Mr. Benson, a kind and serious consular officer at the U.S. embassy, adjusted his glasses as the next traveler stepped forward. A young man, Tayo, stood confidently with his documents in hand. He was from Nigeria and wanted to study medicine in the United States.
“Good morning, sir,” Tayo greeted politely.
“Good morning,” Mr. Benson replied. “Why do you want to study in the U.S.? Why not stay in your country? There are many schools in Nigeria.”
Tayo smiled but understood this was a serious question. “Sir, I understand, but I need to study in the U.S., not just want to. There’s a big difference between a need and a want.”
Mr. Benson raised his eyebrows. “Oh? Explain that to me.”
Tayo took a deep breath. “A want is something you desire but can live without, like a fancy car or a big house. But a need is something you cannot live without—it’s essential. Sir, I need to study medicine in the U.S. for three important reasons.”
Mr. Benson nodded, signaling him to continue.
“First, the hospitals in Nigeria, including my father’s small clinic, face many challenges. We don’t have enough skilled doctors or advanced medical tools. Studying medicine in the U.S. will teach me how to use modern equipment and solve medical problems effectively. I want to bring those skills back to my country to help.”
Mr. Benson leaned forward, listening intently.
“Second,” Tayo continued, “our country struggles with diseases like malaria and typhoid. Many people, especially in rural areas, don’t have access to proper care. I need to learn the best medical practices so I can save lives. This isn’t just about me—it’s about helping my people.”
“That’s very noble,” Mr. Benson admitted. “What’s your third reason?”
Tayo’s voice softened. “Lastly, my father’s clinic is struggling. Patients come, but sometimes we don’t have the right medicine or knowledge to treat them. I need to study in the U.S. to gain the skills to run the clinic better and make it a place of hope. Sir, it’s not just about me wanting to leave my country. It’s about me needing to make a difference.”
Mr. Benson sat back in his chair, thinking carefully. “Tayo, I see your point. You’re saying this isn’t just a personal desire, but a mission to solve bigger problems.”
“Yes, sir,” Tayo said firmly. “I need to do this for my family, my country, and my continent. It’s more than just a dream—it’s my purpose.”
After a long pause, Mr. Benson smiled. “Tayo, I believe you. Your passion is clear. Good luck with your studies—and your mission.”
Tayo’s face lit up with gratitude. “Thank you, sir. I promise I won’t let you down.”
And with that, Tayo stepped out of the embassy, ready to begin his journey to make a real difference in the world.
LESSONS LEARNT
Listen, until you prioritize your needs over your wants, your mission might feel impossible to achieve.
A want is something you wish for, but you can live without it. A need, however, is something you cannot do without. Until you focus on what you truly need and keep working hard to achieve it, you may struggle to fulfill your purpose.
Your needs are not just about you—they’re about helping others too.
When you go after your needs, you’re meeting the needs of yourself, your people, and even your country. This is what makes a person truly successful.
Every need is connected to another need, like pieces of a puzzle that must come together. Wants, on the other hand, are often just desires that don’t lead to lasting fulfillment.
Lesson Learned
Listen, until you prioritize your needs over your wants, your mission might feel impossible to achieve.
A want is something you wish for, but you can live without it. A need, however, is something you cannot do without. Until you focus on what you truly need and keep working hard to achieve it, you may struggle to fulfill your purpose.
Your needs are not just about you—they’re about helping others too.
When you go after your needs, you’re meeting the needs of yourself, your people, and even your country. This is what makes a person truly successful.
Every need is connected to another need, like pieces of a puzzle that must come together. Wants, on the other hand, are often just desires that don’t lead to lasting fulfillment.
Remember, your mission in life is tied to the needs you fulfill, not just the wants you chase.
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