ACE #78: Remembering the Iconic Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was the consummate advocate for peace, change, and equality.  When he refused to bow down to the South African government in their upholding of apartheid, he became a household name, but also a prisoner. Yet he stood as a symbol of the "moral center" of South Africa.  People have said that he is the last "great, pure leader".  What an honor to be called such, what a legacy, but perhaps there were days when maybe it was a burden that weighed heavily on his heart, especially when tragedy struck his family and he could do nothing about it.  He spent 27 years behind prison bars for just "standing" on his principles.  How many of us today, at this moment, have the courage to just "stand" for any cause?

Mr. Mandela practiced "Radical Forgiveness".  His heart, soul, and mind could not be contained - even behind prison bars.  On February 11, 1990 he was set free.  My cousin and one of my friends went to downtown Lexington in Triangle Park where they were holding a rally.  There were signs, candles, chants, and speeches.  I didn't understand the magnitude of such an event at the time.  After all, we weren't taught the significance of the cause in the public school system.  In the words of Maya Angelou, "I know why the caged bird sings..." - now. He didn't just "make" history, he changed history as South Africa's first black president and an instrument of peace against racial oppression.

President Barack Obama said that Mandela is "with the angels"; I contend that he's one of the angels now, but certainly with God.  The world mourns the loss of "Madiba".

Matthew 25:23, "'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"

 

 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela

July 18, 1918 – December 5, 2013 

 

Photo credit: biography.com