This piece is culled from an article by Praise Fowowe
Welcome to September, which is the season in Africa that many whisper about with trembling lips, the so-called “Ember months”.
From Lagos to Lusaka, from Accra to Addis, you’ll hear mothers caution their children, “Be careful… the year is ending, and strange forces are unleashed.”
But pause with me for a moment: where is the data?
I have searched the pages of statistics in Nigeria and beyond, and what I find is striking. More deaths occur between January and August than from September to December.
So, let me ask you: did the devil suddenly become gentler in January, only to sharpen his fangs in September? Or is this another illusion that holds us hostage?
No, beloved. The God of January through August does not hand over His throne to the devil in September. Heaven does not operate on African superstition calendars.
The same God who carried you from January through August is still on the throne in September. No superstition can change that truth. Share on XWhat really happens is this: fear becomes an industry. Merchants of anxiety sell you rituals, vigils, and manipulations wrapped in shadows. But this year, for the very first time, I want you to wake up, shake free, and step into September with your eyes wide open.
Because your biggest break of the year is still ahead of you.
Here are my recommendations for your September awakening:
1. Replace Fear with Focus
Every time someone warns you about “Ember spirits,” smile and return to your goals. Write them boldly where your eyes can see. Fear distracts, focus delivers.
2. Audit Your Progress, Not Your Panic
Look back at January to August and ask what seeds did you plant? What little shoots are sprouting? Nurture them in September. Stop rehearsing what could go wrong and start rehearsing what is already growing.
3. Turn Superstition into Strategy
While others spend money on fear-driven programs, invest yours in knowledge, relationships, and opportunities. The world belongs not to the fearful, but to the strategic.
4. Practice Daily Gratitude and Courage
Gratitude reminds you that you are carried by grace. Courage reminds you that you are unstoppable when you walk with clarity. Combine both, and every ember month becomes your harvest month.
5. Fix Your Eyes on the Finish Line
Winners don’t stumble because of the crowd’s superstition. They lock their gaze on the finish tape. September is not a trap, it is a treasure chest. Your assignment is to keep running until December crowns you.
Instead of spending money on fear-driven rituals, invest in knowledge, relationships, and opportunities.September is not a trap; it’s a treasure chest. Share on XHere are my final words to you today:
Africa may be the only place where “Ember” is whispered with dread, but this year I declare over you: the ember months shall burn not with fear but with the fire of your dreams fulfilled.
Here’s to a September of strategy, an October of opportunities, a November of new doors, and a December of divine surprises.
Your biggest break is closer than you think.
