Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela- “he now belongs to the ages”. Madiba as he is fondly called was a revered statesman whose great life became a critical contribution to the liberation of what is now known as a free nation. The event of his transition to the great beyond a few days ago left the world in a sombre state despite the clear understanding that a day like this would come.
Consequently, the air has been filled with an unceasing influx of eulogies around the globe. The world and it’s leaders have and are still making great remarks that could serve as vistas of Madiba’s significance and nobility. For the past few days I’ve seen epitaphs that could be merged into templates of greatness for all humans.
In the words of the South African President, Jacob Zuma- “Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father”. He also said that ” we saw in Madiba what we seek in ourselves”.
“We have lost the most influential, courageous, and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this Earth” Obama posited.
However, Nelson Mandela led a purposeful life, one that exemplified great values, humility, compassion, love and respect for humanity. How else do we describe the huge sacrifices he made for the freedom of his people and humanity at large? From the so many struggling days away from family and friends to the long isolated years behind bars; the austere pursuit of a nation free of oppression and segregation, to the inflexible resolution to achieve this cause against all odds. The peaceful and free lives of his people can be attributed to this noble struggle against apartheid. The honest resolve to see the other man live freely without discrimination took him and his cohorts through the long walk to freedom.
Moreover, amidst the mourning and celebration of a great life, we can draw up lessons from Mandela’s way of life and leadership style. He treated all man equally with respect and love, and was able to inspire his followers to live a life that transcends mere existence – one lived with conscious efforts to contribute great values to the world. This noble lifestyle earned Madiba a robust goodwill that surpasses monetary valuation, one that his family, friends and the entire world will continuously tap from.
Again, he taught us to lead selflessly with love for humanity and to be forgiving at all times.
I leave us with the words of this great icon as a conclusion, for us to consider carefully and draw up the lessons inherent.
“I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”
This was Mandela’s closing statement from the dock at his trial in 1964.
Rest well Madiba, the world will always remember you.
Live Responsibly! Live Well!!
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I am Adefiranye Razaq ‘Gbenga.
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