It happens almost every time. A public figure passes away, and suddenly, the timelines are flooded with tributes, kind words, and heartfelt stories. People we’ve never heard speak about them before now call them “an inspiration.” Quotes, photos, and memories begin to trend, almost as if the person has become more valuable in death than they ever were in life. We should celebrate people while they are still with us to appreciate their impact.
But here’s the tough question: why do we wait until people are gone before we celebrate them?
It’s important to recognize the contributions and influence of those around us. We must learn to celebrate people for their achievements, kindness, and the joy they bring to our lives.
Ultimately, we should always celebrate people while they are alive, embracing their presence and honoring their stories.
The Mohbad Example
Take the case of Mohbad, the young Nigerian singer whose sudden death shook the nation. While alive, he often shared his struggles through his music and hinted at the battles he was facing. Yes, he had fans, but he also had critics, and many times, his pain seemed overlooked. Then, the moment news broke of his death, millions of people who had barely spoken his name before suddenly filled the internet with tributes. Candlelight processions were held in different states, hashtags trended globally, and his songs topped charts posthumously.
It showed us something very real: sometimes people see your value most clearly when you’re no longer here to enjoy it.
A Pattern We See Everywhere
This isn’t just about Mohbad. Think about Sound Sultan, who was appreciated more after his passing; or even globally, Chadwick Boseman, who battled cancer quietly while giving us legendary performances, only for the world to erupt in tributes when he was gone. The same can be said of Nipsey Hussle, who was recognized by many only as a community builder and visionary after his death.
The pattern repeats: ordinary people are ignored while alive, but praised endlessly once they can no longer hear it.
Read More: It Was Never Them — It Was Your Love That Made It Feel Special
Why Do We Do This?
Maybe it’s because death jolts us. It forces us to pause and reflect on what really matters. It reminds us that life is fragile and tomorrow isn’t promised. We suddenly realize the person we took for granted won’t post again, won’t perform again, won’t laugh or cry again. And in that moment, appreciation becomes urgent — even though it’s too late for them to feel it.
But if we truly care, shouldn’t celebration happen now, while people can still hear it, feel it, and be encouraged by it? We need to celebrate people before they’re gone — not when it’s too late.
Celebrate People Now
You don’t need to wait for someone’s obituary to write about their greatness. You don’t need to wait until your friend is gone to tell them they inspire you. The flowers that mean so much on a grave would mean even more in someone’s hands while they’re still alive.
Think about your parents, siblings, or friends — how often do you tell them how much they mean to you? Or do you assume they know? Sometimes, a simple word of encouragement could be the reminder someone needs to keep going.
A Call to Action
So here’s a challenge for all of us:
- Celebrate loudly. Tell people when they’re doing well. Don’t wait for the crowd before you clap.
- Love openly. Don’t hold back your gratitude. A phone call, a kind text, or a post can go a long way.
- Support daily. Don’t just mourn after the fact; show up now in small, consistent ways.
Because the truth is, life is short, and your words could be the reason someone finds the strength to keep pushing. Don’t let your love and appreciation become an echo after someone is gone. Let it be a voice they can hear today — celebrate people before they’re gone.
