Nelson Mandela, an icon of freedom, a man of great character and determination, has passed on. As the world mourns his death, let us reflect on his life and vision which embodied the “promise of change for better”.
He was a man who epitomized those instincts that many wish they had and others could truly emulate. While reviewing some of his numerous speeches many strong characteristics emitted from his words and behaviour – strong leadership, humility, the power of forgiveness, fearlessness, selflessness and reconciliation.
He led true to his convictions. “I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination,”?he once said. “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.”
How many of us are willing to stand on principle, on our true convictions for what we believe is correct? We live in fear of the consequences or ‘backlashes” should we speak out. We continue to be mentally enslaved as “craftsmen of our fate”.
Mandela reminds us that ‘there is no easy walk to freedom anywhere and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires.”
He also said, “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
He further reminded us that “the human body has an enormous capacity for adjusting to trying circumstances. I have found that one can bear the unbearable if one can keep one’s spirits strong even when one’s body is being tested. Strong convictions are the secret of surviving deprivation; your spirit can be full even when your stomach is empty.”
Too often people have the propensity to hold on to the wrong that others have done to them. They become bitter and vindictive. This hinders their growth spiritually, emotionally and mentally.
Rid yourself of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. Do not become oppressed. Forgive and let go and you will be amazed at your growth and blessings.
Mandela reminded us that “if you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner”. He also posited that “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Just as Mandela was able to live to realize his dream, you too can do the same.
“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela.
Nelson Mandela has left a legacy one that will live on in all of us in some way. May he rest in peace.
• Rhonda A. Blackman is an educator, national development scholar and former president of the Early Childhood Association of Barbados Inc.
