The iconic anti-apartheid man named Nelson Mandela, was laid to rest this past Sunday in Qunu, South Africa, where he was born and raised. Over 4000 thousand mourners paid their last respects on Sunday, after a 10 day celebration and remembrance of an extraordinary human being.
Mandela was a man that meant hope to all who knew him and knew of him. He made his purpose in life a forever mission to free the people of South Africa, and was often vilified and ridiculed -- even by America, for trying to do so. He was labeled a terrorist by some, but a terrorist he was far from; terrorists kill and Mandela wanted people to live, and live freely within their own land. This was a man that committed himself to death so that others may enjoy life.
Twenty-seven years Mandela spent in prison; 27 years of innocence behind bars -- paying the price for speaking truth to power. And although his physical being was imprisoned his mind was not. He refused to give his oppressors the one thing that enabled him to press on, so he gave his body instead. After 27 years of reading, writing, praying and struggle, Mandela became more powerful than ever before which ultimately led him to become president of South Africa. His dream had been realized and not just for himself, but for all his fellow South Africans who seemed more like close family than citizens.
Mr. Nelson Mandela may you eternally rest in peace good sir, for your purpose on this earth has been fulfilled; in which I'm sure new works await you on the other side.
2013 LA
