OBSERVER'S CORNER

I vividly recall a captivating tale that was shared with me several years ago. Its impact remains as strong as ever as if the words were spoken just today. This remarkable story revolves around an individual who was enlightened about the paramount importance of resilience and hope in achieving success, all while acknowledging the indispensable role of hard work. The narrative struck a profound chord within me when I stumbled upon the account of a man who, against all odds, persevered to reach the pinnacle of academic achievement. Life dealt him a bitter blow when he tragically lost the primary breadwinner of his family, thrusting him into the responsibility of undertaking various menial jobs at a tender age to survive and support his younger siblings. Just as he embarked on the arduous journey towards establishing one of the largest import-export companies in the country, naysayers emerged, attempting to dissuade him by claiming it would not yield profitability. The ultimate blow came ...

Love is an absolute blessing when it is received and shared by those who truly cherish you. Let me tell you, I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend a function of someone I've admired from afar. And let me tell you, the kind words that were expressed about this person pushed me to dig deeper and find out more about them. And boy, was I blown away! Sure, there have been some controversies surrounding this person's personality, but let's not forget the incredible impact he has had on his home country. He has been instrumental in creating numerous monuments that stand tall and proud, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. That's no small feat, my friends! But here's the thing, love is not just about expressing it to those closest to us. It's about extending that love to everyone, even those outside our immediate circles. And let me tell you, people have been so incredibly generous that it has translated into tangible improvements in healthcar...

I never could have imagined how much I would come to adore festivals and special occasions. It's all because of the incredible significance I've attached to them. In the past, I never really saw them as enjoyable when I was invited to events because I didn't feel that connection. But recently, something has changed within me, and now I am eagerly embracing every single moment of life as it unfolds. It all started when I met some amazing friends who made it their mission to bring me out of my shell, just like preparing the meat of a tortoise. They helped me understand that these occasions and festivals aren't just about me, but about celebrating the people around me. Even if I'm not in the mood, I should make an effort to celebrate the achievements of others. This realization led me to develop an overwhelming love for Christmas. It's a time to reflect on the incredible salvation that God has bestowed upon humanity. Once I understood this, Christmas became so much...

Poem by Naa Doodua Doodu On an auspicious eve, a child was to be delivered, A mother in pain, meeting her firstborn with anticipation. Supernatural aid brought forth a child of Salvation. Our brother from a different mother, now from the same, Love shared with the righteous and a sinner's heart. Through baptism, a new name, prophet, priest, and king. Parents prepare for the birth of our big brother each year, Santa Claus surprises with gifts, dreams while we sleep. Christmas, an expectation beyond life, a new birth joyfully celebrated.

The moment I succumbed to the scorching flames of her love, I never fathomed the depths of regret that would consume me. I was ensnared, entangled in the web of her affection, impervious to any words or gestures that dared to pry my heart away from her captivating presence. And oh, the intoxicating fragrance that trailed in her wake, a bewitching aura that left me spellbound. Summoning every ounce of courage, I mustered the audacity to ask her out, akin to a hunter stalking elusive prey in the dense forest. Miraculously, my shot hit its mark, and my heart surrendered to a peaceful slumber. Her love was a tantalizing elixir, so potent that it ignited the flames of envy within my neighbors and friends. She lavished me with sweet words and tender massages, unabashedly displaying our affection in public, fueling the incessant gossip of our passionate love affair. Little did I know, this fairy tale romance would soon unravel. Initially, I believed that love could not be bought with material...

How does one even begin to relate to someone who struggles to communicate with God but finds it effortless to chat with their fellow humans? It's utterly perplexing to me. Perhaps it's because I'm a bit old-fashioned. Some individuals seem to go out of their way to complicate everything, all in an attempt to deceive others into associating with them. And then some cunningly work their way into the good graces of authority figures, which I find incredibly bizarre. What on earth do they hope to gain from all of this? Absolutely nothing, I tell you! I vividly recall an encounter I had with a friend a few months back. I fearlessly broached a topic that others were too afraid to discuss. It was evident that my friend was uncomfortable, but the truth needed to be spoken. I simply couldn't stand by and watch him tarnish the reputation of a fraternity we had sworn to protect. If I had done so, God himself would not have forgiven me. Have you ever experienced the frustration of ...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu 800 years of birth, A people growing in togetherness, love, and care. Despite small differences, they use them as stepping stones, With a Seraphic father paving the way, and Christ Jesus at the center, nothing destroys their unity. They face challenges together, guided by prayer, charity, and the fear of God. Their charity brings abundance despite physical poverty, Love for nature and obedience to the Gospel strengthen them, For with God, they possess everything in spirit, rich despite material scarcity. May the footsteps they follow, intercede and guide, May they always walk in the path of Christ, in love and pride.

