LESSONS FROM THE DUST

This morning, as I was on my way to school, something unusual caught my attention. I saw a group of men working tirelessly on the roadside, using heavy machines, excavators, bulldozers, and trucks, to move earth. The sight of the dust, sweat, and intense labor struck me deeply. It wasn’t just about road construction anymore; it became a life lesson.

I took the picture while watching the magic that was going on, it's was amazing seeing how the work is going on

Those men reminded me that development, whether personal, academic, or societal, comes with hard work. Before a road becomes smooth and beautiful, the ground must first be broken. Stones must be removed. Dirt must be carried. The caterpillars don’t complain, they dig, push, and lift until the goal is achieved.

In that moment, I saw myself in those workers. As a student, I’m also laying a foundation. Every lecture I attend, every book I read, and every sleepless night is like digging into the soil of my future. It’s messy. It’s tiring. Sometimes it feels like no one sees the effort. But I’ve learned that nothing great is built without sweat and patience.

Watching those workers gave me perspective. Some were guiding the machine. Others were directing traffic. Some carried tools. Each one had a role, and together they were moving forward. In life, we all play different parts. No role is too small if it contributes to the greater vision.

The noise from the machines reminded me that growth isn’t always quiet. Sometimes, it’s loud and chaotic. It may even seem like destruction at first. But underneath that mess, something meaningful is being built.

I looked at the ground beneath the caterpillar. It was rough and full of obstacles. Yet, the machine moved forward, clearing the way. That’s what determination looks like. Life will throw challenges, but like that machine, we must keep pushing until we’ve cleared our path.

When I finally reached school, I couldn’t shake the image from my mind. I realized that education is also a construction site. We are building minds, dreams, and destinies. It’s a process that requires grit and vision.

To anyone reading this, whether you’re in school, working, or chasing a dream, don’t be afraid of the dirt. Don’t run from the noise. Stay in the process. Let the “machines” of discipline, focus, and faith work through you.

I took this picture of myself immediately I reached my lecturer office in the school. But my went out before I took the picture, I don't wanted to be rude snapping in the office

One day, people will walk on the smooth road you’re building today. They may not see the struggle, but they’ll benefit from your effort.

So, as I walked past those men, I whispered a prayer for them. I also prayed for myself, and for everyone who is working silently to build something that matters.

Keep building. Keep digging. Keep believing.

The foundation may be messy now, but glory is coming.