Religion, in its various forms, can often act as a subtle but powerful prison for the mind and soul. As Jesus aptly put it, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.” Yet, ironically, only a small fraction of people truly think for themselves. Most are content to follow without questioning, and even fewer analyze the beliefs they hold dear.
Imagine this: the structures that we build around our faiths, whether Christianity, Islam, or any other religion, can become walls that confine rather than liberate. Just like the Israelites in Egypt, who built the very cities that entrapped them, we often find ourselves constructing mental and emotional barriers that limit our understanding and growth.
Why do we stay in this prison?
Sometimes, it’s the comfort of familiarity—the garlic and onions of Egypt, so to speak—that keeps us bound. We fear stepping into the unknown, even if it promises freedom and a better life.
In Nigeria and across Africa, religion holds a particularly tight grip. Many are so entrenched that they resist any attempt at liberation. Even when someone offers a new perspective or challenges the status quo, they’re met with hostility, much like a prisoner attacking their would-be liberator.
Liberation:
Freedom begins with awareness and a willingness to question. It starts with understanding that true faith should empower, not confine. When we learn to critically engage with our beliefs, we pave the way for personal growth and spiritual freedom.
My own life is a testament to this journey. I’ve seen my children prosper abroad, free from the limitations that would have constrained them here. I’ve invested in their education and future, ensuring they have the tools to succeed on their own terms.
In conclusion, let us break free from the prisons we’ve unknowingly built. Let us embrace knowledge, truth, and the courage to challenge conventional wisdom. Only then can we truly claim our freedom.
God bless you.