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu In shadows cast by bonds now torn, Once kindred spirits, now forlorn. Through trials faced, together we strode, A friendship cherished, a precious abode. Encouraging whispers in the darkest of nights, False apologies masking our inner fights. Lovers in perception, though friends in truth, Building bridges of dreams, a delicate sleuth. In our minds, an unbreakable tether, Yet a small rift caused a stormy weather. Outside your door, night after night, Silence echoed love, taking flight. Attempting to mend shattered pieces, Each effort stung, like a thousand creases. Bloodied fingers, picking up debris, Once allies, now estranged, a painful decree. From best friends to bitter enemies, A tale spun from shared memories. In the wreckage, echoes of what used to be, Yet in healing, a chance for self-discovery.

Can anyone enlighten me on the profound meaning of Alabanza? I've tirelessly searched for answers, only to stumble upon the notion of praise. I fervently hope that this interpretation holds. Ever since I laid eyes on the exquisitely crafted Alabanza program from the Prince of Peace Catholic Church, I've been consumed by curiosity, yearning to uncover the source of its boundless joy. It wasn't until I experienced the recent eighth edition with a fresh perspective that I finally comprehended why it has always been hailed as a pinnacle of excellence. I've attended countless choral festivals in my lifetime, yet I hesitate to label this event as such; it transcends the boundaries of a mere choral fest and becomes a grand celebration of music. The melodies and harmonies that resonated through the air touched the depths of my soul. The healing power embedded within each note was so profound that I found myself eagerly seeking out any other music concerts that crossed my path. ...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu In the realm of anticipation, a man awaits, Filled with hope, at the journey's gates. Zeal propels each step, a mission to fulfill, To be embraced warmly, atop the hill. Trust is vested in Jesus, unwavering and true, A steadfast companion in all that we pursue. Amidst opposition, a beacon of light, Our hope of glory, in the darkest night. Why place trust in mortal hands, When Jesus beside us firmly stands? Strength renewed in the wait, wings unfurled, Soar like eagles, face an inviting world. In running, weariness shall not cling, In walking, strength will forever spring. Trust this man with all your might, Witness greatness unfolds, bathed in His light.

The song "Into the Future" by Stonebwoy has profoundly impacted me, resonating with my Christian beliefs and igniting a powerful connection. It serves as a reminder that when I place my trust in God, He will never abandon me, even when I reach the end of my journey. This promise has been steadfastly upheld by God in my life, and I firmly believe it applies to everyone. One particular verse struck me deeply: "Give me your love, for you know it is safe." This line encapsulates the realization that true security lies in entrusting our love solely to God. Relying on fallible human beings can often lead to disappointment and frustration. However, when we place our faith in God, we are shielded from any negative experiences. It is an unwavering truth that in all circumstances, we must place our trust in God. As I gaze into the future, I am filled with a profound sense of hope and anticipation. I can envision the boundless goodness of God and His abundant love not only for...

I first encountered him from a distance, but his remarkable sense of humor and composed demeanor immediately captured my attention. Intrigued, I decided to delve deeper into discovering the true essence of this individual. To my astonishment, he proved to be just as genuine and authentic in person as he appeared through his online interactions. Our time together was truly delightful, and when I casually mentioned him to others, assuming they were unfamiliar with him, I was met with a surprising twist of events that surpassed even my wildest imagination. It turns out that this man's impact on those around him extended far beyond what I had initially perceived. Despite his relatively short time on this earth, his ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds serves as a testament to the fact that no one can thrive in isolation. To truly find fulfillment in life, one must embrace the act of sharing love and compassion with others. My brief encounter with him opened my eye...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu I am patient, With me, you can journey through life's essence. I prepare you for a future, where heights are immense, Like an eagle learning to fly, I'm your guidance. I let you unfurl your wings, ever so slowly, Then teach you to soar, from low to lofty. The beauty lies in how I make you strong, Like the eagle, never losing hope for long. So, wait patiently, let me be your guide, Together we'll reach heights, side by side.

