Picture, nelsonmandelaonline.net
A lot of people have been writing about Nelson Mandela, which is unsurprising, because he was one of the greatest people of our age and that incredibly rare thing; a wise and good man, in politics. I wanted to say something but I think it best, in this instance, to let him speak for himself. So here are some quotes, pinched from and inspired by Jo Robinson’s post here and his own website here.
On how we live.
As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
-Nelson Mandela
On freedom.
To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.
-Nelson Mandela
On world poverty.
Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity. It is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made, and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.
-Nelson Mandela
On a his ideals.
I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.
-Nelson Mandela
On failure.
The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.
– Nelson Mandela
Truly a giant amongst people. If I can live by one of those, I’ll be happy.
M T McGuire Authorholic 
A very interesting and fitting tribute! Just a minor point – 2015 should perhaps read 2013?
You were quick off the mark there! I changed it while I was still reading back after publishing. But yes, you are correct, because as far as I know we haven’t gone forward in time! Phnark.
Cheers
MTM
Mandela was a truly good and great human being. If he were Catholic he would be sainted. We are fortunate to have lived during his time on Earth.
I agree. He is someone I would have loved to have met. Desmond Tutu was saying that if he had a fault it was being too trusting, but he was so humble that I can see how that happened.
Cheers
MTM