“It is better to bear the yoke when you are young.” Recently, a 63-year-old man asked me how I have managed to acquire so much knowledge and wisdom in life. I acknowledged that it’s by the grace of God, but I also shared with him the importance of starting early in life.
Starting Early: The Key to Wisdom and Knowledge
From a young age, I was driven by a thirst for knowledge. While my peers were busy building their LP collections (remember those records?), I was busy reading old Newsweek and Time magazines. For me, those magazines were my LPs—my Long Term Plans. I devoured works by Tolstoy, Alex Haley, and many other authors, and I spent a significant amount of money buying second-hand books. My “library” was more important than my wardrobe.
Sacrificing for the Future:
While my mates were simulating the lives of “big boys,” I was dissimulating with my wife. I knew that the sacrifices I made when I was younger would enable me to live a fulfilling life in old age. I am not very strong, and I hate stress, so I did things I did not love and stressed myself when I was younger. This way, I can now live the lifestyle I love and reduce stress in my old age.
Building Your Future:
When you are young, resist the temptation to follow trends. Instead, focus on building your future. When the trends have expired, you will become the sensation. Don’t wait for extra time or a penalty shootout in life. Set your goalposts early, score your goals, and win the match of your life early so you can enjoy the game at your own pace.
Your Life, Your Game:
Remember, you are not in competition with anybody. It’s your game. Set the rules, be your referee, and score your goals. Living your life according to the rules of others, instead of your own design and designation, is the greatest prison. Tragically, the prison of life has no fences or gates—it’s in your mind.
Planning for the Future:
I started early to see and plan for the future. By God’s grace, I have been able to live a life that aligns with my vision and aspirations. The grace of God has been awesome, and I thank Jesus for guiding me every step of the way.
Conclusion:
As the Bible says, “It is better to bear the yoke when you are young.” Start early, make the necessary sacrifices, and build a future that allows you to live the life you love. God’s grace will always be with you, guiding and supporting you.
Thank you for joining me today. Stay blessed and keep building your future!
God bless you all.
