By John Kariuki
Life has a way of testing even the strongest among us. It will push, pull, and stretch you to your limits. But as Dr. Ekrah Ndung’u, Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges, wisely puts it:
"Take a seat… sit quietly, observe, learn life, and detach."
When adversity strikes, many panic, react impulsively, or drown in emotions. But real wisdom lies in stillness. During tough times, give yourself 21 days of quiet. Just like Daniel’s prayer, use that time to watch and learn—see who steps up to help, who steps aside, and who claps at your downfall. That way, you don’t carry everyone to your next level.
Jesus had many followers when he performed miracles, but at the moment of his crucifixion, only John stayed close. And in his final moments, Jesus entrusted him with his mother—proof of how present and reliable he was. That’s the kind of people you need in your life. People who don’t just celebrate your highs but can also think for you, step in for you, and protect what matters most to you when you are down.
Life will bully you. It will throw challenges that will shake your confidence and push you to the edge. The higher you rise, the stronger the opposition. That’s why you must develop a thick skin to withstand criticism, a positive mindset to guard against negativity, and a solid support system because no one succeeds alone. But beyond all that, as Dr. Ndung’u reminds us:
"Have a good heart. Learn to forgive and forget, and you will know peace. Otherwise, life’s stress will add 30 years to your face, and before you know it, you’ll be talking to yourself like your grandmother. REFUSE that route!"
Adversity is also the best teacher of empathy. As a leader, going through hardships shapes how you listen, how you respond, and how you support others. It teaches you to lead with understanding and grace.
Silence, too, is a powerful weapon. Look at the late President Mwai Kibaki. In the 90s, he spent years in court defending his name but never uttered a word about any accusations against him. He let time and reputation do the work. Reputation has a way of recovering itself, and in politics, every publicity is good publicity.
The most important thing is to protect your sanity and emotional strength. Your next level demands a stronger, level-headed version of you. Sitting in a corner crying won’t change anything—tears solve nothing. One action is worth more than a thousand brilliant ideas.
"You’ll never be able to carpet the whole world to protect your feet, but you can wear slippers to shield them."
Translation? You can’t control everything, but you CAN control how you react. Protect your heart. Guard your peace. Choose your battles wisely.
Lean on God’s strength, embrace His peace, and move forward. Life’s challenges are not meant to break you; they are meant to shape you into the best version of yourself.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
Have a blessed day!
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