Year: 2013

The Woman and Lime

Last Updated on 24/12/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

Last month, I had a kind of facial rash which I am yet to give a name. Maybe I would have to come up with a diagnosis for it soon. Initially, I thought it could be some of those pimples that do visit me when they want and leave without  traces when they are done hanging around. My guess was wrong because these I-dont -know-the-name-rashes actually did come to stay.

Over the week, they gradually built up and covered my forehead. I was worried about them and tried some anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory creams; Nixoderm, Skineal but none came to my rescue, although I didn’t use any of  them for a long time being that I needed something that could act very fast. Yeah, I needed my face intact as soon as possible.

On one occasion, I was in the bus and was thinking about trying out natural remedies than trying all these creams I didn’t find to be of much help to my case. I recalled lots of cases where I have seen or heard people said they used this or that on their faces and how effective it was for them. As I was about getting off the bus, a woman sitting before me dragged me back.

‘Do you know the green small lime?’ she asked.  ‘Lime? yes, I know lime’ I nodded at same time. ‘Use it on your face.’ I thanked her and left. Fortunately, I met her in the next couple of minutes at a bus stop, she then came closer and said to me that her daughter once had such bumps and lime was her redeemer. She was talking and demonstrating something which I didn’t understand clearly. As you can see it was that bad  which was the reason she called them ‘bumps’.

Limes

I was convinced I have gotten a remedy at last because earlier while I was in the former bus I contemplated using lime but wondered if it was going to be very toxic for my skin. But  now, my fears are been driven far away and it was more like a revelation. All I did was to browse for facts about it and I was in. I bought limes the same day.

Day two on lime therapy, am yet to see an effect and was going to panic again before my companion the previous day said I should scrub my face with it. The woman was demonstrating I should get the lime, cut into two halves and scrub my face with it. Oh! was that what she meant.I only heard lime and that was it for me, I used cotton wool to apply it on my face like I saw on the internet. Okay then, noted.

I followed the instruction the next time and my face could tell that lime really hurts. It does! I did it morning and night and a spotted a tremendous effect. In space of three days my face was good to go.

I learnt lots of facts about not breaking the facial skin by certain creams and hot water and how to use honey to wash it in order to nourish it. Honey makes the face feel so smooth, you just feel it. Lemon is very good too, its similar to lime but lime is stronger. I read a lot about the face now and am enjoying every bit of the natural remedies.

Let me tell you about my situation, the rashes I had were: a bit reddish, some spread out, some in clusters, had blunt pustules, sometimes itchy and hurts. At least, I knew it has gone past pimples. Hey! hope you are not thinking of any particular diagnosis for me right now? Well, my face is back now.

That Woman was a God-sent to me because I and lime are now buddies.

I would encourage anyone with some face rashes that seem not to be responding to creams to try LIME. It is very effective and acts quickly too.

P.S. I was meant to write this earlier before now to ensure there will be lots of smooth and pretty faces this festive period. Pardon me for that. Nevertheless, we all need good looks at all times.

Seasons greetings!

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Your Legacy Lives on, Mandela.

Last Updated on 06/12/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

Mandela

I recall those days in school when we sang a song that tells the story of Mandela and apartheid in South Africa. We chanted lots of words among them were – nepotism, tribalism- and the rest of them. In reality, most of us loved this bit because of the rhyme not that we necessarily understood what they truly meant at that time.

Over the years,  I have read lots of his works and how he fought for what he believed in. I admired his courage. In my opinion, his strength and character are out of this world. When asked who a rare gem is, I would simply say it was Mandela.

Nelson and Winnie Mandela the day he was freed. 
Below is a list of some of his inspiring and lifetime quotes:
  • “If I had my time over I would do the same again. So would any man who dares call himself a man.
  • “I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.” 
  • “Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.”
  •  “A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of.”
  •  “Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
  •  “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
  •  “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
  • “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
  •  “Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.”
  •  “Lead from the back — and let others believe they are in front.”
  • “Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
  •  “I hate race discrimination most intensely and in all its manifestations. I have fought it all during my life; I fight it now, and will do so until the end of my days.”
  •  “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.”
  • “Without democracy there cannot be peace.”
  • “We are fighting for a society where people will cease thinking in terms of colour.” 
  • “When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace.”  
  • “Reconciliation means working together to correct the legacy of past injustice.” “I can rest only for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not yet ended.” 
  • “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
  • “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.”
  • “Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.” 
  • “When people are determined they can overcome anything.”
The list is endless. There is a particular one; not mentioned above that I found very powerful. According to him, if he had come out of prison with so much hatred and bitterness he would have still be in prison. I found that very interesting because I think it has a deep meaning and shows that he had a very good heart and was a wise man. 
In addition, when I read the speech on his trial in 1964, I was surprised how he ended such a lengthy and well-structured write-up by saying  ”It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die”. That reminded me of a biblical verse where Jesus said, Father if it is your will let this cup pass me by- during His time of temptations. Making such a statement and standing by it during his 27years in prison and afterwards, shows the content of his character. Unbelievable, how he called for reconciliation even when his own people were willing to fight, he was not influenced and stood for justice and truth. And he achieved them. He had a large heart which all and sundry benefited from. He brought justice to his people and made all Blacks proud.

