Many years ago, in a small village called Oke-Ira in southwestern Nigeria, there lived a young man named Ade. Ade was hardworking and clever, but he had one weakness—he always delayed important matters. He often said, “I will do it later. There is still time.”

One market day, an old woman with a walking stick arrived in the village. She carried a small talking drum and called the people together under the big iroko tree. She said, “This drum carries a special blessing. Whoever beats it with a sincere heart will receive one great opportunity that can change their life. But remember, the drum will speak only once.”

The villagers were excited. Some rushed forward, but their hearts were full of greed and pride, so the drum remained silent. Ade stood at the back and laughed softly. He told himself that he would try after everyone else.

As the sun began to set, the old woman announced that she would leave the village at dawn. That night, Ade became restless. He realized that he might lose his chance. Before the cock crowed, he ran to the village square and begged the old woman to allow him try.

Out of pity, she agreed. Ade lifted the drumstick, but as he was about to strike the drum, he paused, thinking too long about what to ask for. Suddenly, the drum broke into pieces and turned to dust.

The old woman looked at him and said sadly, “My son, you delayed when you should have acted. Opportunities do not wait forever.” She then walked away and was never seen again.

Ade returned home full of regret. From that day onward, he changed his ways and advised young people in the village never to joke with chances that come their way.

Moral: Opportunities come but once.