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a humble step. It is not easy to embark on something new when the outcome is uncertain. It can be challenging to envision a bright future for a new project, especially for those who lack experience. However, in life, we are always optimistic about our endeavors. This remarkable journey commenced when a group of individuals recognized the need to infuse music into a growing church, providing its members with soul-soothing songs capable of touching even the most hardened hearts. Initiating such a venture with novices, particularly in the realm of music, posed significant challenges. These individuals possessed only the ability to produce sounds from their mouths, lacking even the basic knowledge of musical keys. Yet, through divine providence, that initial seed has flourished into a magnificent tree, bearing succulent fruits that nourish millions of people. Today, this humble mustard seed has become a sanctuary for countless individuals, of...

Oh, let me tell you a little story about the fascinating nature of human beings. You see, if you feed an animal for a few days, it will remember your kindness for a long time. It's like a tattoo on their little animal minds. But oh boy, when you do something to endanger them, they'll develop a hostile attitude towards you that will last for ages. Talk about holding a grudge! Now, let's talk about humans. They're a whole different breed, I tell you. They have this incredible ability to remember only the highest bidder. All those little important things you do for them? Pfft, gone with the wind! As one wise Ghanaian president once said, we humans forget easily. Unless, of course, someone does something that hurts us to the core. Then, oh boy, we remember that forever! I have this vivid memory from my childhood. I had this close friend, you know, the kind you share all your worries and secrets with. Well, little did I know that those secrets would end up being spread aroun...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu Why feign concern when you don't truly care? Why do you enter and exit as whims take you there? My mental health wavers on this tumultuous ride, They appear, then vanish like an illusive tide. Enough of this circus, it's tearing me apart, I'm trapped in the darkness, losing myself, and my heart. It attempts to summon the monster within, But I resist, not letting the darkness win. Those who stand by me when the beast seeks its way, And those I wish to care for, come what may, Should I abandon the caring few for the unknown? Or keep moving through life, toward hope, not overthrown. I fear self-destruction, letting the caring ones down, I'll endure, for this too shall pass, I won't wear a frown.

The choices we make today will determine the rewards we reap tomorrow. It's incredible to think that we hold all the power to shape our lives and pave the way for a fulfilling future. Life may not always be smooth sailing, but we can transform it into something truly beautiful, depending on the decisions we make. Lately, I've noticed a remarkable surge in the desire of young people to serve God in extraordinary ways. Let me tell you, these young individuals hold their destinies in their own hands, and with proper guidance and nurturing, they can truly experience the best that life has to offer. Extraordinary service to the Lord isn't limited to the confines of the altar; it extends to every aspect of life, including marriage. I've had the privilege of engaging with a few individuals who have shared their heartfelt aspirations. Their stories have left a profound impact on me. They yearn to be unique, to stand out from the crowd. Those who are married emphasize the import...

In the vast tapestry of existence, there comes a pivotal moment when the masses suddenly feign concern for your well-being. They gather around, pretending to be interested in your every move, desperate to know how you are navigating this thing called life. They want to determine if your life has transformed into a masterpiece or a chaotic mess. However, when you dare to share your thoughts and worries, only a select few bother to extend a helping hand. Ah, yes, the post-high school era, where people are excessively eager to pry into your academic pursuits. They pretend to care about your next step on the educational ladder, but let's be real, their interest lies solely in what they can gain from it. They believe that by offering their assistance, they will somehow reap immediate favors or future paybacks. It's reminiscent of that time when a person of influence asked a friend to join the army, only to reveal ulterior motives. Surprise, surprise, he wanted to squeeze some cash o...

