I was raised in a beautiful family of three. As the first born and only girl, everything went my way. My mother loved all of us equally but Dad loved and trusted me more.

I was not only sharp in school but very quick at sorting out minor problems at home. One day, Dad resigned from civil service and took on politics.

I supported him completely and later we celebrated his election victory. Little did I know that things would get tougher for me.

Mum was so involved in business, often, I was left with many responsibilities. Whenever she went on her long business trips, I made sure that everything went well at home.

Dad always came home at 8pm daily. I was so miserable with the whole situation because most children of my age used their after school time to play and do sports. 

My school was not far from my siblings’ and so it was my duty to pick them up daily and get them to bed on time. They respected me highly and could not say no to any of my orders.

Though dad came home late, he always brought me a gift for all my good work. He always assured me that responsibility was not a punishment.

I began to love what I did; in fact, I became more efficient, after all being the first born normally comes with some responsibilities.

Today, I realise that all the roles I played as a child have paid off positively. I am a good leader and in school, I campaigned for different posts and became the Head Girl in my primary and secondary school.

Ends