IT IS NEVER TO LATE TO MAKE A DECISION. I PASSED WAEC AT 39

IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO MAKE A DECISION

Destiny decisions can be painful. It might be hard. But not making a decision is a decision itself. In order to live a life of significance, we have to be hard on ourselves so as to become the blessing that will model excellence. There are millions that are suffering in silence, but your actions can be the solution. Sometimes it can be hard and can be painful, but remember where there is no pain there is no gain. It is because of this that we will share Mrs. Bademosi's story on how she made her life count.

I am excited to share this with the whole world. Not because I want to be popular, but to stimulate, inspire and encourage people with similar predicament never to give up. I sat on the edge of the sofa in my house in the late hours of one evening telling myself the truth and a queer hesitancy hung over me. As I sat in silence, I realized that my dreams awakened me to the consciousness of the world suitable for life. There were mixed feelings instigating my thinking telling me to quit, but I interrupted myself with optimistic proclamations saying 'I will make it.'

I'm Mrs. Funmi Bademosi-Adediran, an Ondo state indigene in Nigeria. I reside and work in the Centre of Excellence, Lagos state. I grew up under careful parenting with dreams and aspirations of becoming an exceptional performer. It was hard to navigate the rough terrain of life. At first, I attempted the West African Examination Council (WAEC) in 1984. It was really very tough for me. I attempted the exam again in 1985, but yet could not get a hedge over it. I proceeded to Bepo Secretariat Institute in Ibadan, Oyo state where I got my first Certificate in Secretariat Administration and then to Compute-rite Professional Institute in Lagos, to sharpen my shorthand and typewriting skills. Since I couldn't get to the higher institution, I planned leaving the country for overseas, but that also did not work out. Life was so cruel and unfavorable, the future looks dark and I had no more strength in me. Life looked frustrating and I eventually took a decision which led me into public service. I got married, gave birth to my children Deji and Damola. But deep within me, I know a gap still exists which I must fill up.

On this fateful day, I sat down and realized that my voice must be heard in Nigeria. My passion for NIGERIA influenced my thinking and suddenly my strength was restored. My eyes were opened and the future became clearer. I said to myself 'Yes! I can do it.' A thought came through; I realized that for me to be relevant to Nigeria I have to write my exams again. But I am 39 years. I had a strong witness within me that I could do it. It was so strong in my spirit that I was persuaded to go for it. Although many thoughts ran through my mind such as - 'can you stand the embarrassment of people seeing you in school uniform going for exams'? But they were dealt with by my strong will and determination. I eventually registered for the examination at Universal White Hall in Ogba Ijaiye, Lagos. It was a difficult moment putting on the uniform, communicating with the students and reading for the exams. But thanks to the proprietor and staff of the school for their encouragement. Talking of the uniform, I was skeptical about wearing it. However, I crossed the hurdle by putting on mufti from home and changing into the uniform when I get to the examination hall. I usually hide behind the building to change to the uniform before the examinations begins. That same year, I wrote my GCE at VETLAND School, Agege, Lagos. I passed excellently. And because I was working on something now and wouldn't tolerate any delay, I proceeded to the Lagos State University (LASU) to study Public Administration and I graduated from the school.

I am happy because I caught the truth early and realized that age is just a number and not a factor to be considered for success. After my first degree, I will enroll for my Master's Degree programme immediately to fulfill my purpose. I am happy with myself and want to appreciate my acquaintances for their contributions towards my educational advancement. My appreciation also goes to my colleagues at work for their support and cooperation. It's only God that has done it for me. And if I can go back to school at the age of 43 because of my dream, you too can do it.