When I heard the news of Nelson Mandela’s death, first I was shocked, then I couldn’t hold back the tears.  A giant the likes of Ghandi and Martin Luther King, he overcame anger and social injustice and modeled for an entire world kindness, humility, peace, and above all, reconciliation.  Mandela’s enormous courage, perseverance and vision were a beacon to show us a better way, a real humanity.  We all are beneficiaries of this man’s graciousness, selflessness, spirit of hope, and especially his brilliant light.  He was a “torch bearer” for our time.  I am grateful we had a Nelson Mandela. So rather than shed tears, I know I must celebrate with South Africans and others the life that was a gift to the world.

Leave a Reply