In my eyes, Mandela is a saint. Despite suffering from tuberculosis, he was still the hero and man of the people. 

He was a blessing to this generation and those to come. Rest in the bosom of the Lord Madiba; where there will be absolute peace and love, Amen. Your legacy lives on.

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What’s going on?

Last Updated on 27/11/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

Photo culled from the internet

I have actually seen lots of beggars and some homeless people but there was something about that woman I couldn’t just place. In fact, there is a particular man that do lie under the shades of trees and flowers on a corner in my area, although I have not seen him for sometime since winter arrived, I hope he has found a better place to lay his head at night.

So, it was a very cold day and I was rushing to a function but all of a sudden I was stopped by a woman; who at first was speaking a language I didn’t understand. I looked at her and she went on for about a minute or so before I was able to hear hunger and money. As she talked, the little child she was holding was busy playing and smiling.

Unfortunately, I had only few coins with me and handed them over to her and she mumbled words that sounded like she was thanking me or something close to that. Although my mind was occupied by other activities I couldn’t help but think about this woman and the small boy. 
I have seen lots of beggars but why it seems to be very rampant now is what I don’t understand, even in this unbearable weather. 
Later in the day, I discussed it with a colleague and he said some cultures simply like begging and can’t stay away from it. He added that some couple of years ago, some women carrying drugged children were seen on trains begging for money. That as a matter of fact, times have changed for good. No doubt he was right but I was of the opinion that when people look relatively fit it is better they find themselves a job;be it a menial one, as long as it brings them some quid rather than wandering the streets begging for money.
The rate at which beggars are seen on the streets of London now are very alarming. If you see one today, the next day it increases to three or more. Does it all boil down to hard economy?
What’s going on? 
Meanwhile, I recall a friend telling me the other day that when a haggard man begged her for money in an eatery she simply told him to choose something and she paid for him. That way she made sure he didn’t spend her money on purchasing some cigarettes or booze. At least, she provided him with a meal, which made a difference. 
Well, we should try in our own little ways to help people. That little could mean so much to them. 

Have A Word With The Man At The Counter.

Last Updated on 09/11/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

An elderly man in his mid-eighties arrived happily to his younger friends house. His friend who has been expecting him was quite surprised when he saw how excited he looked on his arrival. He hugged him and went off to make him a cup of tea because the weather was chilly.

‘I have been worried about you and how fast you were going to make it?’ He told him, fully cognizant of the fact that his friend can be somewhat forgetful, at times. Besides, he had a meeting to attend in the next few hours so, it was nice he made it on time too.

The elderly man smiled. ‘You are not going to believe what happened. ‘I entered the train without a travel ticket and was lucky there were no checks, I passed unnoticed.’

‘Oh! You did?’ His friend almost screamed covering his mouth…they both laughed. Now, he knows why his friend is kind of overexcited since he outsmarted some folks out there. They haven’t seen each other in a very long time and only talk on the phone though they chatted like the phone talks never existed. Later on, it was time for him to leave for the meeting in order to make it on time. However, he wanted to make sure his friend at least, pays for his ticket this time.

On getting to the station, the queue was so long and the ticket fees were saying different things ranging form £20- £500. Obviously, he didn’t have that much time to wait for him but to leave as soon as he can.

How much are you going to pay, he asked him. ‘Don’t worry, am not looking at any of that- referring to the the fares. I will speak with the Man at the counter, when it gets to my turn, ‘ the old man replied. His friend patted him on the back and left though he was worried about him.

Later in the night, he got a phone call from his friend telling him how wonderful his trip turned out to be. He said that after having a word with the man at the counter, he was able to arrange a £20 ticket for him; which was a first class and he was served a bottle of champagne. In addition, when he got to his destination, one of the staff followed him and called a taxi for him as well. What more can he ask for! He was all smiles as he narrated it all it his friend.

They both laughed and he was pleased to know his friend was happy and safe at last.

I guess it is always good to speak with the Man at the counter irrespective of the expected outcome or what the World tells us. 

