RETAINING YOUR VALUE

It is no longer news that the environment we find 
ourselves in play a vital role in our formation and in our decision making process albeit this can be consciously or unconsciously.

I remember hating the concept of "fa" which is popularly used among the people of Kwara. The word "fa" is usually added to the end of every sentence. It is like a necessary ingredient and the funniest part is that it is used by both the educated and non-educated. I really cannot pinpoint the origin or the specific history behind it but I do know you cannot escape hearing it from an indigene of Kwara state or someone who's lived there for some couple of years.

As luck would have it, my secondary school education was in Kwara state and I was careful enough not to pick the "fa" syndrome but I doubt if one could help it. It was not evident in my speech for the first two years, however, I became a pro in it as time went by. 

The shock on my sister's face when she heard me say "fa" on one of the holidays could not be quantified. In fact she did not fail to express her irritation at any slight opportunity. 

When analysed properly, it is glaring that I hated the concept but unconsciously picked it up and imbibed it into my speech because of the environment I find myself in. Also, 'fa' is a norm widely accepted in the Kwara society, however, the concept meet with stiff resistance in Lagos society.

How then do I strike a balance between both environment without one hindering or affecting the other?

This explains what happens in some settings; official or unofficial. You find yourself in the midst of those who share different values and you are saddled with the responsibility of not joining and remaining straight, faithful and truthful to your course.

But can one actually overcome the influence of the environment on one's value?

Maybe or maybe not. Although it subconsciously eats deep like a parasite would to its host.

I am quite sure you must have been wondering why I keep hammering on environment these past few days. You will find out soon.

Do you have a particular habit you unconsciously picked up from the environment you found yourself and willing to share? Kindly leave a comment in the comment box.

Till Cynthia appears again, 

Mobola