Does Life Dependent on that Alone? Creative Nonfiction Prompt 54

In 2013, my sister got married, and after giving birth, she needed assistance during the postnatal period. My mom wasn't physically capable, so the responsibility fell to me as her last daughter. I decided to visit, but it turned into an experience that could have led to a serious misunderstanding between my sister and me if we weren't related.

My days were filled with endless tasks, bouncing from one online meeting to another. At that time, I was highly dedicated to affiliate marketing, attending constant Zoom meetings to gain financial stability. This was combined with a stack of household chores that I had taken on as my sole responsibilities.

During the early days of my stay, my sister and her husband were proud of my dedication. However, that changed when I started prioritizing my online business over household chores.

One morning, my brother-in-law needed breakfast, which consisted of potatoes with pap. To have it ready before 8 am, I had to start preparing at 6 am. Unfortunately, that was the day I had a meeting scheduled at 6 am. I hoped it would last only an hour, but it stretched to two hours.

"Hey, aren't we having breakfast today? I'm about to leave for work!" he shouted out his frustration, even though he wasn't addressing anyone in particular.

Source
Image by prostooleh on Freepik

My sister, visibly irritated, left the room and stormed into my room, where she found me occupied with something related to my online business. This scene was far from ideal.

Later, the issue persisted. I found myself doing some tasks overnight while others slept, rushing to wash the baby's clothes and prepare items for the morning meal to keep up with my busy schedule. I had no free time for myself; it was all work and chores.

One Sunday, my sister and her husband proposed spending the day exploring the beautiful city of Lagos. I declined, citing my workload, and encouraged them to go without me.

"Mary, you need to understand, life isn't just about making money," my sister urged. "Sometimes, you need to enjoy life. Work can wait."

Listening to their conversation, I realized it was a lesson I needed to learn. After they left, I busied myself with my phone, determined to catch up on pending work. I was alone at home, with the baby peacefully asleep.

After some hours went by, my phone began buzzing, and I eventually answered a call from Ngozi, my childhood friend.

"Hello, Mary, I'm in Lagos. It's been ages. I heard you visited your sister," she said.

I couldn't ignore her, even though her call felt like an interruption. We agreed to meet on the weekend to catch up.

We spent a wonderful evening together, sharing our life stories and rekindling our friendship. As we talked, Ngozi pointed out that I looked stressed, concerned that I was overworking myself due to my sister's baby.

I explained that it wasn't my sister's baby causing my stress but my dedication to my online business. I hardly had time to eat, as my days were consumed by work.

Ngozi offered valuable advice: "Life isn't just about what you make. It's important, but don't overwork yourself. Create a balance in your life. You don't have to be lazy, but you don't have to over-stress yourself either."

I saw the meaning in her words, and we decided to focus on having fun. It was a wonderful evening, and the joy of spending time together was palpable.

As Ngozi left for her destination, her words stayed with me. I realized I needed to find a balance in my life. I gradually reduced my involvement in online affairs, started taking better care of my health, and ensured I never missed breakfast. I also made time for my sister and her family. The isolation I had once felt was replaced with a new, healthier lifestyle that I've maintained to this day.