In recognition of this day, the Mandela Foundation calls on all individuals around the world to donate 67 minutes of time to change the world for the better. One minute of public service for every year Mandela estimates he devoted to service to humanity. For all the good Mandela -along with many other inspiring people- was able to bring to his country, continent and the rest of the world - a little over an hour doesn't seem like too much to ask.
As today went by my thoughts often returned to Mandela and the recent time I spent in a tiny country surrounded by South Africa. Lesotho's history is inextricable linked with South Africa and apartheid. It was a safe-haven for many black South Africans during those year, a place to live, access education, and organise against the oppression occurring outside its porous borders. But is also represented exactly what the apartheid government thought was the best solution - an all black enclave separated from other race communities. It's no wonder many South Africans I spoke with had mixed emotions about the time they spent in refuge in this little mountain kingdom.
Now in Ethiopia, a country so proud of having never been colonised, Mandela's life work does not feel any less significant. In this beating hub of Addis where African leaders come from all over to make change happen, the strength in the diversity that is found across this incredible continent cannot be ignored.
And so today on his birthday, I am wishing Mandela the best and good health as he recovers in hospital. But I also know that his legacy and strength is one that will not fade away when the great man leaves this earth. There are far too many people that have already picked up his torch.
No comments:
Post a Comment