It was early morning in Westmore village. Birds sang softly, and the sun slowly rose over the fields. Goats bleated in their pens, and villagers' footsteps echoed as they got ready for another day on the farm.
In Westmore, farming was more than work—it was a way of life. Almost every household owned a small piece of land, and before the sun rises, the villagers were already on their farms, tending their crops with care.
Among them lived Miriam, a young, beautiful, and intelligent lady. She was the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Osei. Though confident in her thoughts, but was naturally shy and preferred the quiet corners of village life. While others enjoyed gatherings and ceremonies, Miriam often stayed away, watching from a distance. Yet deep within her heart lived a dream—one that stretched beyond Westmore, a dream that would soon change everything.
The people of Westmore were deeply rooted in their culture. Ceremonies were often held to celebrate harvest, marriage, and new beginnings. On such days, the village came alive with music, dancing, and laughter. Elders shared stories of the past, while the younger ones gathered to learn the ways of their ancestors.
But Miriam was different.
Though she respected her culture and loved her people, she was never one to stand in the middle of the crowd. She preferred silence to noise, and observation to attention. During gatherings, she often stayed indoors or sat quietly at a distance, watching others from afar. It wasn't that she disliked people—she was simply shy.
Her parents noticed this about her.
Mr. Osei admired his daughter's intelligence and calm nature, while Mrs. Osei worried sometimes, wondering how Miriam would cope outside the comfort of Westmore. The world beyond the village was louder, faster, and less forgiving.
Yet Miriam carried a dream in her heart.
She dreamed of education—of sitting in a classroom, learning new things, and becoming more than what the village expected of her. Many nights, she lay awake imagining herself in a place far from Westmore, a place filled with unfamiliar faces and endless possibilities.
Little did she know that this dream was about to become reality.
It was early morning, Miriam was in the compound, sweeping gently as the cool breeze brushed against her skin. The compound was quiet, except for the soft sound of the broom against the ground. Her mother had stepped out earlier, and her father had gone to see a friend in the neighboring house.
She continued sweeping quietly, enjoying the cool air of the morning. It was just another normal day, or so she thought.
Suddenly, she noticed her mother approaching from a distance. Mrs. Osei's steps were quick, and there was something different about her face—a smile, wide and uncontrollable. Before Miriam could ask what was wrong, her father appeared as well, walking toward them with excitement written all over his face.
"Miriam," her mother called softly.
Before she could respond, Mrs. Osei pulled her into a tight hug.
"My daughter," she said joyfully, her voice shaking with happiness, "by the grace of God, you have been admitted to the university."
Miriam froze.
"What?" she whispered, unable to believe her ears.
Her dad also congratulated her, looking excited.
In that moment, the broom slipped from her hand. Joy, shock, and gratitude filled her heart all at once. She was overwhelmed by the goodness of God and the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Mr. Osei placed his hand on her shoulder, his voice calm but serious. "University life will not always be easy," he said. "You will meet different people and face many challenges. Be strong, focus on your studies, and never be afraid to stand for what is right. This is your future, Miriam. Make us proud."
Mrs. Osei held her daughter's face in her palms and smiled through happy tears. "Miriam, remember who you are and where you come from," she said softly. "Be respectful, be humble, and always put God first in everything you do. The world outside is big, but don't let it change your good heart."
Miriam nodded, holding her parents' words close to her heart. Standing between them in the quiet compound of Westmore, she felt happy and loved. All she had ever thought about was leaving home to continue her education. She never imagined that her life was about to change in
wonderful ways she could not yet see. Something new, exciting, and unexpected was waiting for her — a future filled with learning, adventure, and perhaps even love.