I am your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. One of the keys to enjoying life as you grow older is learning to care less about unnecessary things. When I was younger, like most people, I cared about my looks, my dressing, and how others perceived me. These days, I don’t care who likes or dislikes me. Life is too short to live for the approval of others.
A young man once told me after I preached that he used to dislike me but changed his mind after hearing me speak. His opinion never mattered, and neither should the opinions of others define your life. The question is: how have the people you’re trying to impress contributed to your life? Often, the answer is nothing.
The World Moves On Without You
On New Year’s Day in New Orleans, a man drove a truck into a crowd, killing several people and injuring many others. While tragic, what struck me was how quickly life went on. People soon focused on the next event—the Sugar Bowl, Carnival, or Super Bowl. Even the mayor’s excuses couldn’t bring back the dead. Life moved on.
This is a harsh truth: even your closest family members will move on without you. Your spouse, your children, your friends—all will continue their lives if you’re no longer around. That’s why it’s crucial to learn to move on without others. Don’t tie your destiny to anyone’s opinions or actions.
Dare to Walk Alone
Many of the achievements I’ve made in life are because I dared to walk alone. There were times my wife disagreed with my decisions, but I followed what God told me, and the results speak for themselves. If I had listened to certain people, I would have been stuck in obscurity.
People who haven’t achieved much in life often have the loudest opinions. They criticize and try to mold you into their limited perspective. For example, someone once criticized my YouTube channel, saying I should buy better equipment. Yet, my channel has over 24,000 subscribers and 11 million views, with my simple setup. It’s not about flashy tools; it’s about content and purpose.
If I had listened to such critics, I wouldn’t have achieved what I have today. The same applies to you: don’t let the opinions of others dictate your path. Focus on what works for you and produces results.
Rebuke Negative Judgments
The Bible says, “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against you in judgment, you shall condemn.” When people pass unfair verdicts on your life, it’s your responsibility to rebuke them and render their words ineffective.
Criticism is often a sign that you’re making progress. Sambalats and Tobiahs will always exist, but their opinions don’t define your destiny. As you grow older, understand this: you don’t need to impress anyone. Live with a clear vision and purpose, and let your results speak for themselves.
Be Prepared for Life’s Realities
Friends will come and go. Even ten close friends won’t remain friends for ten years unless they’re fools who never grow. People will move on without you; therefore, you must learn to move on without them. Don’t waste time trying to be nice or fit into other people’s molds. Live boldly, with clarity and determination.
If you can embrace this mindset, you’ll enjoy life—especially in your later years. I’m not interested in being “humble” in a way that translates to timidity. I am aggressive about my purpose and unapologetically proud of my achievements.
Remember, the world will move on without you, but you have the power to shape your journey. Be prepared and keep moving forward.
God bless you.
