Monday, May 12, 2025

Super-marketization of The Gambia, Political Boutiques, and Social Mini-markets: Article by Modou Lamin Age-Almusaf Sowe

       Disclaimer: I don't own the picture.


The chicken swallows pebbles, drinks water, and eats grains. Yet, she complains of having no teeth. If she has teeth, will she eat gold? Let her go and ask the cow that has teeth but yet eats grass. Cut the grass and let the snakes come out. That's the current status of our country's political landscape. Privacy becomes a mini-market, politics turns into a supermarket, and a lack of respect for authority and elders becomes a boutique. Our society has become so demoralized to the extent that there is no middle left. You're either in the very far-left or in the very far-right. 

The politics of hate and destruction should be expunged from our soil. But if you want to know how, when, and where, you were born, go and stand in an election in The Gambia; assume a public office, or closely work with the government. To make a child remarkably embarrassed, insult his mother. In the words of Ashanti King Osei Tutu Kwadwo (Ghana) to the British Governor Sir Charles McCarthy on 21 January 1824, "I will use your skull as a drinking cup, and your jawbones to beat my drums if you dare to invade." Should Gambian elders start using this adage on the youths? Better still, the South African word vulindlela, a Zulu and Xhosa word that means "make way" or "clear the path," which is often used in the context of a wedding to instruct people to make way for the bride and groom, can be suitable for Gambian youths. We should start telling our youths 'vulindlela' if they don't want to be told how they were born. 

What we need today—what I call the new intellectual young man— is any man or woman who is willing to think responsively. Meaning—young people who know that a man’s life must be guided by reason, by intellect, not by feelings, wishes, whims, or mystic revelation. Our youth must value their lives and not give in to today’s cult of despair, cynicism, and impotence, and they must not intend to give up the world to the Dark Ages and to the rule of the collectivist brute.

As John Henrik Clarke famously observed, “Powerful people cannot afford to educate the people that they oppress, because once you are truly educated, you will not ask for power. You will take it.” The politics of opportunism adds to this exhalation. Let's get things right: visibility without value is just noise. Clout may bring crowds, but it doesn’t build trust or long-term results. The truth is less poetic. Destruction is a joint venture. But the citizen who throws garbage in the gutter and the official who sells a hospital contract to his cousin—they belong to the same machinery. Don't they? This is the conception of super-marketization in Gambian politics. A society that advocates for immorality and teaches foolishness in schools; it is no surprise to see the elephant laying eggs in our national park. That's the level of our social cohesion. Popularity has become a suitable yardstick to measure who runs for the presidency in a country where nothing is enough for a man to whom nothing is actually enough. What we are witnessing today is not just a failed society with moral degradation or public apathy; but it’s the slow erosion of divine knowledge on all sides. What the scriptures call the disappearance of knowledge—that's exactly our time. 

It is advisable to refrain from incurring additional debt of ingratitude to party politics and political affiliation should we wish to develop as a country. Our future, as a country, is too valuable to be diminished by ongoing youthful obligations. I am a fan of education, and in fact, it is good for every young person to learn dividedly and have a say in our affairs as a country: but we must not allow women to continue giving birth to insignificant children who amount to nothing other than disrespecting elders on social media. Young girls who do not wear panties nowadays and young men who bet their lives in the name of football. What a wasted sperm! The Gambia must commit to making a decision that will facilitate a rigid law-abiding society in the name of transformation. While the process may present challenges, the benefits are significantly necessary. State information and private communication must not be carelessly divulged in the name of vying for the presidency. 

Having conducted a philosophical cross-examination of our national problem, I can conclude psychologically with a prognosis that our problem frantically started immediately children who overfed on cornflakes, poop on the potty, and among them those who didn't suckle the breast of their mothers, graduate from university. Young people who speak English more than the British and dress in suits and ties. Those who know more than their parents and their teachers; young men who were circumcised at the hospital; 

These are the kinds of young people The Gambia is seeing: emotionally drained youths who vent their frustrations on social media. In those days, with just one look, elders sent children to the conventry and made them suffer the indignity of unremembered graves. But the post-Jammeh era is a generation of baby walker children who now run for president simply because of gardening fame from a village as remote as Sarre Pateh. Interesting, isn't it? That is the height of our country's name on the planet.

