“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Time has a way of healing deep wounds. Some wounds are deeper than others. The journey of life is full of potholes, corners, hills and steep slopes. As we move along the road of life, each one of us tries to avoid the bad spots. We pray for a straight and clear route free of disappointments and bad luck. However, occasionally, bad luck may visit the family, friends and loved ones. It is a time we all dread. As we pray for a good life, we say more prayers for the strength to endure difficult life moments. Like day follows night, a straight road is followed by a corner. No one has good life through and through. Sickness here. A loss of a friend there. A major setback over there. The journey of life is one of hope and prayer.
I have fond memories of my big sister Immaculate Atugonza (RIP). She was open minded and adventurous. After witnessing the war that brought NRA to power first hand, Immaculate chose to be an active player than a mere observant. Our village Munteme was one of the last strongholds of the NRA guerrillas whose hideout trenches are still visible today, over 35 years later. Around mid-1984, I was a small boy of about five years, but some memories never go. A soldier knocked on our door at about 8pm requesting for water. At the time of the kadogo soldier heroes, we were all looking to supporting the disciplined rebels that came with a message of hope and peace. We opened our house and gave the water. Then the food. And then blankets. And more of the water and food. We gave even more – my big sister. When the war ended, the Munteme camp was moved far to Fort portal and the soldier boyfriend to my sister convinced her to move along. Off she went. That was around 1988. The next time we heard about her was in a hand delivered announcement of her demise, five days after the fact. That was 11 years after she had left home! It was a very painful moment indeed. And the rest followed. She left us without saying bye.
Some of you reading this have had life give you a side kick. The kicks come unexpected in so many forms. You have my prayers. In this month of November dedicated to the souls of the departed, join me in saying the Rosary for the souls of the faithful departed to rest in peace. Always remember who you are. Your people. Don’t forget to visit your people. Make that phone call. It does not matter how well off or bad off you are, just keep in touch. That is the essence of life. Knowing who you are and where you come from. Good luck being your true self.
Bernabas M. Mugisa, Mr. Strategy, helps plant the seed of transformation. Visit www.summitcl.com/boardtools to become a better Board member TODAY.
