The Sharon of Relationships
In Nigeria, relationships are the backbone of our culture. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the quiet villages in Kwara, relationships weave a thread that binds us in ways we sometimes take for granted. Whether it's the laughter shared at a pepper soup joint or the comfort of a friend's voice during tough times, relationships are the treasures that make life worth living.
But let’s be honest: relationships aren’t always rosy. They demand patience, understanding, and vulnerability, things we sometimes shy away from. Yet, it’s in those vulnerable moments that the true beauty of relationships emerges. It’s when we show our flaws and someone says, “I see you, and I still care.”
Sharon, you are one of those rare people who makes relationships feel easy. You don’t just read my articles; you feel them. You remind me that my words hold power even when I’m unsure of myself. Like this morning, when I sent you a birthday request, unsure of how it would be received, and you replied with kindness that lit up my day.
“You write so well,” you said. Such a simple sentence, yet it struck a chord deep within me. You reminded me of why I love to write, not for perfection, but to connect, to share, and to be seen. That’s the thing about relationships; they’re a mirror that reflects our best selves, even when we struggle to see it.
In this country where life feels so hard, where we juggle traffic, power outages, and endless challenges, people like you, Sharon, are a breath of fresh air. Your friendship is a reminder that even in the chaos, we can find beauty. You push me to be better without even trying, and your encouragement feels like jollof rice after a long day: comforting, satisfying, and just what I need.
I’ve had days where my confidence wavered, moments when my writing felt like random ramblings and the weight of life threatened to crush my creativity. But then, you come along, casually dropping a word of reassurance that feels like a lifeline. It’s the way you read between the lines of my articles and see beyond the words, recognizing the person behind them. That’s rare, Sharon. That’s special.
Relationships like ours remind me that even in our most vulnerable state, we’re stronger when we have people who see us for who we are. You’ve made me realize that it’s okay to lean on others, to find joy in connection, and to believe in myself even when I feel small.
Life in Nigeria has a way of testing us, but relationships are the balm that soothes the soul. They are the late-night phone calls that turn tears into laughter, the random WhatsApp messages that make you smile in the middle of a frustrating day, and the shared dreams that remind you of all the possibilities life still holds.
Sharon, this article is for you because you embody the very essence of what makes relationships beautiful. Your words, your laughter, your honesty, they’re like a soft glow in the chaos of everyday life. Thank you for being the kind of friend who not only cheers me on but also reminds me why I should never stop trying.
To everyone who reads this, may you find your own “Sharon.” And when you do, hold them close. Because in the end, the beauty of relationships isn’t just in what they give us but in how they inspire us to give back.
I love you, Sharon. I sincerely do!