Instead of young people having mentors and learning to be responsible citizens who add value to our society, they often glance at our elders and their calm demeanor, unwavering patience, and consistent positivity, and mistakenly assume their path has been smooth and easy. What they fail to see are the countless battles they've fought in silence—the times they felt completely drained, yet somehow found the strength to rise again. They don’t know how many moments they stood at the edge of surrender, questioning whether they should keep going. They haven’t seen the inner wars they’ve waged, confronting fears, traumas, and doubts that threatened to consume them. Their resilience was forged in fire, not comfort, and their journey has been one of quiet courage, relentless perseverance, and a strength that defies easy explanation.

A few years ago, if you had stumbled on any profile on Facebook, you wouldn’t have seen much—just a flower as a profile picture. But all that changed when President Adama Barrow ushered in "freedom of speech and assembly." It is time to initiate an occult of humility and simplicity. There are only two times I become speechless: when I see highly respected elders in our society responding to youths who pee on the potty (poop sï pötti sambur, it is called in Wolof); and when I see haphazardly educated youth with only WAEC results and plenty of F9s advising President Adama Barrow on Facebook. It makes me laugh at our intellect as a country. 

Patriotism isn't a decadence; it's a calculated investment of responsibility, and in today's modern wasteland of cheap popularity, hypergamy, and entitlement, the youth must vet politicians like a high-stakes business deal. If you don't, you will be just another famous Bob Keita.

I’m a naturally reserved person. I wasn’t trained with social media shenanigans, and I never saw the need to post anything—not even birthday wishes. My page was just there… silent. The urge to promote Gambian literature and publicize my writings led me into social media usage. 

In today’s noisy world, focus isn’t just a habit—it’s a superpower. Be so grounded in your purpose that distractions no longer have a say. You don’t need to chase every shiny thing—just the one thing that truly matters. In both my professional and social life, I apply three ethical principles (Kantian, Utilitarianism, and Virtue ethics) to avoid offending and treating people unjustly, at least not intentionally. So, if you ever feel offended by any of my actions, I am sincerely sorry, and please forgive my shortcomings as I am only human. 

But the Kantian ethics taught me that my only motive for doing good is when it is a duty (moral and/or legal), not out of personal interest, and must be universally applicable. 

Utilitarianism reminds me of the consequences of my actions. The utilitarian perspective of good moral ethics is mainly concerned with the consequences of an action and balancing its relative advantages and disadvantages from the standpoint of creating the greatest good for the greatest number of people, in my view. This means that in order to assess an action as being right or wrong in a given situation, one must look at the consequences of applying that action and take full responsibility for your actions. 

Virtue ethics, on the other hand, has taught me an approach according to which the basic judgments in ethics are about character. In virtue ethics, an action will be considered right if it is what a virtuous agent would do in the circumstances. Virtue ethics tend to consider the personal values of an individual, with the notion that if the virtues of people are encouraged, then there would be no need for problem-solving since each and every individual would be acting from the goodness of their heart. Not so?

If ever our country is to develop, the youths, who have a key role to play in our development, must be both patient and educated.




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Saturday, April 12, 2025

6 Reasons Why Some Men Leave After Sex


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In the intricate tapestry of modern relationships, love can be both a beautiful journey and a perplexing maze. As we navigate the emotional landscapes of romance, it’s essential to understand the factors that can lead to heartbreak. 

While every relationship is unique, there are common reasons why some men may choose to leave women after becoming intimate.

Here are six reasons that shed light on this phenomenon, offering insight into the complexities of love in today’s world.

1. Physical Attraction vs. Emotional Connection

In the age of instant gratification, many men may initially be drawn to physical attraction. However, once intimacy is achieved, they may realize that the emotional connection is lacking. Love is not solely about physical chemistry; it requires a deeper bond. If a man feels that the emotional connection is absent, he may choose to walk away, leaving the woman feeling confused and hurt. 


 2. Unpleasant Experiences vs. Post-Intimacy

Intimacy can be a beautiful expression of love, but it can also reveal unexpected realities. For some men, an unpleasant smell coming from a woman’s private parts after sex can be a significant red flag. While this may not be a reflection of the woman’s worth, it can lead to discomfort and a quick change in perception. Men may associate this experience with a lack of hygiene or health issues, causing them to distance themselves emotionally and physically. Secondly, it could also be associated with the man noticing you have had an affair with many men prior to making love. Men can quickly notice a promiscuous woman after having an affair with you. This can degrade your worth-- and thereby making them walk away silently.


