THE QUIET POWER OF SMALL ACTS_ BY SUMAILA ISAH UMAISHA

You don't have to be a celebrity or a wealthy person to make a difference in the lives of others. No matter how ordinary you think you are or how little you believe you have, your contributions can go a long way in the service of humanity.

Don't let the word 'humanity' intimidate you into believing that you can do nothing until you have 'made it' in life. Helping humanity simply means helping another person with whatever you have, however little. Sometimes, it is nothing more than doing your job conscientiously and with compassion. When you touch the life of one person, you have, in a sense, touched humanity itself. Just as our thoughts quietly influence us and those around us, our actions create ripples that extend far beyond what we can see, shaping lives and, ultimately, society.

My secondary school literature teacher, Mr. Francis Okoh, of blessed memory, remains a shining example of how seemingly small acts can have an enduring impact on humanity. Though he held only an NCE qualification, his command of literature was extraordinary. He was an encyclopedia of literary knowledge. He had the rare gift of breaking down the most difficult poems into simple, digestible ideas. Under his guidance, even Wole Soyinka's works felt approachable and enjoyable. We learned eagerly because he taught patiently, passionately, and with remarkable clarity.

After graduating from the Teachers' College, I became a classroom teacher briefly myself. And every time I stood before my students, I remembered Mr. Okoh and his unique teaching style. I consciously tried to emulate his dedication and simplicity. Throughout my days in the teaching profession, I remained faithful to that commitment.

Today, I feel deeply honoured whenever I come across messages from my former students on social media and other platforms expressing their appreciation for my teaching, making remarks that tend to compare me to the great teacher who inspired me.

Thank you, Mr. Francis Okoh. It is exactly ten years since you departed this world, yet your legacy lives on. You are still very much alive in the countless lives you touched, the minds you shaped, and the teachers you inspired. That is the true meaning of helping humanity.

© Sumaila Isah Umaisha

- Nigeria.