July 1, 2021 – Osasu Oviawe

Today, I reflected on a quote by Tallulah Bankhead, graciously shared in the “3-2-1 Thursday” newsletter by James Clear.

“If I had to live my life again, I’d make the same mistakes, only sooner.”

It resonated with me, but I ultimately realized I would take out the “only sooner”.

My mistakes have been perfectly placed in time to maximize my learning. I would neither change the experience nor the timing. Even in writing these words, some mistakes stand in front of me, judging my conviction. But I am convinced I would not have it any other way.

It is never easy to live with the crosses from poor choices, but heavy loads are easier to carry when the are firmly held.

The quote made me remember quite a number of mistakes. Many of them brought smiles to my face, but there was no smile when I was going through them.

I am thankful for newsletters from beautiful minds that choose to share.

I remember the first time a cousin featured in a movie. His screen time was not even up to a second, yet we celebrated like he was the main character. We analysed that short screen time like it was the whole movie. I do not even remember what the movie was about, but I remember his role.

I also remember how I waited to see his name on the ascending credits at the end of the movie. It was the only name that mattered.

We pay attention to what we care about, and it becomes our prevailing reality.

Now, when I watch a movie, I always look out for the people in the background. Someone is celebrating that appearance somewhere in the world. That one second screen time is someone’s source of untold joy and pride.

When the credits at the end of the movie hurry up, someone cannot wait to see their name or the name of a loved one. Even when it is planted in a mosaic of other names, the name that is important to you stands out.

The leading and supporting roles in movies matter, but with a little reflection, you realise that all roles matter. It does not matter whether you appreciate all roles or not. Someone is celebrating a part of the movie you did not even notice. Someone is celebrating a role you do not even know exists.

This reality is true for life. Not everyone is the main character, but everyone is important to someone and celebrated by someone. Which is why the least you can do is respect everyone.

– Osasu Oviawe

Day: July 1, 2021

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