Kwadwo Sarpong writes: Yes, I sound like a wounded lion. Truth hurts, but facts cannot be hidden. Not all the clapping you hear is done with hands.
Kwadwo Sarpong writes:
Yes, I sound like a wounded lion. Truth hurts, but facts cannot be hidden. Not all the clapping you hear is done with hands.
In Ghanaian society – especially within Asante culture – families are often unsupportive when one chooses an unconventional path. Excessive expectations breed disappointment, and disappointment slowly turns into pain. That is why it is wise to train yourself early not to expect too much from anyone.
Pain is universal, yet only a few truly understand it. Most people judge what they have never endured. Everyone can talk about childbirth, but only those who have given birth truly understand that pain. In the same way, life sometimes reveals a cruel truth: the person you took bullets for was the one holding the gun.
Many people are imprisoned by offence, bitterness, and unforgiveness, states that inevitably lead to destruction. In this life, no one is obligated to help us. Help comes from willingness, not entitlement. Still, we must be careful not to isolate ourselves completely. There comes a moment when reality hits, and you realise that people matter – whether you have everything or nothing. That truth is important.
Thinking communally is not a weakness; it is how life should be lived. Entitled people exist everywhere – We must navigate that terrain daily. The Supreme Deity blesses one so that one may become a blessing to many. As much as possible, be the reason someone wakes up, smiles, and says, “Thank you, God.” Do not harbour excessive bitterness. Ubuntu.
A rigid sense of identity often limits people from infinite possibilities. I have always said that I belong to no religion, prayer group, tribe, or nationality – because these are human constructs shaped by interests and limitations. I say this while I still have nothing; let no one say tomorrow that it is pride born from success.
The rejection and pain inflicted on me are what shaped me. Sometimes, constant cheering and support weaken us. Pain and rejection reveal who we truly are and what we are capable of becoming. The greater the resistance, the greater the crown. Instead of hating those who hurt you, love them-they formed you through the pain they caused.
Growth is never a solitary journey. It is fueled by family love and strengthened by community – a truth shared across cultures. Disappointments in young adulthood do not erase the years of breastfeeding, sleepless nights, and care that carried you through childhood illnesses.
Even in the harshest conditions, such as life on the streets, the kindness of a stranger – a fruit, a coin reminds us of our shared humanity. These quiet acts of grace are immeasurable and should not be overshadowed by moments when help was withheld.
A man’s enemies may indeed come from his own household; nothing is new under the sun. Still, we must not put everyone in the same basket. Somewhere, there is a child who admires you from a distance. They keep their distance out of fear of victimisation, fear of being seen. Observe them.
Sometimes, family abandons you because they, too, are overwhelmed by their own struggles and responsibilities. Having witnessed this, I hold no grudges. Often, you must endure the worst to become the best version of yourself. If help had come early, perhaps the passion would never have been built.
Lack of support can become fuel to prove everyone wrong.
Yet, there are moments when a small push or helping hand can unlock greatness. If God has helped you rise, do not repeat the cycle of neglect. It takes grace and humility to break inherited patterns of thinking.
Many family members love you when you are poor and dependent; some even take advantage of your vulnerability. When success comes, they claim you. When you are broke, they distance themselves. Harsh as it is, this truth remains: society rarely respects the person who cannot provide for themselves.
E-mail: Kwadwosarpong277@yahoo.com
COMMENTS