3. Fear of Commitment

In today’s fast-paced world, the fear of commitment looms large. Some men may enjoy the thrill of intimacy but shy away from the responsibilities that come with a serious relationship. After sex, they may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of commitment and choose to retreat rather than confront their fears. This can leave women feeling abandoned and questioning their self-worth. In a nutshell, most men leave after satisfying their needs.
 They don't want any intimacy thereafter. Perhaps the only time they will talk to you again is when they need sex. This can only happen for two reasons:

1. When they don't have any intention to marry you at all; and/or;
2. When they realize that you're too cheap and available to sleep around with every man.


4. Desire for Variety

The modern dating landscape often encourages a mindset of exploration and variety. Some men may engage in relationships with multiple partners, seeking new experiences rather than long-term connections. After intimacy, they may feel that they’ve satisfied their curiosity and move on to the next person, leaving their partner feeling discarded. This behavior can be particularly disheartening for women seeking meaningful relationships. Men are scum in general-- they are always carried away but looks, shape, and beauty. It's very hard nowadays to find a man who is only committed to only one woman. Very hard to get. 


5. Misaligned Expectations

In many cases, men and women enter relationships with different expectations. While one partner may be seeking a deep emotional connection, the other may be looking for something more casual. After intimacy, if a man realizes that his expectations do not align with those of his partner, he may choose to leave rather than navigate the complexities of differing desires. This misalignment can lead to feelings of rejection and confusion for the woman involved. When a man is ready to marry and the woman is not ready, oftentimes, when he sleeps with you multiple times-- his chances of leaving are higher. Just very high because he enjoys your sexual company rather than having a deep emotional connection with you.


6. Influence of Social Media and Peer Pressure

In the digital age, social media plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of relationships. Men may feel pressure from their family/peers to maintain a certain image or lifestyle, leading them to prioritize casual encounters over meaningful connections. After intimacy, they may feel compelled to conform to societal expectations, choosing to leave rather than invest in a relationship that may not align with their perceived status. Just to add that what they see on social media-- and what is available in real life-- are very different. Most men are carried away by beautiful pictures women post on social media, using amazing filters. But when they meet them in real life-- and notice differences; they tend to lose interest in them quickly. Lastly, men do not want to marry social media ladies. They are the first type of women every man wishes to sleep with, fully knowing that they can never marry them. Never!



Conclusion

Love in today’s world is a multifaceted experience, filled with both joy and challenges. Understanding the reasons why some men leave women after intimacy can provide valuable insights into the complexities of modern relationships. While physical attraction and chemistry are essential, they must be accompanied by emotional connection and mutual understanding. 

For women navigating the dating landscape, it’s crucial to communicate openly about expectations and desires. Building a strong emotional bond can help foster lasting connections, ensuring that love transcends the fleeting moments of intimacy. Ultimately, love is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to embrace both the highs and lows along the way.


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Friday, March 14, 2025

Fortification of Oneself in an Age of Self-Entitlement, Misinformation, Castigation, Hatred, and Envy

          Disclaimer: this image is subjected to copyright.


If the Divine can have adversaries, who are we to expect otherwise? In this world, individuals will invariably choose whom to support and whom to oppose. We inhabit a society where wisdom is often silenced, ignorance speaks with eloquence, and truth is distorted to appease the ears it encounters.


It seems more prudent to nourish a dog than to feed humanity; a dog, when fed daily, expresses gratitude and remains loyal, while a man, once deprived of sustenance, may label you as cruel, castigate you, or render you inhumane. As the Holy Qur'an reminds us, “Man was created in haste” (Quran 21:37).

In this tumultuous landscape, it is imperative for each individual to fortify themselves daily against the hasid (the envious) and the malevolent gaze of those who harbor ill intentions. 

In a class of students, everyone avoided Isatou without knowing she is deaf. Before it was known to them, almost half of the class have already labelled her as "rude, pompous, doesn't socialize, etc..." The moral of my article today is to ask before we judge. The Holy Bible tells us "Ask, it shall be given. Seek, you'll find, and knock, it shall be opened," Mathew 7:7. 

Before casting judgment upon the seemingly madman, one must seek to understand the roots of their madness. Many individuals in our society have succumbed to insanity due to spiritual battles waged against them by the forces of darkness. Yet, we often judge them without comprehending their narratives. 

When a life is lost, and the cause remains shrouded in mystery, let us pray for the departed rather than speculate on their eternal fate. When someone loses their livelihood, let us inquire before we pass judgment. The truth does not require embellishment to be acknowledged. 

