This is the weight the constant low-grade hum of stress that becomes the soundtrack to your life it’s exhausting and strange and quiet truthly I’ve stumbled upon in the midst of all this being broke is also a brutal the unflinching teacher. It has forced me to understand the true difference between a want and a need in a way no self-help book ever could, I need shelter of my own with food and power to keep the lights on sometimes I want takeout a new shirt and even the latest gadget, that distinction has become crystal clear carved into my mindset not by choice but by necessity.
It has taught me a deep almost radical appreciation for the small things and The genuine joy of finding a one thousand naira bill in a coat pocket from last harmattan feels like winning a miniature lottery. A home-cooked meal shared with a friend who understands and doesn’t judge your situation becomes a feast which costs nothing, can feel more valuable than a expensive night out.
Most importantly it has shown me my own resilience When you can’t throw money at a problem you have to throw creativity, grit, and patience at it instead. It has made me to learn how to fix things myself . I learn to cooking incredible meals from the most basic ingredients as i find joy in connection rather than consumption.
So when I say “I’m broke,” I’m not just talking about my bank account I’m talking about the tiredness behind my eyes I’m talking about the pride that keeps me from asking for help even when I probably should, I’m talking about the fierce gratitude I feel for the roof over my head.
It’s a confession of struggle yes. But it’s also a silent testament to the fact that I’m still here figuring it out learning the hard lessons and finding a strength I never knew I had. The wallet might be empty but in some weird way, I’m still building wealth. Just not the kind you can spend at the moment.
Image created by META AI
