OMO LÍLẸ̀ - THE TOUGH CHILD

OMO LÍLẸ̀For those who don’t understand Yoruba, “Omo Lílẹ̀” translates to “Tough Child.” I have always been seen as a tough child, even from childhood, and it became a norm for me.The child that never cries.The child with so much toughness that nothing really shakes her.I don’t know when it started or how, but I know this much—for as long as I can remember, I’ve always had to be brave, tough, and fearless.It felt like a default setting. To family, friends, and acquaintances,I was always the one who shielded others,instead of being shielded myself. I never saw it as a big deal,because I genuinely enjoyed helping people,being their comfort,making them feel safe.I liked that. But Damn—Sometimes it gets so heavy.There are times I’ve been completely burned out,desperate to recharge. Times I scroll through my contacts,searching for someone—just one person—I could talk to,someone I’d feel safe with.Someone who understands me deeply enoughto tell me, “It will be okay,”even if they’re not sure it really will. Because Omo Lílẹ̀ can be tired too.Omo Lílẹ̀ feels pain too.Omo Lílẹ̀ can be hurt too.Omo Lílẹ̀ can burn out too.Omo Lílẹ̀ is human too.Being an Omo Lílẹ̀ doesn’t make me immortal.It just makes me humana human with emotions and burdens. There are times I’m so low,I need someone to pull me up.Times I cry in private,while everyone believes I don’t cry at all. Times I type encouraging words to lift others,while tears sting my eyesand my soul feels broken. Times it hurts so muchI just want to breathe.Times I just want a break from being tough. And sometimes—I wish someone would notice.Notice that the strong one is shaking.Notice that the shield has cracks.Notice that even warriorslong for rest. But the world doesn’t always notice.And maybe that’s why Omo Lílẹ̀ learnsto notice herself.To sit with her own silence.To heal in hidden corners.To rise again—not because it’s easy,but because she must. If this feels like you, I’m sorry.But this is Omo Lílẹ̀ telling you— It’s okay to feel.It’s okay to cry.It’s okay to be tired.It’s okay to burn out. It doesn’t reduce your strength.In fact, it sharpens it.Because once the tears dry,you rise again—stronger, tougher,carrying new lessons,new resilience. Omo Lílẹ̀, you’ve come far.And I am proud of you. Let’s conquer the world, joorThis is to all Omo Lílẹ̀.❤️

Other insights from Esther Alo

Referral Earning

Points-to-Coupons