Awareness

George Santayana's famous quote, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it," serves as a stark warning. In "The Life of Reason," he emphasized the importance of learning from history. Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo are stark examples of the devastating consequences that follow when this wisdom is ignored - a fact that humans often ignore. Conflicts don't fall from the sky; they're fueled by a small group of people prioritizing their interests over the country's well-being. Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, nicknamed by Winston Churchill in his book 'My African Journey' published in 1908, is heading down a dangerous path, similar to Sudan's descent into civil war. The denial of peaceful transition of power always leads to war, which spares no one. Are we willing to sacrifice our country for temporary power? History shows that even powerful nations fall victim to the uprising of the common people. Our leaders are

 I dedicate this to Rihanna, because she's one of the few celebrities whose lifestyle and music actually make me understand that music is all about inspiring, entertaining, and motivating people. The song 'Lift Me Up' was just what I needed to keep myself trying again. Even though there's no one close to me to hold me and hug me, the song reminds me that my guardian angels always fill that space to hug me. The queen of Barbados sings songs that make me feel like everything is okay, even when nothing is okay. People who struggle have music as the only thing that tells them that everything is okay. And they always appreciate when someone famous comes down to say hello. When she came to Malawi on a program, she acted like a Malawian, and in India, even the common people had a selfie with her. All her songs are what we listen to when getting to work, even when our bosses rain insults on us. We know that we shall stand under Rihanna's umbrella, and the day will get done.

The joy of every child is to have a loving mother and father. Yet, lust, a fleeting pleasure, can shatter this joy, leaving a trail of destruction. As I walk through the streets, I see children searching for scraps, fighting to survive. Some become criminals, imprisoned by their circumstances, while others meet an untimely end. The harsh reality is that 99% of criminals torturing the peace and beauty of this world lacked the charity of a mother's love and a father's discipline. Lust, a temporary desire, leads to a lifetime of suffering. Unplanned children, rejected and abandoned, are forced to fend for themselves. Men and women, blinded by lustful desires, are responsible for the surge in street children and rising criminality. The consequences of lust are staggering. Why would murderers exist if children were given complete charity? How would they steal if they were planned for? How will they hate if they were given love? Note this; “the hate you give, is the hate you create

 If given the chance to sit in God’s chair, would you grant humanity a second chance? Could you forgive our transgressions and choose to create a new world? Or would you curse human beings and walk away? This question resonates deeply, much like asking a mother whose son has chosen a path of terrorism if she would willingly bear another child. The pain of seeing our own flesh and blood rebel against us, rejecting the love and nurturing we’ve provided, is a sorrow almost too great to bear. In this world, the righteous suffer while the wicked prosper. The cry of the innocent goes unheard, and the beauty that once honored life is destroyed or being destroyed. It’s tempting to wonder what God thinks of us, how He views our rebellion and ingratitude. Have we become so entrenched in our sin that we’ve forced God to turn away from us? The thought is both haunting and sobering. As I ponder the state of humanity, I am met with a mix of emotions – sorrow, disappointment, and frustration. Despite

As children of this generation, we face unimaginable struggles in our pursuit of success. The harsh reality is that we must hustle relentlessly, often to the point of exhaustion, to turn our dreams into reality. We suffer in silence, as if we have no one to turn to, no family to support us. We toil tirelessly, our sweat and tears watering the soil of our dreams, yet the very people we trust to nurture our growth instead crush our spirits with empty promises. The pain of disappointment pierces our souls like a dagger, leaving scars that never fully heal. We’re told to “wait” and “have faith,” but the waiting game is a never-ending cycle of despair. I write from personal experience, having faced similar challenges. Writing brings me joy, but the obstacles I encounter make it difficult to pursue my passion. My ultimate dream is to work with renowned animation studios like Disney or DreamWorks, but this goal seems as elusive as climbing Mount Everest without support. Oh, the agony of watch

As I sit down to write about Americana, I am overwhelmed with emotions. More than twenty years have passed since our paths first crossed, yet the lessons he taught me remain etched in my heart. Americana was more than a mentor; he was a guardian angel who appeared in my life when I needed guidance the most. His unwavering belief in me, his unrelenting support, and his unshakeable optimism helped shape me into the person I am today. Americana showed me that true strength lies not in wealth or status but in character, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. One of the most precious gifts Americana gave me was the understanding that life is about living for others. He instilled in me a sense of purpose, encouraging me to strive for a life that would make a difference in the world. My time with Americana was a blessing. He shared his life with me, answering my questions, and showing me the value of charity, love, and protection. He taught me that family is not just about blood ties

