Living in the UK has brought many new experiences, some of which have been quite eye-opening. One of the biggest surprises has been just how expensive plantains are here! Coming from a place where they were cheap and easily accessible, it was a shock to discover the prices here. What’s even more interesting is how many of my British friends aren’t familiar with plantains at all.
For me, the best way to enjoy plantain is undeniably Dodo—fried plantains. Crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, Dodo is a comfort food that brings back so many memories. But here’s the thing about frying plantains: it’s all about timing and focus. The moment you throw them into that sizzling oil, they demand your full attention. If you get distracted for even a second, you’re left with burnt plantains—definitely not what you want. It’s a delicate balance.
And this brings me to a profound life lesson: distraction is a luxury you cannot afford. Just like with frying Dodo, when we are chasing our dreams or pursuing our goals in life, it often feels like we are stuck on the fire, waiting for things to manifest. You might feel like you’re doing everything right, but success often doesn’t come immediately. And just when you feel like you can take a break or look away, life’s distractions creep in, and before you know it, your hard work has been ruined, like a batch of burnt plantains.
Proverbs 4:25-27 advises us to “Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.”
Just like the heat under that frying plantain, our journey requires focus. When distractions come our way, whether in the form of temptation, fear, or procrastination, they can easily lead us off course.
The apostle Paul also cautions in Philippians 3:13-14: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Focus is paramount. In the moments when you’re tempted to lose track or feel like you’re not making progress, remember that persistence and attention are key. As in frying Dodo, the results will only be sweet and satisfying if you stay attentive and committed, even when it seems like things aren’t changing right away.
In a world where lots of things are seeking your attention, how do you deal with distractions? Share in the comment section below.
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2 thoughts on “Dòdò – Distractions”
The scripture hit differently in this post Proverbs 4:25-27 – “Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.”
More like consider carefully the career path you choose for yourself but once you do, go all in.
It even gets more interesting the first part of the scripture recommends a fixed eyes and a call to look straight ahead. I think this precedence gives context to the admonition for careful consideration of your path.
It’s more like what vision do you have for your life? Let that vision determine your career path and once you choose that career path, stay in lane and give it all it takes.
Talking about Dodo. I recommend a culture transfer.
Thank you for the wonderful piece Dr.