Take A Deep Breath And Keep Moving

To all my young people graduating this year 

When I graduated from Makerere University many years ago, my dream was that by now, I would be living a lavish life—rich, with my wife and children, in a grand mansion on a picturesque Lake Victoria island. 
Why that remains a dream, well, I can explain 

But before I delve into that, I want you to know that one of two things will happen for you. You'll either become as wealthy as the man in my dreams, or you'll join the majority—the majority who struggle to find a job, who progress slowly, and who face life's challenges head-on.

If you find yourself in the majority, here’s my advice: TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND KEEP MOVING.

In a few years, you might see your classmates or even juniors holding important positions in the public or private sector. On a tough day, after dropping off your 60th CV and walking 20 kilometers on an empty stomach, you might encounter an old schoolmate in a luxury car who asks, "So, what are you up to these days?" TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND KEEP MOVING.

You'll avoid wedding meetings. You'll run out of outfits for all the weddings you’re invited to. WhatsApp groups will be a source of torment as old friends boast about new cars or smooth-running construction projects. TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND KEEP MOVING.

If you're fortunate, you might land a job below your qualifications. While earning a living, you may feel embarrassed, and people might think you're cursed. You could get evicted from a single room, or sneak away from another to avoid arrest. You might even return to your village, only to face ridicule. TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND KEEP MOVING.

You may lose friends. Relatives might avoid you. Your first ten business ventures could fail before their first anniversary. Clients might refuse to pay. TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND KEEP MOVING.

Live within your means. Don’t let social pressure push you into crime. Be kind. Respect everyone. Recognize the allies God places in your path. Don’t let academic qualifications or social labels stop you from taking a "humble" job.

In the end, one of two outcomes awaits you. You'll either achieve success and wealth or remain part of the majority—the majority who won't own their dream car or house, who will raise their children in rented homes, and who may not afford international schools for their kids. TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND KEEP MOVING.

Life has taught me that happiness must be found in your current situation. It has also taught me that success is not a one time venture but an accumulation of gains, however small.

As we used to say in our examination days: Go out there and break a leg! Pursue your dreams because it's better to try and fail than to regret never trying.

May the odds be in your favor!


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