I Am Not Where I Was Yesterday
By Osa
Chapter 1: Humble Beginnings
My name is Osa, and my story begins in Urhionigbe Village, a small, vibrant community where life was simple, yet full of possibilities. I attended primary school there, completing grades one through six. My childhood was filled with curiosity and the joy of learning, but I knew my journey wouldn’t end in the village.
When I was old enough, I moved to Benin City to continue my education. It was there, at Army of Christ Secondary School, that my secondary school journey began. Life felt like a grand adventure. I found myself part of an inseparable trio, forming lifelong friendships with Monday and Osaigbovo. Together, we were unstoppable.
After school, I often rode my bicycle to visit their homes. The three of us would cycle back to my house, laughing and dreaming about the future. Life was carefree until the day came for us to part ways. I began high school at Lina Comprehensive School, where I discovered my love for physics and chemistry. My dream was born: I would become an engineer.
Chapter 2: The Turning Point
In 2003, at the age of 17, my life took a dramatic turn. I left Nigeria and moved to the United States, settling in New York City. Adjusting to a new culture, a new environment, and a new education system was no small task. I enrolled in Morris High School and graduated in 2005 with honors, earning an award as the best mathematics student among my peers.
That same year, I got my first job as a security officer at J&O Security Services. I’ll never forget the feeling of holding my first paycheck. I was so excited that I bought new shoes and threw away the boxes to hide them from my family. I worked tirelessly, pulling 84 hours a week, but I was young and unsure of how to manage my newfound independence.
Chapter 3: Tragedy Strikes
Not long after, I moved out of my family’s home and shared an apartment with a friend named Saturday. One day, my life changed forever.
I remember meeting Saturday one evening. He was with two young boys and a girl, laughing and drinking. I was offered the chance to spend the night with the girl, but I declined. It didn’t feel right—I wasn’t raised that way.
The next morning, Saturday didn’t show up for work. His supervisor called me, concerned. I tried to reach him, but there was no answer. Worried, I rushed home from class. What I found still haunts me: Saturday lying in a pool of blood.
I screamed for help, my heart racing as I pressed my chest against his, hoping he was still alive. But it was too late. Saturday was gone. I’d never seen death so close before. The police came, and I was taken in for questioning to clear my name. That day, I learned the fragility of life and the weight of choices.
Chapter 4: Dreams Derailed
In 2006, I enrolled at Hostos Community College to pursue my dream of becoming an engineer. However, living in New York City came with its challenges. I was advised to switch my focus to accounting, as it was more practical for my environment. I was young and impressionable, so I listened, setting aside my true passion.
Deep down, I knew engineering was my calling, but I lacked the confidence to pursue it in a world that seemed determined to steer me elsewhere.
Chapter 5: Lessons Learned
Looking back, my journey has been filled with moments of joy, heartbreak, and growth. From the quiet days in Urhionigbe Village to the chaos of New York City, I’ve learned that life is unpredictable, and every choice carries weight.
I’ve learned to cherish friendships, honor my values, and persevere through pain. I’ve learned that dreams should never be abandoned, no matter how hard the road may seem.
Most importantly, I’ve learned that I am not where I was yesterday. My past doesn’t define me; it fuels me to reach higher, dream bigger, and become the person I’m meant to be.
Conclusion
Osa’s story is a powerful reminder that life is a journey, full of ups and downs. It’s about making choices, facing challenges, and never giving up on your dreams. No matter where you start, you have the power to shape your future.
