Ada, the dance leader — ọ bụ uzo egwu. 💕

Adamma was well known in her village of Obono. She was the epitome of beauty, wrapped in grace and good character. 💖 She was the desire of every young man in her village and beyond. Whenever she smiled on the dance floor, her beauty radiated so brightly that each man secretly wished for just one hour alone with her. 💕

Her father, Uloka, became popular — not because of his own achievements, but because of the fame of his daughter. Our people say that what an elder sees while sitting down, even if a child climbs the highest mountain, he or she will not see it. 💖 Despite Ada’s fame and popularity, one thing continued to trouble her parents: she was of age to settle down and give them grandchildren, yet that thought seemed completely absent from Adamma’s mind. 💕

Her mother, Mgbomma — whom she resembled in both beauty and character — pleaded with her to accept Obiora, the hunter and businessman from Umuntu. But Adamma did not only refuse suitors; she eventually stopped dancing as well. Most of her age mates had married, and she began to feel above the current age grade of the Umuada. 💖

One day, while speaking with her mother, Adamma mentioned that she attended the popular Ihajioku dance festival but refused to sing or dance. Mgbomma asked, “Did the dance continue?”

“Yes,” Adamma replied.

Her mother turned to her gently and said, “A good dancer knows when to leave the stage, because no one is indispensable.” 💕

“It is better to leave honorably than to remain until your glory begins to fade.” 💖

What is the theme of this story? 💕

Many of us are like Adamma. We sometimes place more importance on material things and outward recognition than on ourselves and our true purpose. 💖 Life happens in stages, and we have every right to enjoy each one. However, we must be wise enough to distinguish between needs and wants. There should always be a clear priority of needs over wants. 💕

In this present day and time, many parents raise their children in front of cameras. Children grow up with false popularity — with many people knowing them, yet without their understanding or consent. 💖 Some grow up mistaking fame for love, unable to experience unconditional love at home.

At times, parents use their children to correct their own past mistakes, turning them into content. I am not saying it is entirely wrong to put your child out there; you have the right to make decisions for your children. 💕 However, my point is this: teach them the difference between priorities, necessities, and wants. Let them understand what truly matters. 💖

Remember…

No one is indispensable. Use your talents, skills, and knowledge to fulfill your needs and purpose. 💕 Avoid mistaking movement for progress, and stagnation for stillness. Whatever you set your mind to do, do it with all your might. Listen You beautiful flower, always remember old age. 💖

They say the fall of a yellow leaf is a sign to the green ones. Use your time, energy, and knowledge wisely to achieve your life goals. 💕

I remain your friend and brother,
Maazi Onuora Obodoechi 💖