Growing up in Africa and having dreams. Never realized one of them would include being chief of my Village one day.

There is pride in being uplifted to a position by the people. They put their trust in you, they’ve chosen you to represent them. They’ve entrusted you with their children and their children’s children.

Life will test you anytime you get elevated. But perhaps it is more of a preparation than a test. The teacher must make sure you are the one. The journey requires intestinal fortitude and it comes with a cost.

Many will not shoulder the burden, but those who do will emerge stronger. I often yearn for an easier path, but I also understand that to whom much is given, much is expected. Life’s challenges develop big shoulders, and right now I’m loving my shoulders. The bigger the ask, the bigger the cost. Accept it. Pay the cost, it’s the only way. It’s like sports. Those who are the best were willing to make the sacrifice.

Many do not want to hear about this part. The lost...