Anyone can be favoured, with God there is no favourite.

You can Do A Lot ‘On-Your -Own’ Through Him Who Gives You Strength.

Last Updated on 01/11/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

There are times that people who we know quite well seem to do things that tends to put us on the edge and all of a sudden we begin to question a whole lot of things.

It is okay to keep reminding ourselves that no one is perfect not minding the fact that we are still able to find that one person whom we simply choose over others.

While I was chatting with a friend the other day, she sounded really worried and said a couple of things about her partner. She has a plan of how things can be made better and not that he is not willing to accept her idea but it seems not to be very convenient for him now. She complained bitterly. I tried to reason with her but I still made her see reasons with the guy too.

 ‘You can see he is busy with some other things now, at the meantime let him be.  It is not like he is rejecting your idea.’

Why are you this disturbed? I asked because she was furious and that got me worried about them both. Well, we had a nice chat and she was calm and felt better afterwards.

It would be nice of us if we continually evoke that initial passion we had before embarking on anything because it does not only motivates us but also keeps us on our toes as well. When you know that deep down you love someone, don’t cross yourself. Yes, be reasonable but that does not mean that it is going to be very rosy at all times. Love, they say endures all things that is why some people will seem to hurt you severally and you find yourself forgiving them, even before they apologize whereas same acts will be totally not tolerated with other people.

Try and develop a positive way of seeing people and things they do. It really helps and encourages a healthy lifestyle. Bearing a grudge is very bad because no matter how you mask it, it still finds its way and reflects in ones character. You might think that you are doing well and not showing whatever it was but people close to you can tell you act a bit different.

I would encourage discussing it, expressing exactly how you feel in the words that make you feelings or concerns well expressed. You have the right to be angry. There is no formulae in these things, think responsibly and do things your way. When you think the low-and-understanding voice is not working you can try out the high-angry voice, what matters is that at the end of the day you still go back to the normal.

Look at it this way, if you cannot have a quality chat with that very person whats the point going to talk all that through with another. You know them well and should be able to figure out when it is suitable to engage them in such conversations. Off course, you cant just initiate talk you tag ‘serious’ anytime and hope to get a useful response.

Always go for what is suitable for you. For instance, some people might like to chat after dinner time while some early in the morning. You don’t go and wake someone up at midnight because you were told or have read somewhere that midnight talk is the ultimate. Maybe, it was for the writer or for most people they carried out research on at that time but the truth is ‘we are all unique creatures’ some generalised findings cannot be applicable to all at same time. Don’t forget that some people don’t even sleep before that time while some about few minutes before 12, so are you going to wake them up? It’s either they babble first then talk, or later you get a warning for such sleep disturbance. Dozing while talk is going on can equally be achieved with that. I hope I was able make my point clear enough.

When something goes wrong and you still want to be with that person and they also want you, try to let them know how you feel. That’s your life and you make decisions based on what you think you two have been through or what you feel for them. However, when you simply go and offload the ‘problem’ to someone you might get a contradictory advice. Some individuals can probe and dig out some past and unresolved problems and put life into them. Believe me, it happens while others would help you deal with it in a better and reasonable way. Both categories of people do exist, beware of the former except you have loaded your gun and only need help with the trigger.

You can simply try asking yourself questions like, why is this that, why is that this, if I do this…that happens,  if I do that…what could happen? You can make a chart for them if need be.  You never can tell, it might help you solve certain issues and minimise times spent in consulting others. Besides, some times people tell us things we already know, though it is not usually the case. Always try your best and leave the rest.

When you learn to see good in people, things can only get better and better but when you do the opposite, even the tiniest fault that can easily be ignored by others will be magnified ten-folds before you.

NB
I actually struggled to write this without mentioning God a couple of times. Always put Him first in all you do.

Ease off.

Last Updated on 24/10/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

I am sending these stuffs your way to put a smile on your cute face and also make you feel less stressed in a very busy day. 

Please guys, you all should try and be ‘this’ successful so that we;the-successful-women-and-of-course-your-missing-ribs would be very pleased and blessed to have you. Oh! what a better place the world would be. In fact, if this were to be how terms are been defined in schools am pretty sure academic will be so much fun. 
Okada Man, didn’t you know what Gov. Fashola said or did not say before your carried her? Please Madam do not go down because obviously you know the law more than him. He actually should have an extension to make you more comfortable. 

Hahaha! Despite your score you still spell ‘dady’.With that POP leg? Please be on the watch-out. Hey you! Poor boy, 0/10? I pray you live to tell your own story. You might as well hold it properly because ‘dady’ might come from behind.

