their love could be revealed. The villagers gathered stiffly near the water’s edge, wary eyes trained upon the couple. Ayi stood prominently among them, crafting her thoughts into a formidable wariness.

“Let the goddess show us her folly,” she sneered, arms crossed defiantly.

Awero called out to the villagers, her voice soothing yet firm as the currents of the river. “Tonight, I wish to show you what love has the power to create. Trust in this connection!” As she intertwined her fingers with Kofi’s, the air shimmered with anticipation.

Kofi took a deep breath as he stepped forward, anchoring himself in Awero’s love. He plunged into the river, surrounded by the luminescence of the goddess’ magic. With each stroke, waves of light began to ripple through the depths, reflecting colors unseen; a twinkling symphony of blue and gold danced upon the surface.

Awero whispered incantations that brought forth vision to the villagers—a luminous world of intertwined destinies where love conquers fear. As Kofi glided through the currents, the waters began to swirl and shimmer, crafting vivid scenes of life filled with joy and unity.

Translucent images began to form around them; joyous villages thriving with laughter and mirth, couples tied together in bonds of love, strengthened by faith in each other, and the essence of life flourishing like the vibrant flowers that adorned their lands. The villagers watched with widened eyes, dazzled by this radiant display of harmony.

As Kofi emerged from the water, his body enveloped in light, he took Awero’s hand, their ethereal connection illuminating the entire riverbank. “This is what we fear losing! Love deems more powerful than all, binding us to each other and to the land. I am a mere shepherd, yet standing by this goddess—I am home!”

The spectators fell silent, the enchanting display weaving through their hearts, kindling sparks of curiosity where fear had resided. Awero, unfurling her arms, motioned for the villagers to gather closer to the river.

“Witness the life we could cultivate, a flourishing realm where love, not fear, binds our destinies,” she impassioned, her radiant presence illuminating the night. “Should we not embrace what can bring joy—a soul both mortal and divine?”

Slowly, the community began to shift, understanding unraveling within their hearts like the delicate petals of a bloom. Each villager contemplated their own relationships and the profound love that guided them through life. The doubts that once clouded their hearts began to lift, as whispers traversed the crowd.

“Perhaps we have misunderstood,” a voice murmured from the back. “Are we not made stronger by love?”

Yet Ayi, steadfast in her beliefs, raised her hands in defiance against the tide of change. “This will lead to calamity! You, dear people, are being blinded by a temporary dazzle! Remember our traditions!”

As the tide of voices began to shift, Kofi felt the potency of the moment building. “We can honor our traditions while allowing for new growth, Ayi. Do not fear what you do not understand. Our connection only seeks to deepen the love we hold for each other and our land.”

Ayi’s dark brow furrowed as she scanned the seeds of doubt taking root within the crowd. “You speak of love, yet love can lead us astray, and nothing remains sacred if boundaries are torn apart!”

Awero, sensing Ayi’s deep anguish and struggling to maintain the bonds of ancient customs, turned to her with compassion. “I do not seek to erase your traditions—merely to redefine them. Allow our love to be part of this journey! We can intertwine the threads of our fates while honoring your wisdom, Ayi, joining our hearts as one.”

The crowd murmured, captivated by her tender approach, while Ayi’s resolve faltered momentarily as she saw the light glimmering in their eyes.

“Can we bend, yet remain strong? Can we love without losing the heart of our values?” Ayi’s voice wavered, her gaze flickered to the shimmering waters of the river, its depths symbolizing the profound understanding they sought. “Will this ensure our traditions hold their importance? That we honor our ancestors while embracing the love that binds us?”

Awero nodded earnestly. “Let us forge a new path together, illuminating the values of both love and tradition. The heart is capable of holding both—together, we can transform what is in danger of being lost into something even more profound.”

And slowly, as Kofi and Awero’s unwavering spirits revealed the light of possibility, the villagers begun to look at each other. Unraveling their fears, the ripples of understanding glimmered like stars in the night sky.

In the face of chaos, Kofi and Awero had ignited a glimmer of hope—an understanding that could bridge the divide between love and tradition. Still, Ayi stood firm, the weight of history pressing against her resolve.

“I will not relinquish my caution or let you lead me astray without proof of your worth,” she said, her voice resolute. “If you truly wish to unite love with tradition, then you must first prove your intentions. A goddess cannot simply declare her love and expect all to follow.”

And thus, the challenge was laid before them. Awero and Kofi must endure trials of the heart, not only to prove their love but also to showcase that this union could invigorate the very essence of life within the village while retaining the wisdom of the past. It was a daunting task, but they were determined to fight for their love, to showcase that connection was more powerful than fear.

The river flowed with renewed vigor that night, carrying both shadows of doubt and the light of understanding. Awero and Kofi found themselves at a turning point, where their love could ripple through the kingdom, transforming hearts and guiding the kingdom toward acceptance.

With hope flickering in their souls, together they embarked on a journey that would redefine their destinies—a tug of war between love and tradition, where the outcome remained uncertain, yet hope towered billowy like the grand clouds above—a reminder that even in a storm, harmony could prevail, and love could illuminate their path.

They would set out to forge new threads in the fabric of their people, weaving a tapestry that honored both love and history—ever stronger together, as the Kingdom of Iye River watched, waiting for the dawn of a new awakening to unfold...
To be continued in Episode 6

Did you know that a tablespoon of honey is enough to keep a person alive for 24 hours?
Did you know that one of the world's first coins featured the symbol of a bee?
Did you know that honey contains living enzymes?
Did you know that when it comes into contact with a metal spoon, these enzymes die?
The best way to eat honey is with a wooden spoon; if you can't find one, use a plastic spoon.
Did you know that honey contains a substance that helps the brain function better?
Did you know that honey is one of the few foods on Earth that can sustain human life on its own?
Did you know that bees saved people from starvation in Africa?
Did you know that propolis, produced by bees, is one of the most powerful natural antibiotics?
Did you know that honey has no expiration date?
Did you know that the bodies of the world's greatest emperors were buried in golden coffins and then covered with honey to prevent decomposition?
Did you know that the term "honeymoon" comes from the tradition of newlyweds consuming honey to boost fertility after marriage?
Did you know that a bee lives less than 40 days, visits at least 1,000 flowers, and produces less than a teaspoon of honey, but for the bee, it is the work of an entire lifetime?
Thank you, precious bees..!
Credits: Curiosity
#didyouknow #didyouknowfacts #DidYouKnow