The one thing that sometimes makes me think about that is the people we don't think of now, are the people we want to believe in tomorrow. Life's way is a bit strange, and the tale of Nigerian music star Davido and DJ Humility has a lesson for everyone, on judgement, opportunity and destiny.
The story says that DJ Humility had met Davido prior to his emergence as today's internationally recognized superstar. In those days, Davido wasn't looking the part of the superstar that he would become. He didn't look put-together, and so based on that initial encounter, DJ Humility felt it was best not to help him.
At the moment, it might have been a normal choice. Arguably, people make judgements every day on the basis of their dress, speech and demeanor. Success is often a matter of looking successful. We want them to appear successful, rich and professional. But greatness doesn't necessarily come in a fancy outfit or fancy setting.
Davido has gone on to prove it.
His journey in the Nigerian music scene was one of constant effort and dedication to carve a niche for himself from the outset. With his talent, determination and passion, he went beyond Nigeria and into the international arena. He soon made his name one of the most famous entertainers in Africa and made millions of fans around the world.
In retrospect, the meeting with DJ Humility wasn't just about a refusal to assist another. It was an important lesson to learn on how opportunities can be lost when assessing others by what they show on the outside.
Suppose you meet a man or woman who appears like a regular human being right now yet wears an extraordinary dream. Think of your situation where you are not going to give that person an opportunity because he doesn't look successful. That same person could later go on to become a business leader, musician, politician, inventor or someone whose name is known throughout the world.
This does not imply we can't be careful about who we trust. It is essential to be wise and cautious. But, it is not the same to be careful and completely to ignore a person due to their appearance.
The most often mentioned examples of the rich and famous beginning with nothing are numerous. They have been rejected, humiliated, poor, and at times, no one believed in them. Where they differed from others was their determination to continue to move forward in spite of those difficulties.
The story also conveys the message that no one can know the future of another person. A person who is struggling today, may not be struggling forever. An insignificant person may have an undiscovered gift.
So we all need to learn to respect people, regardless of how they appear or how they are at the moment. Sometimes a simple opportunity, encouraging word or helping hand is worth more than we realize.
The lesson to be learned: don't be fooled by the way someone looks on the outside as to their capabilities on the inside.
Today you may not know who it is you are standing with. Sometimes the person you're ignoring is the person you'll be envying success on.
Writers