Sometimes in life, we dream of something better: a new job, a new friend, a new relationship, a new leader, or even a new life. We imagine how perfect it would be and how it will solve all our problems. But many times, what we wish for may not be what we truly need. That’s why there is the saying: Be careful what you wish for.

Wishing is not wrong. It helps us hope, grow, and plan. But not all that glitters is gold, appearance often differs from reality. Something may look good on the outside but bring trouble on the inside. That’s where the saying “The enemy you know is better than the angel you don’t know” comes in.

This means the problem or person you’re already dealing with, even if they’re difficult, might be safer than a new one who seems perfect but turns out worse. You already know how to handle your current challenges. You know what to expect. But with someone new or something unknown, you may be surprised in a bad way.

What Then Should Be Considered?

Be careful what you wish for: the enemy you know may be better than the angel you don’t. Do I agree? Definitely. But that doesn’t mean one should surround oneself with enemies, it simply means one shouldn’t let biases blind them from an holistic view of their current reality in respect to their desires and wishes.

It is essential to:

• Think deeply before making a big change.
• One shouldn’t be led simply by emotions. Take time to understand the full picture.
• Ask yourself, “am I running from something bad, or chasing something truly better?”
• Learn from the past before jumping into the unknown.

Sometimes, the thing one is running from is not perfect, but it’s familiar. One knows its limits, of which may not be as bad as what’s hiding behind a shiny new promise.

In Summary

Be careful what you wish for. Not every angel is truly an angel. The enemy you know, though not perfect, may be better than the unknown you are rushing into. Rather than simply making moves out of desperation, be wise, be patient, and always look beyond the surface before making a change.

©️Victor E. Ojei, 2025.