When I hear the name Nelson Mandela, I think of the long walk to immortality he took and how many millions his life, words, and steps to immortality affected. Nelson Mandela was not just a Nobel Prize winner. He was a revolutionary leader who stood for the rights of his countrymen, women and children. President Mandela took his stance on justice, freedom and equality. He was a self- made prisoner for 27 years. Yes, I said “self-made prisoner” because he refused to negotiate for his freedom, and steadfastly stuck to his principles quest for freedom for South Africa’s people. President Mandela wanted to be treated as an equal just like the men and women of the white race who controlled South Africa since 1652.
Afrikaner was the name given to the nation of the first white settlement of Africa. This nation was a diverse mixture of Dutch, German and French settlers who were also called white South Africans. There were also the Anglo descendants, mainly British and Irish settlers. They were the largest European-descended population in Africa. The white population numbered five million, or nearly 10 percent of South Africa’s population.
As a young man I watched the release of Mr. Mandela. He was released from prison in 1990. Many supplied assistance in his release, ranging from sophisticated negotiators to political leaders of nations. President Mandela has inspired and helped millions to live the lives they sought in South Africa and with his death he still inspires millions around the world. After prison he became the first black president of South Africa.
Looking forward to the history lesson that will be given about his life in elementary, middle and high schools, the black community need to ensure that the entire story is told and taught so that future generations can be inspired by this great man.
Yesterday he was set free, again.
God has given us many great men who’ve influenced our lives; but President Mandela is on a short list of men who truly influenced the world. God bless him and his family.
–terence merritt
