• Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones."

• The great use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it."

ream it! Dreams do come true! You have the power to make your dreams a reality, no matter your age or circumstances. Believe in yourself and take action toward your goals. When you're ready to pursue your passion and start your own career, don't fret or let fear or doubt hold you back. Instead, let your determination and perseverance guide you to success. Remember, the only thing standing between you and your dreams is your willingness to chase your dreams. Professor Chinua Achebe provided the innate literary platform for serious-minded individuals with intrinsic motivation to unearth their writing skills and talents.

In 2006, I relocated from Nigeria to the United States of America. As an aspiring writer, author, and avid reader, I had a life-changing experience while browsing the bookshelves of Barnes and Noble, a reputable bookstore in Arizona, USA. There, I rediscovered a book that would forever alter how I viewed literature and the art of reading. The book in question was "Things Fall Apart," written by the illustrious Nigerian author, late Professor Chinua Achebe. From that moment on, I knew that my insatiable quest and passion for the written word would only continue to grow. And the dream of becoming an author would become a reality. It was a soothing experience seeing a Nigerian author's book conspicuously displayed in the reading traffic and hubs of the world.

Meanwhile, I can understand how inspiring it can be to read a great work of literature like "Things Fall Apart" by Professor Chinua Achebe. It's amazing how one book can influence many aspiring writers to pursue their passion for writing. The fact that this book has been translated into over 50 languages and sold millions of copies is a testament to its enduring impact and the profound influence of Professor Achebe's writing on the world.

Achebe was a prolific writer and quintessential professor. During his lifetime, Achebe published over 20 exciting books. He was also a tireless advocate for African literature and has helped to raise the profile of young and old African writers around the world. The vintage Professor Achebe was awarded numerous honors for his work, including the Man Booker International Prize 2007. The high-spirited Professor Achebe died in Boston, Massachusetts, in 2013. He was 82 years old.

Heartwarmingly, this token of appreciation and tribute is for remembering a man who did literary exploits when "There Was A Country" called Nigeria. May we, as a country, get our mojo back from the basics. Thanks to the erudite Professor for leaving an enduring legacy for us! Happy posthumous birthday to Professor Chinua Achebe.

May the undying legacy of Professor Chinua Achebe and his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.