Growing up in Lagos, ‘Rush’ reiterates the characteristics of existence. From the moment of being awakened by the blaring alarm clock, or even the loud speaker of the Islam calling on its adherents for prayer, one is thrust into a world consumed by speed. Little or no attention is paid to how one navigates through the crowded streets, struggling to secure a seat in a commercial bus and striving to accomplish countless tasks. The sensations of urgency and restlessness cling to one’s bones like an unwelcome visitor, constantly urging one forward and forcing one to keep up.

Within this relentless pursuit, one discovers the extraordinary. The exhilaration of ‘Rush’ is a double-aged sword, thrumming with both terror and exhilaration. As one one becomes deep-necked into the myriads of uncertainty, one unearths facets of capabilities that lie dormant beneath the surface. When pushed to the limits, like the stirring of the Adrenaline, one unlocks the hidden reservoirs of strength, resilience and tenacity one never knew existed.

Imagine preparing for an examination, one’s dear sleep is slashed with a relentless effort of staying awake ‘to cover’… The rush beckons, tempting one to leap into the unknown with abandon. And there between the tremor of fear (of covering) and the exhilarating sensation of having an excellent result, lies the magic that fuels the spirits. Just then, one discovers that one can stay awake for 3,4,5 hours to cover.

Oh! You thought your day was too stressful for you to stay awake “to cover”?

It is in these pivotal moments one seizes the opportunity to transcend one’s own limitations.

Amidst the chaos of rush, there’s a quiet realisation that it comes with a price. The constant and relentless effort of progress bulldozes through the delicacy of our own wellbeing. The weight of expectations presses upon our shoulders, denying one of its sense of self and leaving one to gasp for respite. In this collective endeavour to keep up with the whirlwind of life, it is possible to lose sight of one’s authenticity, trading the pursuit of purpose for the addiction of speed.

A piece of advice!

As the world rushes by, it is vital to seek moments that slow down the hands of time, where the madness subsides and clarity emerges. Pause to listen to the whispers of your heart reconnect to your own rhythm. In the symphony of chaos, find your own unique tune and let it carry you forward with purpose.

Notably, within the relentless pursuit, we rise and evolve, discovering areas we never knew existed. Embrace the tumultuous dance but don’t forget to pause, breathe and Reclaim the essence of who you are amidst the whirlwind of ‘Rush’.