Dear Teacher, please I want more of you. Do you mind turning a bit to know what one of your products is doing on the board? Rather than allow other pupils watch him fill the whole gaps with ‘that’. Well, maybe the boy is smart and can simply put things together instinctively. Grammar made it easy!
I guess there is always a way out than get stuck. ——–> Take the other route! Ah! Don’t get it twisted, it could have different meanings depending on how you look at it. 

Cheers.

He Is Always With You.

Last Updated on 14/10/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

Faith in God.
There is always a reason for everything that happens. Many times we worry ourselves and wonder why things are not as smooth as we want them to be.

Maybe, we simply like troubling ourselves because certain things we encounter are beyond our human understanding.

Most times, we feel we are abandoned by the Creator forgetting that He is ever faithful to His people. He never abandons his own.

We are all important to Him be it in our joys, sorrows and in bitterness. At any given time, He is fighting our battles for us, if only we can put all our hope and trust in Him. He will not let us down.

Even in our most difficult moments, he is making way for us. He needs us to know that we are safe in His hands remembering that He alone is the one who neither sleeps nor slumbers. He who was nailed to the cross knows our pain because he actually lived and knows what pain feels like better than us.

His words shall come to pass. 

HIV Infection Does Not Spell Death.

Last Updated on 01/12/2017 by Vivien Ayinotu

I am writing this post in regards to the previous one. There were many biased responses and questions from people. Well, I have always liked discussing or writing on HIV and related topics, so that was the kind of go-ahead I have always waited for to write again. Don’t worry it’s not going to be an easy-read.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a special kind of virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(AIDS). AIDS is a condition where progressive failure of the immune system allows life-threatening opportunistic infections and cancers to thrive.

HIV infection occurs when there is transfer of an already contaminated blood, semen, vaginal fluid, pre-ejaculate, or breast milk between people. Within these body fluids, HIV is present as both free virus particles and virus within infected immune cells. Hence, extreme care should be taken in all procedures or acts that entails coming in contact with any of those fluids.

HIV infects vital cells in the human immune system such as helper T cells (specifically CD4+ T cells) and as a result leads to low levels of CD4+ T cells. This occurs through a number of mechanisms including: apoptosis of uninfected bystander cells, direct viral killing of infected cells, and killing of infected CD4+T cells by CD8 cytotoxic lymphocytes that recognize infected cells. When CD4+ T cell numbers decline below a critical level, cell-mediated immunity is lost, and the body becomes progressively more susceptible to opportunistic infections.

Having known the different ways HIV can be transmitted it is equally important that we stay abreast with its preventive measures and stick to them. Always bear in mind that it can be contacted through different means.

Actually, amazes me is the stigmatization that comes with this condition. Obviously, when allowed to get to the stage of full blown AIDS, it gives one the ghost-like and lifeless image but a lot can be done to avoid that stage.

HIV testing is very important and should be done as often as possible. It always comes with counselling, which would look into ones health and sexual history including other important aspects as well.

Thanks to free medication which is now available for its management. I would encourage anyone who is affected to stick to their drug- take your drug judiciously. In the HIV clinic, prior to the commencement of the drug they are classes to ascertain that sufferers are fully aware of their condition and how to live positively with it and to take their drugs judiciously. It implies that they take their drugs for the rest of their lives just like in the cases of diabetes and hypertension.

However, early detection and prompt commencement of drug makes a great health difference. The condition has become quite common lately. It’s not written on anyone’s forehead but it is how they manage themselves that matters.

Meanwhile, I would like us all to treat everyone with equal respect. For some that loses much weight in a short time and feel lots more sick, it’s not just the condition that takes them that fast but the way we treat them and the already assumed perception they have. They feel like they are mere shadows of themselves while they are still living. I know it can be difficult for us to see these people differently but we should try and be the reason they smile and find the strength and more reasons to live. All we need to do is to make sure we are always safe while dealing with them. It’s neither airborne nor can be gotten by mere touch.

 

Thank Goodness!

Fortunately with proper antenatal clinic visits, infected mothers can give birth to HIV- negative babies. Awesome! Isn’t that great? I mean there are so many instances in life where innocent children become victims but here, there is hope for them.

Having cared for some affected individuals warms my heart. There was a time I cared for an infected man, who already was critically ill. Beside him, was always his kind-hearted pregnant wife, each time I came we prayd together. I couldn’t help but thought the woman, her hope, future and that of their unborn baby.
Finally, it is not like they have lost their personalities or no longer have a life, they still do and need love and affection like everyone else. Their situation should not be treated with so much isolation because I do not think they are guilty of a certain abominable crime. Anyone can be a victim.

