I said a hippo. I think many people underestimate a hippo. They look calm and slow. But beneath the water? They are strong and powerful. I admired that a hippo doesn’t need to roar like a lion to be respected. Its presence alone is enough.

I still remember camping in the Delta. At night, you could hear the hippos — it sounds deep, heavy sound in the dark. We were told to stay quiet because hippos can’t see well at night, but they hear really well. That moment stayed with me. Quiet doesn’t mean safe or weak. Sometimes quiet and awareness hold power.

Why a hippo actually makes sense

Calm on the surface. Hippos spend most of their time in water — quiet, watching, not rushing. I hope to learn from it: to become more selective with my energy and prefer depth over small talk.

Strong boundaries. Hippos are peaceful… until you cross their line. I relate to that. I hope to that person who is not aggressive, but clear. I’ve learned to protect my space.

Comfortable in both worlds. Water and land. Same with me — different countries, different cultures. I hope to learn to adapt, but don’t lose myself.

Unexpected power. People don’t always realise hippos are one of the strongest animals in Africa. And I’ve learned this too: the strongest people aren’t always the loudest in the room.

Tagged in:

365Q