Difference between being "asked to do" and being "told to do"

Politics of Development is not just by mouth but by Action.

I remembered my late grandpa, Baba Francis Falade Fayemi (FFF), a respected leader in the community, who would spend hours sitting in the garage, earnestly listening to the concerns and stories of the townspeople. The image of my grandfather's unwavering dedication and availability struck a chord within me.

From that moment on, I made a decision. I understood that being available and genuinely listening to the people was not merely something he was asked to do; it was something he was told to do. It became clear to him that this was the first, best, and sometimes the only way to build meaningful relationships and engage with the community.

While growing up, I love visiting my hometown because this is an avenue to meet with my grandpa and learn from his well of experience. I grew up knowing that "Leadership is service." When I started going back to the grassroots soliciting for votes and meeting my constituents, I knew there was something missing in my approach to serving the people. While I attended numerous events and made promises of change, I never seemed to truly connect with the individuals who resided at the grassroots level.

Deep down, I knew that building relationships and engaging with the people was crucial for effective governance. However, I struggled to find the right way to accomplish this. 

One day, my grandpa approached me and said, "Young man, one day, you will be given a tremendous responsibility to serve the people. But remember, the first way, the best way, and sometimes the only way to build relationships and engage the people at the grassroots is to be available and to earnestly listen to them."

I pondered those words, realizing the truth in them. From that moment on, I made a commitment to be available to the community and genuinely listen to their needs.

As I started attending local gatherings, visiting homes, and actively participating in community events, the people were taken aback. I became dedicated to hearing their stories, understanding their struggles, and acknowledging their desires for change. 

I discovered that the issues plaguing the community were far more complex than I had initially thought. Listening to the people's heartfelt stories, I realized that my previous approach of telling them what they needed had only served to isolate me from their reality.

The distinction between being "asked to do" and being "told to do" became a pivotal lesson in understanding the importance of genuine connection with the people we serve.

Politicians need to change their approach to governance. This should serves as a reminder that true power lies not in a position, but in the ability to be available, to listen, and to create meaningful relationships with those who matter most – the people.

Politicians should prioritize availability and earnest listening over simply telling the people what they needed. The curiosity will grow, and a wave of change will begin to ripple through the political landscape.

Over time, your efforts will bear fruit. Politicians should initiate programs and policies based on the genuine needs of the people, rather than presumptions. You will see that the town will flourish, and you will be known as a true representative of the people. Your dedication to being available and listening intently should become a shining example for politicians across the country.

In conclusion, let the people ponder, waiting with bated breath for the next leader who would embrace the responsibility of being available and earnestly listening to the voices of the grassroots.

Do your best, Politics of Development should be the goal.

Written by OBAAdeyemiO