LIFE'S SYMPHONY, DRAMA, AND A MARKETPLACE

By Makinde Timileyin

Life can be depicted in numerous ways, but for me, it resembles a tune, a performance, and a bazaar. As a tune, life consists of various notes and tempos. At times, the words seem absent, leaving us to seek significance. Yet once the words are found, we revel in satisfaction, living sincerely and with intention. Some individuals discover these words early and are celebrated, while others pursue them tirelessly, never truly uncovering them until they return to the Supreme Being, who alone evaluates all.

As a marketplace, life is filled with valuables; gold, silver, and endless resources that facilitate existence. However, in this bazaar, nothing is free; the more valuable the item, the steeper the cost. After shopping, each person returns to their origin. This is why, when someone passes away, we say they have “gone home,” holding onto the hope of a joyful reunion someday.

Life is also akin to a grand theater. Each of us plays a character in an unseen narrative. No one is aware of when their scene will come to a close; we continue performing until the Director signals the end. When death comes, bodies grow cold, and those left behind grieve, yet whether extraordinary or ordinary, every performer departs the stage.

These reflections raise questions. Are suffering, loss, and inequality merely parts of the story? Why do some work tirelessly with little reward while others find success with little effort? Why do some live on the streets while others possess homes they seldom use? Why can't we select our own roles?

As Shakespeare pointed out, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” Life is never distributed evenly; some are born into opportunity, others forge their own, while some are uplifted by sheer luck. Fate often feels unjust, but this is part of life’s enigma.

Nevertheless, I hold that effort is never in vain. Diligence may not yield immediate results, but it cultivates resilience and ultimately bears fruit, just as a farmer enjoys the harvest after diligent toil. Faith can also alter fate, as life encompasses not just the physical realm but is profoundly spiritual. When human endeavor aligns with divine favor, the unattainable becomes achievable.

Living with purpose requires persistent effort. Obstacles and failures are unavoidable, but they equip us for greater triumphs. The stage rewards not those who give up before the final scene, but those who stand firm until the conclusion. Most importantly, we must never claim “never.” Countless who faced failure repeatedly rose to prominence simply because they refused to surrender.

As Nelson Mandela expressed, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Maya Angelou counseled, “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated.” And Winston Churchill asserted, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” These quotes remind us that perseverance, belief, and hope are the keys to unraveling life’s enigmas.

Life may hold uncertainties, but it is never devoid of meaning. Whether viewed as a melody, a performance, or a bazaar, it urges us to live with courage, gratitude, and faith. Ultimately, what matters is not the duration of the song, but the quality with which it was performed.