We’re nearing the end of uncovering #Unshakable truths hidden in the alphabet, and today, we focus on the letter R: R is for retirement.

First, a quick throwback. Last week’s column featured a cat that inherited an entire estate, sparking drama and leaving many of you wondering how it all ended. While I will keep you guessing for now, this week’s story revolves around a chicken — and, of course, the concept of preparing for the future.

We all have dreams of what life might look like down the road. While destiny unfolds in its own mysterious way, it’s fair to say that a bit of luck combined with focused preparation can nudge fate in the right direction. My inspiration for this week’s column is my mama —fondly dubbed the Queen of Oba (a town in Anambra State, Nigeria).

Mama was born in the UK but spent much of her childhood in Nigeria. Later, she made a bold decision to leave everything familiar to return to the UK, ensuring I could navigate university life as a young adult. Her journey was far from easy, but it paved the way for a fulfilling career spanning over 25 years. Mama became a respected expert in special needs education, building a legacy that’s as inspiring as it is #unshakable.

Today, she is retired, and I can confidently say she has earned every ounce of her current peace and freedom.

Now, she divides her time between the UK and Nigeria, living the life she once dreamed of and prayed for. In the UK, her days are filled with doting on her six-and-a-half grandchildren (the “half” referring to one still on the way), engaging in charity work, and spending quality time with friends and family. When she’s in Oba, she turns her focus to growing crops, tending to her poultry, and dedicating her time to the village children. She gathers these kids to introduce them to books, toys, and opportunities that are not part of their standard school curriculum. It is here, in her village life, that the story of the chickens comes to life.

Among Mama’s feathered companions was a guinea fowl named Brexit. True to his name, he was a flight risk, often escaping in search of adventure. His escapades left his frazzled wife behind, noisily protesting his absence.

Then, there was Captain Jarvis, the lead cockerel who bravely gave his life battling a snake. His untimely demise led to the rise of Captain Jarvis Junior (CJJ), a young cockerel who inherited the responsibility of leading the flock.

CJJ, however, had some quirks. Unlike his predecessor, who crowed at the break of dawn, CJJ was known to crow at odd hours—sometimes late at night or in the middle of the day. Mama, ever patient, excused his behaviour, saying his father’s early death likely left little time for proper training.

One stormy morning, Mama woke up to silence and worried that CJJ had been swept away by the storm. At 7 a.m., the family WhatsApp group buzzed with a triumphant “Hurrah!”—CJJ had crowed, signalling that all was well with the world once more.

As I read her message, I couldn’t help but reflect on the stark contrast between her life and mine. While she savoured her retirement, worrying about her chickens and gardening, I was neck-deep in the chaos of a 9-to-5 job, juggling mortgage payments, energy bills, and raising my own children. I teasingly replied, “Lucky you! Some of us are stuck worrying about soaring mortgage interest rates!” But beneath the humour, I was struck by the enormity of what Mama had accomplished. Her #unshakable resilience, sacrifices, and hard work had given her the freedom to live a life of her choosing. She had earned the right to decide where to wake up each day, to dedicate her time to village children, and yes, even to fuss over chickens. Today, Captain Jarvis Junior thrives, the village kids are gaining access to life – changing opportunities, and the UK remains a comfortable home for her in parallel. Mama’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of planning and working toward a future that aligns with our dreams. Retirement is not just about an end — it’s about creating a new chapter, one where your hard work and sacrifices bloom into the life you always imagined.

So, I ask you: What does your retirement plan look like? How are you ensuring that your later years are filled with purpose, comfort, and joy? Retirement may feel like a distant dream, but the steps we take today can make all the difference. While destiny plays its role, a little planning and effort can nudge fortune in our favour, paving the way for a life of #unshakable peace and fulfilment.

Until next week — take care, and start thinking about the future you want to create.

Sally Chiwuzie
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IG Handle: @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind