By Abike Akintuyi Awojobi
For the past few days, I have been using the newly built pedestrian bridge while using public transportation.
This bridge is part of the ongoing construction of the Ikeja Along bridge, which connects to the computer village. During the motions of ascending and descending, I’ve had some thoughts I’d like to share with you.
Aiming for the top is not easy. Every day on the bridge, I see people with different senses of urgency climbing one step at a time. Some have boundless energy, reaching the top in record time, unburdened by any baggage. They serve as a source of inspiration, motivating others to double up and reach for the top.
However, there are others carrying baggage, be it physical, mental, spiritual, or financial. They take measured paces, making way for those eager to reach the top. Despite the time it may take, they too will eventually reach their goal.
The view from the top is quite refreshing. Once, I saw a group clustered at the peak, pointing towards the local airport hanger. Curious as a journalist, I asked what caught their attention. They replied, “We are just looking at the airplanes.” It turns out they were fascinated with the opportunity to see planes in their impressive proportions for the first time ever. I realized that what some people take for granted due to their privileges are luxuries for many.
I occasionally fly locally and remember my first flight experience. It required personal adjustments to embrace the luxury of air travel, and I could relate to those excited at the chance to watch planes take off and land.
Strangely, at the top of the bridge, the stretch to the other side feels calmer. After the exhausting climb, one just wants to catch their breath and take it easy. Yet, it is ironic that after reaching the top, many fail to pause and enjoy the view. They continue to rush, unaware of the beauty they’ve earned by getting there.
Survival instincts make it difficult to stop. Everyone’s time is limited, and there’s pressure not to be overtaken by others coming behind. It’s a sad reality.
No matter how leisurely you stroll on the stretch, you will eventually have to start descending. I believe not everyone will always remain at the top. Descent does not always mean disgrace, disaster, or total loss. It’s a natural part of life’s journey, where one ascends and descends at the right time. Unfortunately, an unfortunate incident may lead to an early descent, leaving unimaginable losses in its wake.
When the time comes to leave the top, be cautious during the descent. Unlike climbing up the stairs, if you trip, you’re less likely to fall backward. When climbing down the stairs, a missed step can lead to a tumble and a hard fall.
During your descent, take it slow and easy. Cherish what you’re leaving behind and view them as memories to be shared with others. It’s not a time to panic; those memories will stay with you in one way or another.
As you descend, you’ll also meet those who are on their way to the top. Offer them the support they need. This is not the time to push them out of the way. You had your time to shine; now let them have theirs.
Lastly, there are those determined to reach the top without the effort of climbing the stairs. Some try to race across the railway tracks, partitioned with barbed wire by the government to prevent thoroughfares. They see the top as an obstacle and take shortcuts to get there.
In conclusion, these individuals may or may not succeed. If they do, they miss the chance to enjoy the view from the top and may even face consequences from patrol agencies. Even if they reach the top, they will have nothing to offer others because they won’t know how they got there or what to do with the privilege.