One Journey, Two Lessons

Traveling to Ogun State for the first time felt exciting and terrifying at the same time. I had always wanted to explore more of my country, to see places beyond my daily routine. This time, my heart was set on one destination Olumo Rock. I had seen pictures, heard stories, and imagined myself standing before that ancient wonder. But imagination is easy; reality is different.

The moment I stepped out to begin my journey, confusion welcomed me like an uninvited guest. I didn’t know which bus to enter, where to stand, or who to ask. Everywhere was noisy—horns blaring, conductors shouting destinations, people moving with purpose as if everyone had a map except me.

I stood there, trying not to look lost, but inside I was panicking. I knew one thing for sure: I was going to Abeokuta to see Olumo Rock. Everything else was a mystery.

I almost made my first mistake when a man approached me confidently, offering “help.” His tone was smooth, too smooth. He spoke fast, pointing at different buses, promising shortcuts and cheap fares. Something in me felt uneasy. I had heard stories how first-time travelers could easily fall into the wrong hands. My instincts screamed caution.

I stepped back politely, pretending to make a phone call.

That was when a woman noticed me. She looked ordinary no loud voice, no forceful gestures. Just calm. She asked gently, “My sister, where are you going?” I hesitated at first, but something about her felt safe. I told her I was traveling to Ogun State for tourism and wanted to see Olumo Rock.

She smiled.

“That one is simple,” she said.

Patiently, she explained everything where to stand, the exact bus to enter, how much I should pay, and where to stop. She even warned me about agberos and advised me not to hand my bag to anyone or follow strangers who promised special routes. Her words were firm but caring, like an elder sister guiding you through unfamiliar ground.

Thanks to her, I entered the right bus.

As the bus moved, relief washed over me. The city slowly changed busy roads gave way to calmer scenes, greenery stretching along the highways. I watched from the window, feeling proud of myself for taking this step alone. Every kilometer felt like a small victory.

When I finally arrived in Abeokuta, the excitement returned. Asking for directions felt easier now. I had gained a bit of confidence from surviving the first challenge. Soon enough, I stood before Olumo Rock, and it took my breath away.

It was massive, beautiful, and powerful standing tall like a silent witness to centuries of history. As I climbed and explored, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. I wasn’t just seeing a tourist site; I was proving something to myself. I had faced fear, confusion, and uncertainty and still arrived safely.

The rock reminded me of strength, resilience, and guidance. Just like my journey.

When it was time to return home, something surprising happened. I didn’t feel lost anymore. I recognized the roads, remembered landmarks, and understood the transport system better. What once confused me now felt familiar. I knew where to go, which bus to enter, and how much to pay.

Experience had taught me.

As the bus took me back home, I reflected on the journey. I realized how easily things could have gone wrong if I had trusted the wrong person. I also realized how one act of kindness—from a stranger changed everything.

Through that experience, I learned an important lesson: it is good to ask for help, but it is wiser to be careful about who you ask. Not everyone who offers help means well, and not everyone who is quiet lacks good intentions.

Traveling to Ogun State gave me more than memories and pictures it gave me awareness, confidence, and wisdom. I returned home safely, richer in experience, and grateful for the lessons the journey taught me.

Sometimes, the road teaches you more than the destination ever could.