Writers 
"Never you walk into rooms with the thought that you don't belong there"
It still echoes till this day and I don't think I'll ever forget it.
.
.
.
I remember, I was almost a teenager, probably 11 years plus, in Primary 5 and was selected to represent my school at an inter-school debate competition.
Preparations were in ernest and only me could vouch for myself that I was not cråzy with the way I rehearsed even on the road.
On the day of this competition, we all looked so sharp; ironed uniforms, shiny black shoes that showed our reflections to the teeth and well combed hair (we weren't allowed to make hair).
I was the second speaker, so my Chief speaker, Bashirat, was from Primary 6. We did final rehearsals and headed out for the location; InnerCity Mission, Lagos.
We got there and my goodness, the awe!
For students coming from a school with over 50 people in a room without a working fan, looking into spacious and air-conditioned classrooms was indeed a sight.
We were led to the hall and of course, our light fabric uniforms weren't so warm, we almost froze and me that any small cold, my nose became itchy and in no time, I started sneezing profusely.
Our coordinating Teacher looked really worried and asked if the AC on our side could be turned off or at least reduced.
The other schools weren't helping matters at all, I mentioned how 'sharp' we were looking right? We weren't even close but hey, we looked presentable.
The competition started and the room became hot with tension and that anticipatory intensity such rooms hold.
After the first round, things became extra tensed and I did not know when I muttered, "I don't think we can win this thing sef. How will we beat people in their own territory?"
The next thing that followed was a tight pinch. I looked at the hand and saw Bashirat looking at me too seriously,
" Careful. You are thinking out loud and they are not positive thoughts. If they didn't prepare well, they will get beaten, their territory or not. Never you walk into rooms with the thought that you don't belong there. That you are here means it was meant for you".
At that moment, I didn't quite understand it but I got the memo.
That day, we left with the second position but I had also just gotten a reminder that will stay with me and help me through in different stages of my life.
On occasions when I doubt my purpose and relevance, at the beginning of seasons I'm afraid to venture into or even physically, being in the same room with peers who look or feel ahead, I'd rather stay and learn with my head up than shrink and run away.
So, to whom it may concern...
Mbok, stop comparing or downplaying your relevance and worth just because an obstacle looks bigger.
Never walk into a room thinking that you don't belong there.
#stori_stella
#storytelling