I am Waiswa, and I have come to realize that the ways of God are truly mysterious and awe-inspiring. His love is beyond human comprehension, and it's a love that has transformed my life in ways I never thought possible. Growing up, I faced numerous setbacks and challenges that left me feeling lost and hopeless. But in those darkest of moments, God showed up in unexpected ways, revealing His love and grace through the kindness of strangers and the unexpected turn of events. One particular experience that stands out was when I found myself trapped in a debt cycle with no clear way out. The month of May was especially terrifying, as I frantically searched for a solution, traveling from city to city, seeking help from anyone who would listen. But every door I knocked on seemed to lead me towards a dead end. It was then, when all hope seemed lost, that God intervened in a miraculous way. Through a chance connection on social media, I met someone who would become an instrument of God'

Life may not have met your expectations today, but remember that it's short and precious. Don't let disappointments weigh you down. You didn't get that job or maybe someone broke your heart. But you still have the power to smile, even if it feels forced. Your smile is your shield against the world's cruelty. It's a reminder that you deserve happiness, no matter what others think or say. You don't need anyone's approval to smile; it's your independent choice, your declaration of independence from the world's expectations and judgments. I've spent years trying to make others understand me, but I realized that it was a waste of time. What matters most is my own happiness. I do what makes me smile, even if it seems weird to others. When I'm alone, I imagine myself as a rockstar or action hero, dancing and singing in my underwear with reckless joy. It's my way of taking back control and finding joy in the midst of chaos. Life can be tough, but

I know we've been through our fair share of struggles and disagreements. We've argued and quarreled time and time again, but despite all of that, my love for you remains unwavering. I don't care about the past or the mistakes I've made; all that matters is the love I have for you, and the fact that you were the first person I ever loved. I know I've hurt you, and for that, I am truly sorry. My actions were thoughtless, and I broke your heart. But please know that my love for you is genuine, and it can't be changed by my mistakes or the challenges we've faced. I may not be perfect; I may be a little or more rough around the edges, but my heart belongs to you. My mind may wander, my eyes may stray, and my feet may take me on a different path, but my heart will always find its way back to you. The world may try to tear us apart, but our love is stronger than that. They may try to silence our laughter and our smiles, but we won't let them. If I were God, I w

 I'm a child, just like any other. I have dreams, hopes, and aspirations. But the brutal reality of war has robbed away my childhood, leaving me to face unimaginable suffering and fear. My name is Leila, and I'm from a country torn apart by conflict. I once dreamed of singing like Rihanna, performing on stage, and bringing joy to people's lives through music. But the sounds of gunfire, explosions, and screams have replaced the melodies I once loved. War has become my reality, and I'm not alone. Countless children like me are caught in the crossfire, paying the price for the greed and hatred of adults. We're forced to flee our homes, leaving behind everything we hold dear. We're hungry, thirsty, and tired, with no end in sight. The world calls us "collateral damage," a term that numbs the conscience and dehumanizes our suffering. But we're not just statistics or casualties of war. We're children, with hearts that beat, minds that dream, and soul

As I reflect on my experiences, I'm reminded that the greatest risk is not taking any risk at all. For shy men like myself, this phrase takes on a profound meaning. We're often trapped in a prison of our own making, longing to express our feelings but paralyzed by fear. I recall a poignant moment during my campus days when I was smitten with a beautiful woman. She was the embodiment of grace and elegance, and I was captivated. I spent hours crafting an essay to win her heart, but the mere thought of approaching her left me petrified. The words got stuck in my throat, refusing to escape. Time slipped away, and before I knew it, she was gone, swept off her feet by a more confident suitor. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: shyness can be a curse. We shy men are masters of conjuring up fantastical worlds where love blossoms effortlessly, but in reality, we struggle to take the first step. Our minds are a jumble of thoughts and emotions, longing to be set free. We adore w

Throughout history, dictators have followed a similar script, leaving a trail of destruction and devastation in their wake. From Hitler to Saddam Hussein, from Idi Amin to Kim Jong-un, the pattern is eerily familiar. But what drives these individuals to commit such atrocities? The answer lies in a metaphorical book, one that is both deceitful and possessive. This book, which we'll call "Me and Me," has no physical form, but its influence is palpable. "Me and Me" is a conscious entity that takes up residence in the minds of those who seek power and control. It whispers sweet nothings, convincing its hosts that they are invincible, that they will never die, and that everything revolves around them. This book is the ultimate enabler, fueling the ego and justifying the most heinous crimes. Dictators who read from "Me and Me" become trapped in a cycle of self-delusion, unable to see the world beyond their own reflection. They believe themselves to be infall

As a single man, I'm grateful to have witnessed the inspiring union between Bobi Wine and Barbie. Their marriage has taught me the true essence of love, respect, and partnership. Their commitment to each other remains unwavering, and their love continues to flourish. Bobi and Barbie's relationship is a shining example for young people like me, demonstrating that a successful marriage is built on mutual respect, trust, and open communication. They've challenged societal norms and stereotypes, proving that a woman is not a possession or object, but an equal partner deserving of dignity and respect. Their love is a testament to the power of true commitment, and their relationship is a practical embodiment of Jesus Christ's teachings on love and marriage. Bobi Wine's life is a lesson for all of us, and Barbie is a shining example of a woman who empowers a great man. As the saying goes, "behind every successful man is a woman." I've learned that a successfu

