There comes a time where you have to follow through with your convictions, even if it means your own end. Backing down under threats of violence like that really does more lasting damage than you can imagine to your cause. I always ask people who are intelligent but also indolent; what good is knowledge without actions to back it up? I don't know the details about this specific case yet, but I do understand why people will run back to their private lives if given the chance. It just seems like doing so is much worse for your soul than finishing what you started.