Skip to main content

Power, Money, and Vulnerability

 



Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga


Power attracts wealth, while vulnerability invites poverty. Life is territorial, and every individual needs a sense of belonging and a legitimate claim to a particular area of influence. This autonomy, born from controlling and deciding over one’s claim, is the essence of power.


Territorial Claims

In the animal kingdom, territorial claims are evident. Within a claimed territory, no other animal dominates besides the claimant. Similarly, humans need claims to survive. Every person must have an area of dominance for economic exchange to occur.


The Importance of Exchange

No individual or territory has adequate supplies, making the exchange of value essential. This exchange is the foundation of economic benefits. If a person or territory isn’t part of this exchange, they’ll miss out on benefits.


Reasons for Vulnerability

1. Enmity: Enmity refers to people who displace you from your area of claim, leaving you vulnerable.

2. Self-Unconsciousness: Sometimes, benefits are perceived as sacred or out of reach. A person may be unaware they deserve a claim.

3. Nationalization: Centralized power and resources can leave many people struggling for resources and power, unaware of how to contribute positively.

4. Lack of Tangible Claims: Not having tangible claims can lead to vulnerability. Examples of tangible claims include:


Tangible Claims

1. Land: Each piece of land has its natural advantages, such as agriculture, estate development, leasing, and plantations. More complex uses, like mining, require expert exploration.

2. Expertise and Skills: The ability to turn resources into money is a valuable claim. Formal training and education enable individuals to become skilled.

3. Business: Establishing a business positions one for viable claims. Patents, trademarks, and competitive advantages strengthen these claims.

4. Creativity and Innovation: Intellectual Property rights are significant claims. Art, engineering, technology, and other creative pursuits enable individuals to establish personal claims.

5. Wealth: Saving, investing, and buying properties preserve claimable wealth for times of need or future generations.


By understanding these concepts, individuals can take steps to establish their claims, exchange value, and attract wealth.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

In loving memory of Mrs. Josephine Machuma (Nee Matongo)

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga   Mrs. Machuma played a pivotal role in shaping my Christian values and that of many during her time as a Sunday School teacher at St. Stephen United Methodist Church in the early 80s. Her catechism teachings strengthened my faith in the birth and death of Jesus Christ, and her picturesque illustrations of God’s omnipotence and omniscience remain vivid in my mind. As a dedicated teacher with stints at Zengeza 5 and 8 Primary Schools, Mrs. Machuma was known for her blunt yet nurturing approach. She would candidly address shortcomings, and her passion for education was evident. Many students, including myself, benefited from her guidance, and I’m sure many share my sentiments about her calling to educate. Together with her husband, Mr. Shepherd Machuma, the family embodied the good teachings of John Wesley. Their union, bound by vows of love and commitment, was a testament to the power of marriage. Even in separation, their love remains unwaver...

United Methodist Church: A Path of Continuous Improvement

   Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga  As a product of the United Methodist Church, I've come to realize the immense value of the administrative, business and leadership skills that the church imparts. Initially, I didn't appreciate these aspects, but after exploring other denominations, I returned to the United Methodist Church, recognizing its exceptional leadership development opportunities. The church's reporting system has had a profound impact on my self-development, and the process of worship, family ministering, and starting new churches has equipped me with replicable skills that I've applied to my daily life. Through the United Methodist Church, I've developed strong decision-making skills, strategic thinking, and effective communication. These skills have, in turn, fostered my commitment to transparency and social justice, which are now core values that I uphold in all my endeavors. I've come to expect accountability and fairness in any group or associa...

Love, Sex, and Marriage: Three Sides of the Same Coin

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga In today’s society, the lines between love, sex, and marriage are often blurred. Sex has been commercialized and portrayed as a pleasurable act, while love is taught through upbringing and personal experiences. Marriage, on the other hand, has become a duty where two people often find themselves tied together due to sex and social prestige. Love vs. Sex Sex is a natural instinct, while love is a cultivated emotion that allows us to accommodate someone who is not ourselves. As I often say in my sessions with young adults, every creature that reproduces enjoys sex. However, it’s love that sets us apart. We can plan and work on love, tolerating and forgiving someone who is different from us. Love disciplines us on who to have sex with, and mutual desire is a design of our own making. While sex and love are interconnected, they serve different purposes. Sex is driven by inner feelings that aim to satisfy reproduction, whereas love is a choice that req...