Poverty is a choice‼️

I saw a TikTok video last night claiming that poverty is a choice.

I laughed. I mean, more like they were blaming those suffering from poverty and tagging them responsible for it. Okay.

I understand the mythological theory that poverty is solely the result of individual failure and anyone can achieve wealth through hard work alone. Accepted ✅

But when do we stop blaming individuals and address systemic issues? Let's not forget that many people work every day and still struggle to make ends meet due to factors beyond their control.

There's nothing anyone can tell me, individual choices are influenced by circumstances one way or the other.

There are health issues, limited access to quality education, lack of information, discrimination in hiring and promotion and a lot more.

No one would choose to starve to death if they had any choice!

I repeat, no one would choose to languish if they had choices.

Saying that poverty is a choice is more like a pronouncement of belief that people who suffer are to blame for their suffering and no one needs to take responsibility for the harm their actions do to others. Life may cause the modification of this harsh view. Then you will find out that poverty is not a choice for the majority of poor people.

I wouldn't say poverty is a choice but it CAN be a consequence of a person’s behavior. Yes, some people make bad choices in life which results in poverty. While systemic issues and circumstances beyond individual control may contribute significantly to poverty, personal choices and decisions can also lead to it.

I mean, some individuals may make decisions that increase their likelihood of experiencing poverty. When they choose to stay uneducated, they make reckless decisions like unprotected sex and criminal activity, practise poor financial management and even lack discipline and accountability! These choices will perpetuate cycles of poverty.

But have you thought of it that some of these choices are not choices to them? I'm not trying to make up excuses for those experiencing poverty, though, but what of those individuals with health issues and lack of access to education and information?

Hehehehehe

Don't forget that information is power oo, and truly, we've been asked to seek knowledge. However, some people are not capable due to limited resources, mental health, or cognitive abilities affecting decision-making.

There's the systemic barrier too. Discrimination, policy gaps and socioeconomic constraints.

See, to me ehn, someone just waking up and saying that poverty is a choice is not right. Of course, some great people like Thomas Edison, J.K. Rowling, and others have defied the odds in the past and broken the cycle. Yet, we must acknowledge that systemic issues persist, structural barriers hinder progress and individual circumstances differ too!

Don't make anyone feel attacked that they are experiencing poverty because they've chosen to. No, it sounds like getting out of poverty is as easy as the hand finding its way to the mouth while eating.

Defying the odds and walking away scot-free requires a lot.

Okay, you are now rich? How about you empower an individual with resources and opportunities too?

Poverty is complex, and overcoming it requires more than just an individual effort. Success stories often involve support systems.

A NOBODY needs PEOPLE to become a SOMEBODY!

Success cannot be achieved in isolation, and behind every accomplished individual lies a network of people who have contributed to their growth, guidance and progress.

You can be one of those people too, offer help. You see that your friend who just started selling thrifts? Patronise her. You see that your neighbour who's interested in tech? Draw him closer; if you are tech-savvy too, make him learn one or two from you. Be a sounding board, listen and offer advice. Introduce someone to industry connections.

People don't know what they don't know.

Information is power, don't hoard it and go around blaming people for their situations.

When we keep blaming people for their circumstances, it will only discourage them from seeking help. Educate yourself on poverty's complexities and try to relate to other people's personal stories. It's not easy on anyone out there.

Even SDG 1 preaches NO POVERTY. Let's come together and work on this! 🫵