As humans, we often choose the path of least resistance. Whether it’s an often used route or a new one, when faced with the option to either walk from Zambia to China or fly, the choice is clear.

It’s not about being lazy; it’s about being practical and, dare I say, smart.

Why expend valuable energy on something when you can achieve the same result with less effort?

I woke up to a beautiful morning filled with the sound of birds chirping and the gentle gurgling of my pool. It’s a contrast between man-made and natural elements. One I created, and the other visits occasionally, beyond my control.

Local social media is flooded with posts about the president’s recent trip to Chililabombwe, and it instantly sapped the little energy I had left from doing just five push-ups. (Side note: how do people manage to do a hundred, or even ten? Anyway, I digress)

The news drained me not because I disapprove of his endless work visits, but because it reminded me of my vow to never desire or envy the travels of politicians.

During my brief moment of insanity when I flirted with politics, I had the privilege of accompanying then Vice President Bo Mukwae Inonge Wina on her tour of Western Province.

This is how it went;

Day one: Up and ready by 5am, dressed and prepared by 6am.

I followed Her Honour three steps behind and sat one row behind her for maximum visibility.

In Zambian politics, we believe that proximity to those in power equates to assumed importance by association.

We could call it the Theory of False Power by Association.

The program started at 7am and ended at 4pm, with breaks only during travel between various workstations, speeches, and tours.

Day two: Up at 5am, dressed and ready by 6am.

I maintained my high visibility from the previous day, which seemed to work because now all the cadres are calling me boss, which leaves me feeling rather special.

Day three: Up at 5:45am, ready by 6:30am.

I fell back ten steps behind her and sat in the last row of the tent as she delivered her speeches with the same energy as on day one.

This woman, in her late 70s, showed no signs of the fatigue that I was slowly beginning to feel.

Day four: Up at 6:30am and almost missed the convoy.

No breakfast, and today I’m sitting in the car, just waiting for the next stop. Honestly, I’m just waiting for the day to end.

I couldn’t care less about the theory anymore. I just want to go home and by that I mean back to Lusaka. I've had enough. I'm fed up and dont want to be boss anymore.

Day five: Up at …..….........aaaaargh!

I barely survived that tour, and as we flew back to Lusaka, my head resting against the tiny window, I dreamed of the sound of my pool and birds singing.

I vowed never to envy the life of traveling politicians again. It’s a lot of hard work.

My respect for Bo Mukwae soared after that trip, and now, when I see the president commissioning this and that project from the comfort of my living room, I have great respect for him too.

The most effective politicians often choose to walk rather than fly to 'China'.

So, as I watch the President’s speech in Chililabombwe, I can’t help but let out a little chuckle, because I know that somewhere in those rows of people walking behind the President, is someone who still believes in the Theory of False Power by Association.