Hi, my favorite food is tomato egg sauce with boiled yams.
When someone asks for an introduction, its just normal to start with our names first, right? Or maybe not. Or maybe its only because its a social norm to do so. Personally, I think its because it is the most important thing about you. Your name. So I'll give this another try.
Hi, my name is Matilda
That's not my only name, but i don't want to bore you with my full government name either. I'm Nigerian; Igbo by tribe, Catholic and a Psychology undergrad.
This is the most I've ever said when asked for an introduction, but of course i ought to do better.
My name is Matilda (said that earlier). I'm Nigerian (also said that earlier, lol). In Nigeria, there are three 3 major ethnic groups and I belong to third largest which is the Eastern part. I grew up in a family of seven; five siblings of which I am the first and both parents. Where I am from, being the first born automatically comes with some degree of responsibility and this has in some way shaped my personality.
** So, What kind of person am I?**
As a psychology student, I was taught personality is the totality of one's characters, beliefs and values. In easier words, personality is everything that makes you, you.
As a little girl, I was quite introverted, and smart too. I had a keen eye and curious mind. Sometimes i was scolded for being too inquisitive. My very observative nature fueled my love for writing as it became my go-to for when I had a lot to say but no one to share it with. I remember always wishing to grow up quickly and become an adult. I thought adulthood meant a clique of friends, freedom, fun, fame and lots of happy stuff.
Now that I am adult, yay(not so yay), I understand that who I am is a lot more than my personality can actually describe. Why? Because there's more to my person than my character, my beliefs and my values. There are experiences, people, places and events as well. The way I laugh at dry and not so funny jokes because of my people pleasing tendencies. The way I smile my way through conversations that I do not want to have. How I am easy to talk to because I know how it feels not to be listened to. Why I often self sabotage because what if I am just not deserving of wins and successes. How I can both be outgoing and shy at the same time. Sometimes its in my body language, in the crossing of my legs when I'm interested in something or in pinching my thumb when I'm really nervous.
About Me
Another important aspect of personality is "Who are you?" While I know myself (or at least, think i do) other times, it can be people's opinion about me. It's my hobbies; writing, talking, traveling, evening strolls. My dislikes; Bullying, dishonesty and unkempt places. Things I wished I could do like multitask, paint, fall asleep easily (lol) and its my fears too; fear of large vehicles and the fear of the unknown (or the future), my biggest fear.
Lately, I've been so anxious and worried. Being in the final year of university scares me, but what really scares me at the moment is life after school. Part of me says it's a common part of this stage of life, but regardless it scares me. I am at a place where much is expected of me, (especially as the first born). Several milestones I ought to have achieved, financial duties I am supposed to cater to but can't.
Despite having all these "inadequacies", I'm definitely proud of myself and how i have handled the many battles life has thrown at me and ready for the many opportunities that await me. One thing I like about myself? I can never be angry for too long and "too long" means more than half an hour. Another thing I like? I love to write. Writing used to be a fun thing to do but now it is much more. Its the power to make worlds with words, to birth freedom and create imagination.
I am also grateful for the blessings of good people, my family and friends. Special persons who stood by me no matter what.
Few days back, my brother @kelvinpeters introduced me to the Hive Keychain. Though, it was a bit difficult at trying to set it up with the keys and all. Navigating it was quite easy and I'm sure everyone's nice as well. Although I'm not sure of how I'll combine this with my studies and work, I hope to try to be consistent.
Now I thrive in knowing that when there is life, there is hope, where there is will, there's a way.
Cheers all, to a beautiful life🥂
[All images are mine]