Have you ever pondered the perplexing phenomenon of individuals who seem to be immune to advice? It's as if they possess an uncanny ability to know it all and be perpetually right. These folks are masters at justifying even the most heinous of actions, simply because they believe their every word and deed to be the ultimate truth. It's mind-boggling how they struggle to acknowledge their peculiar behavior, yet readily accept it when others exhibit the same quirks. Allow me to regale you with a tale from my own experience, a memory that remains etched in my mind like a vivid painting. Several years ago, I found myself in the company of a group of young individuals for a program. Among them was a member who possessed an uncanny knack for spotting inconsistencies in the actions of others. However, when the spotlight turned to him, suddenly those very same inconsistencies became invisible. My insatiable curiosity got the best of me, and I couldn't resist confronting him about h...

Poem by: Mawuena Quist In the room of ignominy have I shut the portal from praises. Left alone, the mirror on the wall stripped naked from all the pride. My face comforted in my palm I have left because my pride cannot be sublimed in this shame. Outside the chamber from sitting on the bed of roses. But here I am being suffocated from the pageant smell of dead mice. Running from ostensible affection and here am I resting on a couch waiting to be removed from my leg nail. The nail of self-gratification a deception of self-love claim incurred from the fake humans in the mind. Is no night but I have shut the door hoping for the victory of light. But I am going to die if I vanquish darkness since I am my darkness and I do not want to fail to prevail. What if morning comes since nothing lasts except change and so the morning light will end my life? Oh, I am rather on a train! Do I stay on it and reach my destination of death?  Or do I jump from it to meet my untimely peril? I have no cer...

I have heard some incredible stories about the enchanting scenes that unfold within seminaries, but let me tell you, this one was an absolute marvel. I was utterly astounded by what I witnessed. Just imagine this: an all-male choir, their voices resonating with such power and grace that they could rival the very angels themselves. Who would have ever thought, right? Most people assume that seminarians spend their days solely in prayer and indulging in meals, but let me assure you, there is so much more happening behind those sacred walls. I had the extraordinary opportunity to personally experience one of these musical events, and let me tell you, those who arrived with their innocent hearts left with an overwhelming sense of pure joy in their souls. The music that filled the air was like a sumptuous feast for the spirit. I was completely captivated, by witnessing people dance away their sorrows and worries. It was as if we had all been transported to a realm of pure magic, a blissful ...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu In the shadow of your memory, I weep, Your love, a treasure, in my heart, I keep. You left me, but not by your own design, Death's icy touch, a cruel and bitter sign. You promised to return from your journey afar, But fate's cruel hand, you couldn't par. Alone, I stand, left to fend and cope, In the darkness of despair, I struggle to find hope. They say, "Move on," but how can I let go? Your love and our memories, they continue to grow. I'll cherish every moment, every smile, every tear, For in my heart, your presence is always near. I long for your touch, your comforting embrace, To kiss away my tears, and see your smiling face. Though you're gone, your love forever will remain, In my heart, your presence, a soothing, gentle rain. I'll hold on to the memories, so precious and dear, As I navigate this world, filled with sorrow and fear. You'll always be a part of me, my guiding star above, In my heart, you'll forever b...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu Waking up to find you beside me warms my heart like never before, Your words of encouragement inspire me to explore. I cherish you dearly, for without you, life seems unclear, A day without your voice, and I'm lost in a world austere. I only want to adore you throughout all our days, My love for you deepens in countless ways. I want to share joy and sorrow, be your anchor when the skies are gray, This is the first time my heart has danced in such a way. You are my first love, a treasure so true, I never believed in love until I met you. I fell for you at first sight, your beauty took my breath away, Let me love you forever, in every moment, night and day.

Once , a priest shared some wise words with me: if you spend too much time with someone who constantly complains, you'll start complaining too, without even realizing it. It's a common human tendency, rooted in our nature since the time sin entered the world through our first parents, Adam and Eve. They shifted blame onto others, blaming the serpent for their actions. And so, we humans often struggle to accept our faults, instead choosing to point fingers at others for our mistakes. This tendency is prevalent in many aspects of our lives. For example, in Ghana, there's a popular saying among teachers: they are blamed for poor student performance, but when students excel, all the credit is given to the students themselves. It's a cycle that even students perpetuate, taking pride in their achievements but quick to blame others when things go wrong. But why do we do this? It's because we create our problems and then conveniently shift the blame onto others when things ...

