LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Let us be slow to judge and quick to understand, because destiny rests in the hands of the Lord.

Today, our living example is a true son of the soil Frank Mhango, popularly known as Gabadinho Mhango, currently plying his trade in the South African Premier League.

Gabadinho’s story teaches lessons that books alone cannot, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and faith.

As a young boy, he did not shine in the classroom, struggling to find his footing in academics.

He failed his Junior Certificate of Education (JCE) examinations, which cover Form 1 and Form 2, a setback that could have derailed his future.

He struggled in most subjects, including English, one of the key subjects, leading many to question his potential.

To many, that was the end of the road, a conclusion drawn too quickly, without considering the depths of his talent.

Labels were placed, conclusions were drawn, and some laughed, others lost hope in him, illustrating the harsh judgments we often make.

But while the world was busy judging, God was busy preparing him, quietly shaping his path.

Instead of giving up, Gabadinho focused on what burned in his heart – football, a decision that would change his life.

From dusty grounds to FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, and later crossing borders to South Africa, he let his talent speak, proving his doubters wrong.

Club after club, season after season, he proved his worth, earning recognition and respect.

Today, he is not just a professional footballer, but one of Malawi’s football heroes admired, respected, and celebrated.

The same man once embarrassed by failure is now a source of national pride, a testament to the power of resilience.

This story reminds us of a powerful truth: school is important and valuable but it is not the only gold.

Talent, skill, and art are also God-given paths to greatness, often overlooked in favor of traditional measures of success.

Only God truly knows our destination, a reminder to trust in His plan.

And here is the irony that humbles us all: as we speak, in this 2025/26 AFCON, Gabadinho Mhango is among the analysts reviewing matches on DStv SuperSport speaking, analyzing, and contributing at the highest level of African football.

So today, let us learn: do not be quick to write people off, for we never know the heights they may reach.

Do not judge futures by present struggles, for they may be the very trials that shape greatness.

Do not mock beginnings you do not understand, for the same person you look down on today may inspire a nation tomorrow.

Destiny is God’s handwriting, not human opinion, a truth that sets us free to appreciate the unique paths of others.

The Maravi Post