True Love

Last Updated on 12/11/2017 by Vivien Ayinotu

Seeing is believing. 

She was very pleased with him and want to be his for the rest of her life. He loves her as well and didn’t in any way hide his feelings for her. Well, who wouldn’t? After nearly 10years of friendship and relationship.

A lot have been done to ensure that they spend the rest of their lives together. They have been very close and well known to each others relatives. With luck on their sides, both families consented to their union and can’t wait for them to cement their relationship. 
As usual, they went for blood test as required by their Rev. It happened to be that the lady’s HIV result was positive but it was not revealed to her out rightly.The counsellor called the Rev. who is also a good friend of the man and revealed to him the outcome of the tests. 
They all got worried and questioned what could be the fate of these two long time lovers. To add sugar to the injury, the lady was 2months pregnant for him. 
The young man was summoned to the hospital with a panel waiting for him. The counselling protocol was observed before and after the news was broken to him. To their disbelief, he said they do not know what they were saying and that come what may he is going to marry his bride to be as scheduled. 
The lady was sent to different places to redo the rest and confirmatory test as well before she was actually made to understand that she is a carrier while the husband isn’t. She couldn’t believe her situation and cried like her world has fallen apart. 
‘Have you told my husband to be?’ She asked. The counselor nodded. She screamed. Raising her hands to her head. ‘How can it be? Darkness have caught up with me in the broad daytime!’
‘What did he say? My heartthrob has abandoned me!’ 
‘He said he is still by your side and that he is going to go ahead with the marriage.’
In confusion, the lady said, ‘…and you think he means all of that… My God where are you?… I have not slept with any other man … I have been doing like I ought to… Where exactly have I gone wrong? Tell me… ‘
Elsewhere, people have been talking to the young man to enable him understand his situation and the implications of what he is about to do. After so much talks from Tom, Dick and Harry, he made them understand that if marrying her woman in the next few days means having HIV, he is willing to get that and that they are going to die happily. 
Most people were actually shocked to hear him say that. He went further to say that he has known her for a long time, have seen various versions of women and none could be equated to her girl. She is simply the only one meant for her and nothing will change that.  
The lady continue to ask herself if she was in dream and how long she going to last in it. He took her to the Rev. and to his relatives as well. To her greatest surprise, he has actually brought her so that can help him reassure her that he knows what he is saying and doing and means every bit of it. He could not come up with any other way of convincing her since she hardly chats other than crying the hell out of her life all the time. 
To the dismay of some relatives and friends, he married the woman of his dreams. Happily wedded in church. 
My thoughts
Some guys for-some-reasons-best-known-to-them would have simply danced to the tune of the songs people sang to their ears lately and abandon their HIV- infected and pregnant Girlfriend not knowing that there could be a possibility that they are equally infected but he could be in his window period.
Not that it is a very wonderful thing getting married to One who has the infection but based on the aforementioned circumstances it is not a bad idea. 
In my opinion, that guy is a hero because many people out there simply take pride in finding faults where there is none let alone when such a huge issue arises. 
Whatever you do, make sure it is for a good Cause, do it for love and for God. 
What will be will be. 

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Who Do You Tell Your Real Age?

Last Updated on 26/08/2013 by Vivien Ayinotu

We were all sitting and waiting for our turn in the clinic. As usual, everyone do mind their business while my eyes were glued to a little girl who was very active and could not sit at a place. She played with everything that was within her reach and later settled for drawing.

Funny enough, whenever our eyes met I smiled at her and she smiled back. Smart kid. She got me going till she eventually could do nothing else. She then said to her mother that she was tired and she was told to go to her pram and sit. She quietly went over to her pram and slept off within seconds. Kids are so lovely.

She was not the only one tired, I was too. The waiting time was damn too long. We were told they had only two doctors and lots of emergency in addition to the routine appointments.

A woman sitting about two seats away from me was called and moments later she came back. One of the receptionists went to her with some forms.

Which one is your real age? They bear different ages, the receptionist asked her. I was surprised to hear that. I was like –  how can someone have such age issues in their health documents?

As she left with the forms the woman called her back and said to her ‘no, it’s the other form.’ It was this time that I turned towards her direction and gave her a kind of woman-what -are-you-playing-at look.

Seriously, what happened to the saying about not having to lie to priests, doctors and lawyers. I am not going to go down the road about ‘women and age thing’. This is because lots of people(men and woman alike) do hide their real age for some reasons but please at certain times and to certain individuals, it is very important that we simply tell the truth for our own welfare.

Wait a minute, that saying should have been health personnel or doctors/nurses and not just doctors, you know? Anyway, that’s my honest opinion.