Embracing Change: A Poet's Journey from Disillusionment to Action

The author recounts a challenging experience upon being elected vice president of the Poets Association of Uganda (PAU) two years prior. The organization, relatively young at the time, was already plagued by internal divisions and corrupt practices. This situation presented a difficult “poisoned chalice” to navigate.

When the personal ambitions of some members overshadowed the organization’s goals, the author offered their resignation, a move mirrored by most of the cabinet. However, unlike the others who finalized their departures, the author was persuaded to remain and continue the work, despite the evident issues.

This decision stemmed from a desire to actively contribute to solutions rather than merely point out problems. Instead of getting bogged down in critiquing what was wrong with the PAU and, by extension, Uganda, the author and others who remained committed to embodying the positive changes they hoped to see. This approach is framed as a proactive stance: becoming the change rather than waiting for it.

The article implicitly contrasts this active, constructive approach with passive criticism. It suggests that true progress comes from individuals and groups willing to engage with challenges, even within flawed systems, and work diligently towards improvement. The author’s personal experience with the PAU serves as a microcosm for a broader call to action for citizens to actively shape a better Uganda.

This commitment to being the change is highlighted as a more effective path forward than dwelling on the negative. By focusing on constructive action and positive representation, the author and their colleagues aimed to set an example and foster a more desirable environment within the literary community and beyond. The narrative underscores the importance of personal agency in driving societal transformation.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/becoming-the-change-we-want-5601574