Our society has become so polarized that the middle ground has all but vanished; one is either entrenched in the far-left or the far-right. People are quick to judge, and falsehoods propagate with alarming speed, often outpacing the truth. Content creators, in their haste to produce viral materials, frequently overlook the depth of understanding required to convey meaningful narratives that are truthful.

I hold a deep appreciation for open-minded individuals who can perceive situations from multiple perspectives. The more enlightened one becomes, the more one recognizes the value of silence. While many are quick to judge, we must refrain from condemning others’ choices without grasping their motivations. I strive to cherish existence and all that it encompasses. 


Some may withhold their support out of intimidation by your potential. If power and wealth breed arrogance, illness and mortality will serve as humbling reminders of our transient nature. The reason you may be unfamiliar with certain relatives is often tied to your financial status; acquire wealth, and you may find them eager to introduce themselves.

Be so steadfast in your character that those who seek to tarnish your name lose credibility in their attempts. 

No one ascends to prominence without navigating a landscape littered with adversity, climbing mountains of opposition from both jinn and mankind. Have you ever paused to ponder the questions: Why? How? When? What is the underlying reason for these occurrences?


“Powerful individuals cannot afford to educate those they oppress, for once true education is attained, the oppressed will not seek power; they will seize it.” — John Henrik Clarke. 

In this age of self-entitlement and misinformation, let us fortify ourselves with knowledge, compassion, and understanding, striving to transcend the divisions that plague our society.




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Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Virginity for Valentine - a poem by Modou Lamin Age-Almusaf Sowe

Disclaimer: This picture is subjected to copyright. 




On Valentine’s Day, a gift so rare,
A heart laid bare, a moment to share.
In shock, I stood, unprepared for the night,
Yet in her eyes, a flickering light.

The moans and the pain, a bittersweet song,
In the depths of love, where we both belong.
But in that embrace, a lesson unfolds,
True love is precious, not bought or sold.

In shadows cast by love's embrace,  
A gift unasked, a tender trace.  
With whispered sighs and hearts entwined,  
In passion's dance, our souls aligned.  

The ugly beauty of first delight,  
In pain and pleasure, we took flight.  
A moment raw, a bond so deep,  
In love's fierce grip, our secrets keep.   
The crimson tide, a sacred rite,  
In every gasp, the world ignites.  
With trembling hands, we crossed the line,  
In ecstasy's grip, your heart was mine.  

The taste of trust, both fierce and sweet,  
In every heartbeat, our spirits meet.  
Though shock and fear danced in the air,  
In that wild moment, nothing could compare.  

A love so fierce, it broke the mold,  
In vulnerability, our story told.  
Through moans and whispers, we found our way,  
In the depths of night, we chose to stay.  

So here we stand, in love's embrace,  
A journey begun, a sacred space.  
With every scar, a tale to weave,  
In the tapestry of love, we believe.


Author's note: 

Dear young girls, your virginity is a treasure, not a token for fleeting moments or gifts. Love should never be measured by physical acts or special days. Cherish your body and your heart; true intimacy comes from deep connection and respect, not from pressure or expectation. Wait for a love that honors you completely.


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Friends Before Lovers - a poem by Modou Lamin Age-Almusaf Sowe

a picture of Modou Lamin Age-Almusaf Sowe (right), with Anne (left), and Esther (middle).
  

In laughter shared, our hearts began to bloom,  
Two souls entwined in joy, a bond so rare,  
Through whispered dreams, we chased away the gloom,  
In every secret shared, we laid us bare.  


With every glance, a spark ignited bright,  
Yet friendship's warmth held passion at bay,  
We danced in shadows, veiled in soft twilight,  
Unspoken words in silence found their way.
  

But time, a thief, did weave a different thread,  
As feelings deepened, friendship turned to flame,  
In tender moments, all our fears we shed,  
And love emerged, no longer just a game.  


So here we stand, where once we dared not tread,  
From friends to lovers, hearts forever wed.



Modou Lamin Age-Almusaf Sowe



© All Rights Reserved! Thank you for reading and following my blog. Kindly address your message to: modoulaminsowe1@hotmail.com. 

Copying any of my articles without written permission is an infringement of Copyright.

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Super-marketization of The Gambia, Political Boutiques, and Social Mini-markets: Article by Modou Lamin Age-Almusaf Sowe

       Disclaimer: I don't own the picture. The chicken swallows pebbles, drinks water, and eats grains. Yet, she complains of having no...