Consider it a blessing when you are persecuted

The commemoration of the Uganda Martyrs on Friday got me thinking about an interesting paradox that should encourage us never to back down from a worthy cause even if death is breathing down our necks. This is the paradox, that what our enemies use to destroy us is the very thing through which we are blessed immeasurably, inspiring the world more even when we are long gone, as the story of the martyrs demonstrates.

In using the basest cruelty to annihilate a group of humble Ugandans for their faith, Kabaka Mwanga ended up achieving the opposite of what was intended. He meant to make an unforgettable spectacle of them; that whoever witnessed or heard of what they went through would never ever entertain the idea of becoming a Christian. Instead, his act emboldened others to follow in the footsteps of the martyred believers much like the feeding of the believers to lions in the Roman colosseum by the vicious Emperor Nero had consequently led to a spiritual revival rather than squash Christianity altogether. 

 History is littered with incredible examples that prove that nothing, not even death, can stop something that serves the greater good. That's why by harassing Dr Kizza Besigye, the government has instead turned him into a cult hero because people feel his cause is worthwhile; they are persuaded the change he's advocating for will greatly benefit the country. Dr Besigye is convinced about that as well, a conviction that fuels him to keep on keeping on.

Should you then shrink from an honourable pursuit because of opposition? Not at all, because all the antagonism we face in life is there not to destroy but to bring out the best in us. No one knew the true character and courage of Uganda Martyrs until they faced Mwanga's blazing fire. Likewise you may never know what you are capable of until you are unfairly sacked from your job. There is a daredevil in each one of us, and the tougher the storm the better we become if we don't balk. It's in times of adversity that the spark that transforms individuals and nations is often provided.