Football, or soccer, is the most widely viewed sport globally, and for good reason. It's the only event that welcomes people from all walks of life, regardless of race, nation, or social status. You don't need to be educated or wealthy to play football; all you need is a passion for the game. Football is a game of the common people, and its simplicity is part of its enduring appeal. Football fans are some of the most dedicated and passionate supporters in the world. They'll go to great lengths to support their teams, even if it means sacrificing their own comfort. A fan will often starve to save up for a ticket to the next game, and if their team loses, they'll mourn as if they've lost a loved one. For many, football is a ticket out of poverty. Talent is the only passport you need to make it big in the football world. And once you've made it, the rewards are immense. You'll be treated like royalty, with the best hotels, transportation, and amenities at your

 In school, I was consumed by what others thought of my stammer. But seven years later, I realized everyone was preoccupied with their own lives, and my stammer was irrelevant. They had moved on after school, and few remembered me fondly. This is the harsh truth: people worry about others' opinions, but in reality, it's inconsequential. I sometimes reflect on the bullies and their behavior, because back then, I sought their approval, thinking the world revolved around them. What's tragic is that we squander time worrying about what others say and think, only to discover we've run out of time. Young people struggle to discern reality from fiction. Gossip is fiction, and it's hard to grasp until you're 80. No one meant anything. The youth stage is deceptive, making us think we'll never reach 70 or 80. I'm fortunate to understand this at a young age. Things only the 80 get to understand. At 80, you realize your life was the only thing that truly mattere

 The United States of America is a nation admired by many, and for good reason. Americans are arguably the most patriotic people on earth, with a love for their country that's unparalleled. It's rare to find an American household without a national flag proudly displayed. This devotion has transformed the USA into the greatest country many people aspire to live in, earning it the nickname "The American Dream." What's remarkable about the USA is that it's not the most mineral-rich country, yet it is the wealthiest and most powerful nation globally. This is a testament to the power of unity, love, and patriotism. Americans recognize and nurture talent, make the most of their limited resources, and work together to achieve greatness. They respect the rule of law, honor their constitution, and hold everyone accountable, regardless of status or position. As a Ugandan, I draw inspiration from American patriotism and hope to export this mindset to my own country.

 Born into one of Africa's largest prides, this lion cub had everything: love, care, food, and company. Every morning, his only concern was feeding, playing, and sleeping. But the lion world has a dark culture where young males are chased into exile, forced to fend for themselves. This terrifying rite of passage means leaving behind sisters, cousins, aunts, and mothers, venturing into the unknown. This lion, however, survived, thrived, and conquered a kingdom teeming with antelopes, buffaloes, and zebras. He built a great family, earning the respect of all other animals. But, as fate would have it, another solitary lion challenged his throne, and the fierce battle left him wounded and defeated. He was forced to flee, leaving behind his kingdom, cubs, and lionesses. I watched this documentary with tears streaming down my face as the once-mighty king, now bony and wounded, struggled to survive. He couldn't hunt due to his injuries, and hyenas attacked him at every turn. He hi

 Life is not a journey, as people often say. Even fools make journeys. Instead, life is a collection of moments, and it's up to us to extract wisdom from them or walk away empty-handed. I learned this valuable lesson at a young age, and it has stayed with me ever since. My encounter with Mrs. Nambi Kaneene was brief, but it had a profound impact on my life. Her wisdom, professionalism, and thoughtful interactions left a lasting impression on me. She spoke with intention and deliberation, as if wisdom itself was speaking. Such moments create memories that evoke emotions, spark appreciation, and shape our perspectives. The most precious gift anyone can offer is a moment, whether directly or indirectly. It's up to us to cherish and learn from these moments, for they are all we take with us in the end. I've come to realize that life is not about accumulating wealth, properties, or material possessions; it's about the moments we experience, the memories we create, and th

I'M HERE Bad luck comes running, opportunities crawl, And just as they near, a gust blows them away. I'm lost in the desert, parched and forlorn, Only to find the oases of love and peace have dried up, gone. It's a marathon, but I've barely begun, My hand outstretched, yet no one has stopped to see. Darkness shrouds me, passersby can't see, My heart's door wide open, pleading to be free. Oh, to fly and chase opportunities afar! To dig deep and find the waters, to quench this burning scar! To see with eagle eyes and find the shortcut home! To sing a song that shines a light, to make my voice known! But alas, I'm here, my hand still outstretched, My heart still open, still yearning to be reached. I'm here, beside you, can't you see? I'M HERE...

