By Otunba (Dr) Abdulflail Abayomi Odunowo
One of the greatest mistakes we make in life is measuring people by where they are today. The person who appears insignificant now may someday sit at a table where your name is being discussed. The junior colleague you barely notice may become an influential decision-maker. Someone struggling today may become the person capable of opening an opportunity that qualifications, money or influence alone cannot secure.
Life changes positions without seeking our permission. That is why character matters most when dealing with people from whom we expect nothing.
Treat the driver with the same dignity you give the executive. Respect the assistant as much as the person occupying the big office. Value old friends even when your journeys have taken different directions. Never allow temporary success, disagreement, political differences, business disputes or social status to make you unnecessarily destroy human connections.
You do not have to remain close to everyone. Some relationships must end. Some friendships will naturally fade. Sometimes principles require us to walk separate paths.
But separation does not require humiliation.
Disagreement does not require disrespect.
And moving forward does not require destroying the dignity of those we leave behind.
Our greatest opportunities often travel through people. Someone remembers your integrity. Someone mentions your name in a room you could not enter. Someone recommends you when you are not present to speak for yourself.
And sometimes, the person who does this is someone you never imagined would matter.
Build bridges wherever honour permits. Preserve goodwill wherever possible. Treat people well not merely because you may need them someday, but because dignity should never depend on status.
Life has a remarkable way of changing the seating arrangement. The person standing outside today may be sitting at the head of the table tomorrow.
Leave people with a reason to remember you well.
Signed Otunba (Dr) Abdulflail Abayomi Odunowo.
National President SCN.
SpeakUp Collective Nigeria.
