Only time tells when what you wish to become is actualized. This is a short story from behind. I made a decision, and that's what kept me where I am today
When I was in senior secondary 1 (SS1), I joined a football club at the national stadium, and after two days of training, I was listed among those going for a competition (That was in 2001). I was surprised. I'm just joining and training twice with the club and I was given the number 7 jersey. It was a happy moment for me
When I got home, I informed my dad about it and he gave me two options
Do you want to go to school
Do you want to become a footballer
Choose one, and I will support you. I want you to be focused.
This kept me thinking. I can't leave school because I want to play soccer. And besides, I can do both. But he doesn't want to hear the word "doing both". He wants one
After many thoughts, I told him I would prefer to go to school. He then concluded.
I will try my best to make you comfortable with your education, but I don't want to see you at the stadium again.
That was the end of my football career.
I knew if I had chosen football, he would have supported me with everything he had. I trust him for that, but I was afraid of being a dropout at that early stage. My coach traced me to my school and asked why I've not been coming to the training and I explained everything to him. He was sad. He offered to follow me to my dad and talk to him but I refused because I know the kind of dad I had. We've concluded the matter so there's no point going back. My coach left unhappy
My dad was not opportune to watch our final game but his friend came.
After the success, and the party
He said, son, I would have allowed you to do both.
It's late dad. Life goes on.
I learned a great lesson from this
If your child is not unserious with whatever he/she is doing, try to support them.
I was one of the best in my school, and football activities never retarded my performance. That's what parents must look out for. My dad is late, but I'm glad he tried all he could to make me a responsible person and citizen
I'm not a footballer, but I'm who I am even though I'm still struggling to stand well on my feet.
