It is sometimes rather bewildering when dealing with one’s own conscience. It’s easy to stand up and fight for justice when it pertains to the wellbeing of someone else. But when it comes to our own wellbeing, in the face of injustice, we’re obligated to deal with our conscience. This is because fighting for justice, when we’re the ones facing oppression and injustice, confronts us with the fine line between cruel vengeance and the truly noble duty of upholding justice.

Finding the delicate balance between these two similar acts (which have starkly contrasting motivations) is a challenge. But one cannot cop out just because the challenge is too big. It is one’s Christian duty to educate one’s neighbour to uphold justice above all political and bureaucratic concerns.

So here’s the thing: it’s time for action. And take action I will. But as I do so, I will constantly examine my motivations for so doing. In upholding justice and educating others to do the same, I must consistently reflect the virtue of grace; yet, it must be a grace which does not compromise the importance of justice.

My actions must reflect virtues that transcend all the furious anger lurking within me at having to face injustice and suffer false accusations. Each step of the journey towards the upholding of justice must be thoughtful, reflective, and gentle - but firm.

Upholding justice is an art. And I think I’m in the process of learning that art now. I’ve never had a problem speaking up for others, but all my life, I’ve had a problem speaking up for myself; as if others deserved justice but I didn’t. The journey towards justice must begin somewhere. So it’s time for action.