It's mind-boggling how some folks wrap their heads around certain aspects of life. They're all too happy to receive a helping hand, but when it comes to lending one themselves, suddenly it's like pulling teeth. It's a real bummer to witness this kind of attitude from people who always want to be on the receiving end, but never want to step up to the plate. But fear not, my friends, for I recently had the pleasure of listening to a true legend. This individual possessed a personality so grand, it could make even the grumpiest of souls crack a smile. And you know what this wise sage had to say? Showing appreciation costs you absolutely zilch. Nada. Zero. Zippo. It's a simple act that can make a world of difference. This enlightened being opened my eyes to the importance of acknowledging the little things people do for us. No more getting lost in the abyss of self-centeredness, my friends. It's time to break free and embrace the joy that comes from expressing grati...

I was flabbergasted by the ridiculous charade we put on, pretending that everything is hunky-dory with our families when in reality, it's a hot mess. Being alone for a short period opened my eyes to the fact that ideas and reality are two completely different beasts. The cost of living was through the roof, forcing me to make sacrifices left and right just to afford the essentials. It made me realize the immense responsibility that falls on the shoulders of guardians and parents, constantly struggling to foot the bills. I learned the hard way how to manage limited resources and even when resources were abundant, the importance of being responsible and not making unnecessary demands. What I couldn't wrap my head around is why some people, after going through tough times, have this insatiable desire to live a life of luxury. They gladly accept the kindness and generosity of others without a second thought about how those generous souls earned the resources to support them. It bog...

Life always offers us the opportunity to choose what suits us best. Our choices define our personality and our personalities reveal who we truly are. We can either choose to live a phony life, deceiving everyone around us, or we can choose the opposite path. The people around us serve as a mirror, reflecting how we define ourselves and the standards we use to measure our worth. We are constantly bombarded with both positive and negative influences from our surroundings, but it is up to us to decide which ones we allow to shape us. The first time I heard these words, I didn't fully grasp their meaning until I had an encounter with a friend who spent an excessive amount of time pretending to have a lavish lifestyle, using public goods to convince others that he lived even more extravagantly at home. However, it turned out that he had no access to those things he boasted about when we were in the comfort of our own homes. This friend of mine is incredibly difficult to reach, yet his b...

Business moguls around the world have undoubtedly encountered the terms "First in, first out" and "Last in, first out." The latter is particularly prevalent among professionals and workers, except for those who are paid based on the number of hours they work, who adhere to the former. This way of life has become deeply ingrained in our society, infiltrating various aspects of our lives. Even when attending meetings, events, or appointments, these individuals expect to arrive late and leave as early as possible, disregarding the age-old adage that "the early bird catches the worm." I recently came across a friend who embodies this frustrating attitude. He consistently arrives late to work, yet is always eager to leave as soon as possible. On one occasion, he missed out on a well-deserved promotion, solely due to his chronic tardiness. Instead of taking responsibility for his own actions, he foolishly blames those around him, failing to recognize that his la...

Meeting someone and instantly connecting with them is a rare and precious experience. Such encounters can be life-changing, and I had the privilege of meeting such a person. From the moment I met him, I knew he was special. His warmth and genuine kindness radiated from him, and his smile had the power to brighten even the darkest days. He's not just a teacher; he's a father figure to me because of the many qualities that make him so much more than an educator. His guidance came into my life at the perfect moment when I needed it most. I remember overhearing someone say, "He's a great man," shortly after our first meeting. At the time, I didn't fully comprehend the depth of those words, but I soon discovered their truth through his actions. He became a steady presence in my life, offering a shoulder to cry on and sharing advice that has left an indelible mark on my character. His impact isn't unique to me; countless others he has taught and mentored have th...

I used to hear tales of trepidation surrounding those who wear smiles and bare their teeth, but I never fathomed that I would personally encounter such an individual. However, at some point in my life, I paid a visit to a close relative who, in every interaction, urged me to remain resolute in all my endeavors. Little did I know, these smiles were nothing but a facade. I was overjoyed when I received an invitation to stay with him and other relatives for a while. It was during this time that I came to realize that even the mightiest of creatures, like the lion, can don a smile before launching an attack on its prey. My astonishment knew no bounds when I discovered that this relative, who was revered by many as a paragon of spirituality, was not what he seemed. The shocks I experienced were unparalleled, surpassing even the capabilities of the most advanced shock absorbers in cars. He set the standard for everything and failed to appreciate anything unless it matched his status. He had ...

