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Opinions of Wednesday, 27 July 2016

Columnist: Counselor Frank Adofoli

When my teacher became my student

This life is full of mystery, full of the unknown, nobody knows what tomorrow brings, and this is why you must be careful how you treat people; your actions and your words.

I believe we don't meet people by accident, people don't come into our lives for anything, there is a purpose for such meetings. It's either a blessing or lesson for you but in whichever way, count it all joy; it is for your good, your development, your wellbeing.

What I don't understand is when people try to take advantage of such meetings. Once some people feel you need their help and can’t do without it, they try to abuse you for the help they give you.

No matter how rich a man is, he or she is poor in one or two areas. By extending your hands to bless others, God can bless you. Helping others who need your help makes you a candidate for blessing.

Some people can just look at your condition, appearance and reject you but once they see you progressing without them, that's when they want you back. It’s an error to think people will end up the way they started. If for nothing at all, watch reproduction; how a sperm can develop into the man or woman you are now. Job 8:7 (NLV) says "And even if your beginning was small, your end will be very great."

You should never play with people's life, their gifting, calling, or feelings; you may win the game today but bear in mind you risk losing the person for life.

I remember my days at the College of Education as a Tutor; I was amazed when I saw my one class teacher but this time as a student in the new class I was teaching. This was the man who taught me basic things in life, made me love school, and here he was as my student.

The beautiful thing was, he was so happy and proud to see me at that height. And for a matter of fact, I treated him as a VIP student. He was always telling his mate: “that smart teacher was my student; I taught him in class one."

Assuming this man mistreated me in the past, what would have happened now when he saw me? The truth is, the person you mistreat today may be the same person you will need tomorrow.

As you go about your duties today, don't forget you are a stranger here, to get to your destination, you need others’ help, and others need yours too. Learn not to be hard on people, carry a heart that never hates, a smile that never fades, a touch that never hurts.

"Last, of all, you must share the same thoughts and the same feelings. Love each other with a kind heart and with a mind that has no pride"- 1 Peter 3:8 (NLV)

Please share with your friends, someone out there needs this.