By Pat Onukwuli
In today’s world, which is often marked by fleeting achievements and transient fame, some lives leave an enduring legacy, impacting countless individuals and communities long after their time. Such is the story of an extraordinary woman and mother whose commitment to education, simplicity, and the well-being of others continues to resonate profoundly; a woman whose life was an illustration of kindness, discipline and dedication.
Reflecting on her enduring legacy is fitting as we commemorate such a remarkable figure. Here is a woman who, despite her noble birth, chose to tread a path of humility, service, and education. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have by living a life rooted in compassion and simplicity. We remember a life rooted in minimalism and altruism that can offer profound solutions to the country’s harsh economic realities.
We memorialise a woman who was an apostle of Aristotle’s assertion that “Moral excellence comes about because of habit…we become just by doing just acts, temperate by temperate acts, great by great acts”, emphasising the transformative power of habitual virtuous behavioural discipline. We pay tribute to Mother, whose life resonated with Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s theory of the apogee of simplicity, which underscores the profound beauty and effectiveness of living a life unencumbered by unnecessary complexities that lead to a more focused, fulfilling, and impactful life.
As we mark the 30th anniversary of her passing, Odoziaku, Chief Mrs Anastasia Onukwuli, my dearly beloved mother, was a mother in a million whose life was unassumingly simple. Her passing at the relatively young age of 54 was a profound loss, but the impact of her life continues to be felt. And despite the trappings of nobleness, she lived modestly, prioritising the needs of others over her own. Her home, a haven of warmth and generosity, was a true reflection of her modesty. Every person who entered felt her genuine concern and care, making them feel valued and understood in her presence.
We celebrate a life characterised by modest living and a commitment to serving others. Her life provides a compelling blueprint for how individuals and communities can navigate economic adversity with resilience and integrity. It underscores the value of prioritising essential needs over material excess, which can significantly influence how resources are managed and allocated in a nation facing economic hardship. By embracing simplicity, individuals and governments can focus on what truly matters, reducing waste and inefficiencies that drain resources and hinder progress.
Her remembrance prompts a reflective question: What is the real essence of life? Is it about participating in the everyday rat race and accumulating wealth, or should it be dedicated to the service of others? In contemplating her life, it becomes clear that the accurate measure of our existence lies in the latter. Indeed, the pursuit of selfish acquisitions and the relentless race for personal success pale compared to the fulfilment of serving others.
In a world teeming with needs and wants, prioritising the service of others can seem daunting and idealistic. Yet, this approach is justifiable and essential for fostering a more compassionate, equitable, and sustainable society. It also addresses critical issues and encourages personal and communal well-being. By prioritising service, we can create a ripple effect of positive change that benefits everyone.
A single drop of water, which falls into a serene pond is small and seemingly insignificant. Yet, the moment it touches the surface, it sends ripples that extend far beyond its original point of contact. These ripples spread outward, intersecting and merging with others, creating a dynamic and interconnected web of movement across the entire pond. In the same way, personal acts of selflessness, no matter how small, create ripples of positive impact that extend far beyond the initial act and contribute to a more significant wave of change, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and shared purpose within a community.
Thus, selflessness over selfishness in the service of the community revolves around the transformative power of altruism and its profound impact on individuals and society. Rooted in ethical and moral principles, it asserts that true fulfilment and societal progress are achieved through selflessness rather than the pursuit of personal gain. This open-handedness aligns with the philosophy of Ubuntu, an ethical concept of southern African origin, which emphasises that “I am because we are,” highlighting the importance of communal interdependence and shared humanity.
In contrast, selfishness and the pursuit of personal gain often lead to short-term gratification at the expense of long-term well-being. Selfish actions erode trust, create divisions, and perpetuate communal inequalities, as we witness today in Nigeria. Self-interest provides temporary material benefits but ultimately undermines social cohesion and collective progress.
Odoziaku’s being was antithetical to this detrimental practice of egotism. Her legacy reminds us that a person’s worth is not in their status or wealth but in their capacity for love, empathy, and service to others. She taught us that simplicity is a virtue and that the most profound impact we can have on the world is through the kindness we show and the knowledge we impart. This aligns with the practical approach of philosophers like John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham, who advocate for actions that promote the greatest good for the most significant number.
John Stuart Mill’s practical philosophy and the foundational ideas of Jeremy Bentham offer valuable guidance for Nigeria, which is struggling with severe socio-economic challenges. Utilitarianism’s focus on maximising overall well-being aligns with the urgent need to address widespread poverty and inequality in the country. Political leaders in various tiers of government should adopt only policies that aim to achieve the greatest good for the most people. Decision-makers should focus on creating interventions that address critical issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. This approach can help efficiently allocate scarce resources to areas with the most significant potential for positive impact, thereby improving the quality of life for many Nigerians.
In Nigeria, where economic disparity and social inequality are significant challenges, a selfless approach can drive collaborative efforts to address these issues. Communities inspired by her example can work together to implement initiatives that support the underprivileged, such as local development projects, educational programs, and healthcare services. This spirit of mutual aid and shared responsibility can lead to more equitable solutions and sustainable development, reflecting her enduring impact. Her life serves as a reminder that by valuing simplicity and selflessness, Nigeria can foster a culture of empathy and resilience, ultimately paving the way for a more balanced and prosperous society.
As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of her passing, we honour my mother’s extraordinary spirit and the indelible mark she left on our lives. We also celebrate her life by embodying the values she held dear, which will endure for future generations. She taught us that life is not about the grandeur of one’s status but the greatness of one’s heart. Therefore, let us strive to be more compassionate, more understanding, and more dedicated to the service of others. Her dedications to education, humility, and unwavering care for others serve as a guiding light, encouraging us to live with purpose and compassion. Though short, her life was filled with immense love and service, reflecting her noble soul.
• Onukwuli, PhD, writes from Bolton, UK [email protected]