Relationships are truly fascinating, aren't they? Each encounter brings with it new revelations and the potential for something extraordinary. And let me tell you, there was a time in my life when I met someone who completely turned things around for me. It was a dramatic meeting, one that would forever change the course of my life. This man, oh, this man, he has become more than just a friend - he's family. You see, this incredible individual has been the backbone of not just a few individuals, but entire churches. It's mind-boggling, really. Some people believe that common interests or shared experiences bring people together, but this man has proven that it's all about selflessness and the need for brotherhood. He has sacrificed so much, not just for his own family, but for anyone who crosses his path. My first encounter with him was an absolute surprise. Little did I know that this surprise would continue to amaze me, time and time again. He constantly surprises me ...

At some point in my life, I had the privilege of connecting with a remarkable woman who initially seemed hesitant to form a close friendship. I believed that establishing a bond with her would be an insurmountable challenge, only to discover that she was an incredibly open-minded individual, someone with whom I could easily share my thoughts and experiences. Our encounter has evolved from me being a mere observer from afar to becoming a cherished friend, someone who consistently checks up on me despite having achieved nearly everything life has to offer. Imagine my astonishment when, on one occasion, she called out my name amidst a bustling crowd, eager to engage in a conversation about the path I was embarking on. Her encouragement and sisterly advice, coupled with unwavering support, proved invaluable as I navigated the journey of life. What many fail to realize about her is that she is always available to support young people in their endeavors. If one pays close attention, it becom...

Once, I bumped into this dude who was totally different from what I had heard about him. I never thought I'd end up sitting at a table with him, having deep conversations about life. He completely shattered my expectations and taught me that friendship doesn't care about age, it's all about genuinely wanting to learn from each other.  Our bond grew so strong that he started sharing his professional insights and strategies that led to his success. It was mind-blowing how, despite being rich and experienced, we talked like we were brothers. He was like a guiding light, always encouraging me to make a positive impact on society whenever I could.  Thanks to him, I got to meet his daughters, who were on their way to becoming badass lawyers. His unwavering support for others and his strong spirituality showed me how down-to-earth he was. It blew my mind that someone with so much life experience would seek advice from someone as inexperienced as me, especially when it came to life...

Poem by: Naa Doodua Doodu In search of answers, we wander without sight, Within, our thoughts engage in endless fight. How do we calm the storm within our minds, When doubts assail, leaving self-worth behind? Through trials faced, and battles we endure, Rejection's sting and abandonment obscure. Yet some stand firm, steadfast by our side, Walking with us through life's tumultuous tide. In darkest hours, when storms press us low, These rare companions help our spirits grow. Though scarce, these souls with hearts so true, Guide us with courage, a precious few. We pray to the heavens for strength and grace, Facing life's tempests, we find our place. This too shall pass, a steadfast decree, Through storms and trials, our spirits set free. search of answers, we wander without sight, Within, our thoughts engage in endless fight. How do we calm the storm within our minds, When doubts assail, leaving self-worth behind? Through trials faced, and battles we endure, Rejection's st...

The day started like any other, but little did I know that it would turn into a complete disaster. Looking back, I should have listened to my friend's advice and avoided that tempting bet. Desperation for some quick cash blinded me, and I brushed off his warnings as mere nonsense. Confident in my previous betting wins, I believed I had a foolproof strategy. I meticulously picked twenty teams and used my intricate permutation principle from high school to maximize my chances. My betting slip seemed like a guaranteed win to anyone who saw it. As the day progressed, I anxiously followed the progress of the bet from the comfort of my home. Everything seemed to be going smoothly, with every match going in my favor, except for one. However, that one match appeared to be a sure thing, so I excitedly called up a couple of friends, and we made plans to celebrate once I cashed out my winnings. We even started dreaming about how we would spend the money. However, just when I thought my victor...