Did you know that the nickname of Jerry John Rawlings is “J.J”, which translates to “Junior Jesus”.

Did you know that the nickname of Jerry John Rawlings is “J.J”, which translates to “Junior Jesus”.

Here is the story behind the nickname.

Following a failed coup attempt on May 15, 1979, Rawlings was arrested and court-martialed by the military regime.

During the public trial, the 31-year-old Flight Lieutenant Rawlings refused to blame his subordinates for their involvement. He took full responsibility for the uprising, and delivered passionate speeches condemning state corruption.

His willingness to face a de*th sentence to protect his men transformed him into a populist hero. Ghanaians began referring to his initials “J.J.” as standing for “Junior Jesus,” viewing him as a messianic figure who was willing to sacrifice himself to liberate the common people.

When in the early hours of June 4, 1979, an uprising led by sympathetic military officers and fellow soldiers stormed his detention facility.The rebels blasted open his cell door, physically releasing him from prison where he had been awaiting firing squad.

He attempted a second coup. This time he was successful.

Lesson: Whether it’s a nickname or a real name, most times, names do influence a person’s life.

What lessons have you learned from this inspiring story?