LOH CONTEST #251: Living by the Values That Shape Me.

Hello distinguish hivers

When I look back at the choices I have made in life and the direction I continue to follow, I realize that certain values have consistently guided my steps. They are not just principles I read about somewhere but real lessons that life has taught me and they have kept me relevant in my field and in my circle of relationships. Out of all, three stand out strongly: Appreciation, Connection, and Forgiveness though I must say, other values like humility, honesty, and faith also play a big role in shaping me.

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The first is Appreciation. I have learned to never take people’s efforts for granted, no matter how small. Nobody owes us anything in this life. So whenever someone goes out of their way to help me whether it’s a kind word, a small favor, financial support, or even an introduction to someone I need to meet, I make it a point to appreciate it deeply. Over time, I have seen how this simple act has opened doors for me. Some people think appreciation is just for when you cannot do something for yourself, but I see it differently. Even if I could afford that bus fare, meal or buy that item, the fact that someone thought of me and offered it willingly makes me treasure the gesture. Appreciation makes people feel valued, and when people feel valued, they are more willing to trust, support, and even recommend you for bigger opportunities in the future. Beyond appreciating people, I have also learned to appreciate God. Many times, we are so quick to ask for more that we forget to thank Him for what He has already done. For me, gratitude to God is the foundation that keeps me grounded.

Appreciation, for me, is more than just an act, it’s a way of life. Even when it seems difficult, I have learned that appreciating God isn’t truly hard if one reflects on the little things. If I can recognize His goodness, then extending appreciation to people should come naturally.

Gratitude and appreciation have become values that shape my decisions, my relationships, and the way I see the world. I have realized that it’s not just about what I receive but also about what I give and that giving includes words of encouragement, genuine presence, and celebrating others wholeheartedly.

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The second value is Connection. Life is about people, and the people we meet are not by accident. From primary school to university, NYSC, work, or even random encounters, I have realized that each stage of life is intentionally designed to connect us with new people. These connections are like treasures, what I like to call wealth creation. We can’t do everything or know everything, but the right people in our circle give us access to doors we could never open alone. I always try to leave every place I have been with a door still open, so that even years later, I can return and still find that goodwill. The truth is, people remember how you made them feel. If you were valuable, supportive, or even just respectful, they will carry that impression of you forward. And in due time, it is often through people that God channels blessings and opportunities.

I believe in being intentional about the kind of people I connect with and the ones I call my friends. To me, friendship isn’t just about sharing space or time, but also about being a genuine supporter. It means being there to celebrate their little wins and their big wins, being their cheerleader when they need one, and making sure I acknowledge and honor their progress whenever the opportunity arises.

Living by these values reminds me daily that life isn’t only about striving for personal success but about lifting others, acknowledging their growth, and walking with them in love.

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The third is Forgiveness. This one is not always easy, and I admit it is the most challenging for me to practice consistently. People will offend you, sometimes deeply. But I have also come to see that just as people hurt me, I too have hurt others in one way or the other. If we all chose to cut ties with anyone who offends us, then we would all end up as enemies in this world. Forgiveness is the bridge that keeps relationships alive, whether with family, friends, colleagues, or even strangers. It doesn’t mean forgetting the wrong, but it means choosing not to let bitterness control your heart. Alongside forgiveness comes humility and honesty. Being humble has taught me to respect everyone, younger, older, rich, or poor because you never truly know what circle or value the other person carries. And honesty has helped me build trust with people, because once trust is broken, opportunities can be lost forever.

At the end of the day, I see these values, appreciation, connection, forgiveness, humility, honesty, and gratitude to God as pieces of a puzzle that work together to give life meaning. They are not just guiding my decisions, they are shaping my legacy. Because the way we honor people today, the way we build relationships, and the way we choose to forgive will all become the same way others will remember and honor us tomorrow.

They are the light that keeps me grounded and the compass that keeps me moving forward because life may not always be easy, and people may not always understand, but holding on to these core values makes the journey worth it. These values are my daily reminder that no matter what comes my way, I am becoming, I am growing, and I am living with meaning.

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Thank you so much for sharing this space with me and I will also love to hear from you, what do you think about my Core Values.

Until next time 🤗 Love and Light ❤️