Madiba ... may your legacy live on

Tata Madiba, may your legacy live on....

Born July 18, 1918 .... passed away December 5, 2013

Today, Tuesday the 10th of December is the Memorial service of Nelson Mandela or Tata Madiba as people knew him. We also spent the day in prayer and reflection on Sunday, just paying tribute and respect to one of South Africa's greatest men.  A day to reflect what Madiba stood for, what he fought for and what he would like South Africans and other Countries to embrace, live out and put into practice to make this world a better place.  He would not want anyone to digress from his fight against equality.

“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do” – Nelson Mandela

Mandela showed us that hate is out of the question but love is what life should be all about. He did everything with love, especially loving children. Mandela was such a humble man; he loved people, always smiling and exerted friendliness. He off course devoted a lot of his time to children, not only to the less fortunate kids, but all kids.  He always tried to empower kids and made sure their well-being was improved.  That is what one of his organisations stood for, the Mandela Children’s Fund. Mandela supported 22 charities and foundations.... wow, what an example he was to us.

“Man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished” – Nelson Mandela.

Mandela was such a good example how forgiveness can make the world whole.  He was described as the most influential and most forgiving person on earth.  We can learn a lot from him about forgiveness.  Need I say more, he never kept any feelings of resentment or bitterness towards anybody, forgave those who wronged him and fought to sow unity in our nation.   That shows the character he had as a person.  He was an upstanding man full of understanding.  He surely made me understand that we can change the world bit by bit by changing our attitudes.

“I hate race discrimination most intensely and in all its manifestations. I have fought it all during my life; I fight it now, and will do so until the end of my days” – Nelson Mandela.

Mandela was part of "The Elders" (world leaders) promoting peace, women's equality and various other initiatives to promote democracy and address humanitarian crises across the world.

“Those who conduct themselves with morality, integrity and consistency need not fear the forces of inhumanity and cruelty” – Nelson Mandela

What is extremely striking is that in South Africa today we will have 92 Statesmen that will attend his Memorial Service from all over the world. So many statesmen are in battle with each other but for one common cause and a great man they are standing together peacefully. That is so amazing. As Nelson said in one of his quotes “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner”.  I just think it is phenomenal that even in death Nelson can bring peace across the world.

“Death is something inevitable. When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace. I believe I have made that effort and that is, therefore, why I will sleep for the eternity” – Nelson Mandela

Yes, so true Tata Madiba, you have done your duty across the world, may what you have fought for make an impact across the world forever and may your soul rest in peace. A great man!  We will always remember your warm smile and celebrate your life.  One man that indeed changed the world.