Skip to main content

Hiding the Truth and Short-Lived Benefits

 




Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga


Intentionally making wrong decisions to gain undeservedly may seem tempting, but the benefits are fleeting. Life has a natural equilibrium where justice prevails, and wrongdoing ultimately catches up with us.


We often convince ourselves that we would have achieved our goals anyway, but the truth is, shortcuts and dishonest means may provide temporary advantages, but they undermine our character and integrity.


Driving Forces of Wrongdoing


Reflecting on my personal experiences, I realized that feelings of inferiority and inadequacy can drive us to wrongdoing. For instance:


- Economic pressure: I recall feeling embarrassed about my economic status and trying to keep up appearances by cheating my parents.

- Desire and longing: A person may cheat or steal to acquire something they desire, such as luxury items or attention.

- Cover-up: When faced with severe consequences, individuals may try to destroy evidence or hide the truth to avoid accountability.

- Insufficiency: Taking shortcuts to achieve financial gain or success can lead to wrongdoing.

- Status seeking: The desire to maintain a certain image or status can drive people to engage in dishonest behaviour.

- Defeat and revenge: The shame and powerlessness that come with defeat can motivate individuals to seek revenge through wrongful means.


These driving forces can lead us down a slippery slope, but recognizing them is the first step towards making positive changes and cultivating a stronger sense of integrity. Our integrity is more valuable and it lasts even to next generations. A good name attracts money


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...

Greener Pastures Do Not Secure A Fat Cow

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Just like cows seeking greener pastures, humans are drawn to opportunities that promise better living standards. However, I pose a critical question: do greener pastures truly guarantee prosperity if the underlying conditions are flawed? Perhaps the lack of progress is not due to the absence of opportunities, but rather the result of haphazard approaches, poor planning, and neglected resources. In the pursuit of a better life, many Africans seek opportunities in diaspora, enticed by promises of higher salaries and improved living standards. Yet, I firmly believe that true fulfillment and lasting impact can only be achieved by addressing the underlying conditions that hinder our progress in our own autonomous land – a land where we have territorial integrity. These underlying conditions include : 1. Absent value creation mechanisms : Failing to harness value from our resources and talents, instead relying on others for validation. 2. Disunity : Lac...

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...