Dirt is Good

When Kenyans hear this phrase - “Dirt is good” - they think of the popular detergent “OMO” that re-launched with this new tag line to communicate the product’s benefits. I was watching Steve Harvey on TBN Africa this week and was quite amazed to realize that he now hosts a show known as “Praise the Lord”. Most of us who have watched “The Kings of Comedy” and followed this comedian’s career know that he is well known for his crazy talk and crazy humor and also well loved for the same. I was excited to discover that there is so much more to him, that he also has an inspiring side to his personality and I really appreciated his honesty in sharing his own mistakes and experiences in the show. This further demonstrates why we should not judge people until we get to know them. Anyway, Steve Harvey talked about this concept of how difficulties and obstacles are important in our lives and talked about how dirt illustrates this… and he really got me thinking about this phrase in a whole new light – Dirt is good.

When we look at successful people like Steve or even successful people in our own society we applaud them and admire them…but how often do we truly take time to think about the sacrifices and the hardships that led them to their success? In our fast paced world we tend to lose sight of what it truly takes - the sacrifices, the suffering, and the hard work – to get to that dream life… to really live that ideal life that we’re striving for. Think about a seed that’s planted and what it takes for this seed to grow into a great tree. Logically, it wouldn’t make sense that you have to bury a seed in the ground and cover it with dirt for it to grow. But that dirt (soil) is what has the right nutrients to transform the seed, to make it sprout into what it’s meant to be.

“Dirt” represents all the hardships you have faced, all the people that have looked down on you or disrespected you or refused to believe in you. It represents that job you hate, that lack of food, that pain and disappointment you may be going through. Recognize that this “Dirt”, like the normal dirt, also has nutrients…all the hardships that we face are like the nutrients in soil that help the seed to grow…they help to form your character to teach you lessons and mold you so that you can be prepared for the greatness you will achieve. Instead of losing heart, accept that dirt is good! Take the time to develop your work ethic by giving 100% positive commitment and hard work to your current circumstances, whatever they may be. Take time to focus on personal development, and look for opportunities for everyday growth in your life. Allow the “Dirt” in your life to build your character.

Like the seed, you will start to grow, day by day, step by step until you sprout and leave the dirt, and then with time your seed will become a mighty tree, a great tree of success. You are destined to be more than you ever dreamed but greatness requires sacrifice…embrace your hardships and obstacles, they will lead you to your success. Dirt is good after all.