By Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN
Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the greatest composers in history, exemplified the essence of tenacity, competence, and unwavering dedication to his craft. Born in Bonn, Germany, in 1770, he rose from a modest background to become a musical genius, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music world. His journey teaches us invaluable lessons that resonate deeply with aspiring professionals.
Beethoven’s early life was marked by hardship. He faced immense pressure from his father, who sought to mould him into a child prodigy. Yet, it was through these trials that Beethoven cultivated a fierce tenacity. He did not let the weight of expectation crush his spirit; instead, he embraced it, honing his skills through relentless practice. This resilience in the face of adversity is a critical lesson for Nigerians striving to carve their paths in various fields. As the Bible reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Like Beethoven, one must learn to embrace challenges, turning obstacles into stepping stones on the path to success.
As Beethoven matured, he encountered the profound challenge of deafness. Imagine the despair of a composer losing his ability to hear—the very essence of his life’s work slipping away. Yet, instead of succumbing to this fate, Beethoven’s response was nothing short of extraordinary. He adapted, using his deep understanding of music theory and composition. He continued to create masterpieces, including his Ninth Symphony, one of the most celebrated works of all time. This transformation illustrates the importance of competence. True mastery involves not just technical skills but also the ability to innovate and find solutions in difficult circumstances. The Qur’an states, “Indeed, with hardship comes ease” (Qur’an 94:6), reminding us that even in our most challenging moments, growth opportunities abound.
For budding professionals, Beethoven’s journey underscores the significance of continuous learning and adaptation. In a rapidly changing world, competence is not a static achievement but a dynamic pursuit. Whether in technology, business, or the arts, the ability to evolve and embrace new ideas is essential. Like Beethoven, who created beauty despite his limitations, young professionals must harness their unique strengths and seek knowledge relentlessly. As the Ifa proverb goes, “He who does not know one thing knows another” encouraging us to recognise the value of diverse experiences and perspectives.
Moreover, the Ifa corpus teaches us through the wisdom of the Orunmila, “Ise ni o se, ko si ija ni o ri,” meaning “It is through work that you succeed, and there is no struggle without reward.” This emphasises the importance of hard work and commitment in achieving one’s goals.
Dedication to one’s principles is another cornerstone of Beethoven’s legacy. His music often reflected his belief in personal freedom and the human spirit. He stood firm against societal norms and expectations, creating works that challenged the status quo. This dedication serves as an inspiration for Nigerians, encouraging them to pursue their passions with integrity and purpose. In a country rich with potential yet riddled with challenges, staying true to one’s values can lead to transformative change. The philosophical insight of Aristotle resonates here: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” This highlights that dedication is a practice cultivated over time.
In ending this, Beethoven’s life is a demonstration of the power of tenacity, competence, and dedication. Aspiring professionals can draw inspiration from his story, understanding that success is not merely a destination but a journey marked by perseverance, continuous growth, and an unwavering commitment to one’s principles. As they navigate their paths, let Beethoven’s legacy remind us that the symphony of their lives can be composed, note by note, with resilience and passion. Indeed, with dedication and hard work, the future can be bright.
Let us remember the divine words of Ifa: “A ki i se ogun, a fi se igi” — “We do not just engage in battle; we cultivate the tree.” The journey may be tough, but with dedication, the fruits of our labour will surely come to bear