Trapped and alone, she had nowhere to turn. Rejected by all, including her last hope, the future seemed distant and uncertain. Her soul was heavy with grief, her mind burdened by stress, and her body wracked with confusion - all a result of his lustful desires. Love is a powerful and sensitive force, easily expressed but difficult to genuinely embody. Women are beautiful and alluring, and men often pursue them with empty promises and selfish intentions. He approached her with a deceitful heart, begging for a place in her life. Though she initially resisted, he persisted, claiming he sought a wife, not a fleeting affair. Her kind heart eventually succumbed, and she loved him fully, only to be met with rejection and heartbreak. She endured the pain, holding onto hope that he would return. But on Labor Day, she found herself alone in the delivery room, facing cruel insults from the midwives. With no home to call her own, no friends to lean on, and a crying baby to care for, she was consum

Some people can be incredibly cruel, causing unbearable pain and heartache. We show them mercy, but they exploit our kindness, trampling our innocence and taking what's ours. It's natural to feel unforgiving and hateful when life seems unfair, and the perpetrators go unpunished while we suffer. But holding onto unforgiveness only brings more pain and consumes us with revenge. I experienced this when Gilvan stole my laptop, my most treasured possession. I felt betrayed and angry, even cursing God. But as I reflected, I realized that unforgiveness was only harming me. I had goals to achieve, a future to build, and a family to raise. Carrying hatred and unforgiveness would only weigh me down. Forgiveness wasn't easy, but it freed me from a heavy burden. Unforgiveness is a weight that makes us jealous, restless, and denies us the joy of life's precious gifts. Unforgiveness is a waste of time, and life is short. Instead, let's replace unforgiveness with love, kindness, a

 The wisdom of unity has long been espoused, but it wasn’t until I watched the documentary “Blood Rivals: Lions vs Buffalos” that I truly understood its significance. The documentary tells the story of a lone buffalo, attacked by a pride of lions, and how its herd came to its rescue, saving it from certain death. This powerful display of solidarity and strength in numbers is a lesson for us all, particularly for the African continent. Africa, the cradle of humanity, is rich in resources and cultural heritage, yet it remains the poorest continent in terms of economy and standard of living. We, as Africans, have contributed to our own suffering, starvation, and bloodshed. We have forgotten the sacrifices of our ancestors and the blood they shed during the slave trade. We have abandoned our cultures and traditions, embracing foreign values and norms. But it’s not too late to change course. We can learn from the buffalo, who understand that unity is power. When we stand together, we become

Growing up, I was taught to beware of individuals with unconventional appearances, such as tattoos, dreadlocks, and nonconformist hairstyles. They were labeled as dangerous and criminal-minded. However, as I matured, I realized that the genuine threat was not those who looked different, but those who wore suits and concealed their true intentions. My teacher once told me that my appearance would hinder my success, that I resembled a thug. Yet, after witnessing the cruelty and oppression perpetrated by men in suits, I am proud to embody the qualities they despise. Beneath their suits, they harbor beasts and monsters, exploiting their power to loot, steal, and rob from the vulnerable. Lucky Dube astutely observed, “They initiate wars at will, some for entertainment and personal glory, sacrificing innocent lives for their wrongdoings.” Men in suits are masters of excuses, utilizing their influence to justify their atrocities. Through personal experiences, I have learned to distrust them.

 Kristen Mary, the matriarch of the Kardashian-Jenner clan, is a shining example of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges and heartbreaks, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to rise above adversity and emerge stronger. Her unwavering spirit and courage in the face of hardship make her a role model for women worldwide. Love can be both beautiful and painful, and Kristen Mary's experiences are a testament to this. She has faced the worst of heartbreak, but instead of giving up, she has emerged stronger and more resilient. Her ability to mend her broken heart and continue to believe in love is a superpower that many can learn from. Kristen Mary's story is a beacon of hope for women who have been broken down by love. She proves that it's possible to rise above the pain and find happiness again. Her motto, "don't take no for an answer," is a powerful reminder that we should never give up on love. As a writer, I salute Kristen M

In 1 Samuel 8:5, the people asked Samuel to appoint a king to lead them, but Samuel was displeased with their request. God said, "Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king" (1 Samuel 8:7). Imagine having God as your king - what could He fail to do? What nation could He fail to conquer? How great His kingdom would become! Beautiful streets, abundant food, and remarkable development. But the people requested a change in leadership, demonstrating that even the best arrangements can become stale. A Ugandan wise man once said, "Even the best dancer eventually gets off the stage." Everything in this mortal world has a beginning and an end. Beauty is like a flower that soon withers; it's foolish for a mortal to boast about their beauty, for who will marry them when it fades? When people rejected God as their king, He could have waged war on them, but He chose not to. As the creator, He cou