Rivaan Roopnarain, News24 User
On May 10 1994, presenting the first democratic Inaugural Address, Nelson Mandela captivated the world's attention, with such grandeur, on his vision for this country. What a vision it was: utterly beautiful, filled with pride and exulting hope.
The life of Nelson Mandela is picturesque testimony of a man who exuded humility, integrity and dignity in every facet of his life, utilising it to surpass being just a politician, to becoming the very hallmark of the democratic process.
In an era marked with politicians being synonymous with shadowy devices and burdened with clouds of questions enveloping them, Nelson Mandela has come to typify the unbridled definition of uprightness and honesty, of integrity and steadfast discipline, of serving the people of a nation with nothing short of sheer benevolence.
The Republic of South Africa, being whole-heartedly indebted to this extraordinarily distinguished human being, must perpetually bear in mind and look upon his life's work to reaffirm his dream, while seeking to entrench it in day to day being.
As the 18 of July commemorates the birth of this iconic figure, it should be more than just a reason to celebrate. It is not enough that we are moved towards wishing this remarkable man well on his birthday simply out of a sense of patriotism or civil duty, but it should be the measure of this human being, and his dream, that should compel us.
The vision that Nelson Mandela envisaged for this country was a vision moulded by, above all else, reverence and respect for humanity.
The issues that plague this nation, and in large part, this continent, bear much root in the failure to implement that same principle - human rights are worth little more than an attractive concept for Africa to advertise to the world rather than implement with non-indulgent discipline.
It is for these reasons that we must look upon those in the ilk Nelson Mandela to reacquaint ourselves with the unrivalled importance of value for human life and dignity.
We should be grateful
Perhaps the greatest of all characteristics of a leader who is to transcend to immensity, is the trait of being able to identify when to nobly pass over the baton of leadership when circumstances necessitate, and, actually being able to execute the act. Nelson Mandela has done this with incomparable grace, and, far from being merely a figure that our contemporary leaders should seek to emulate; it is his sense of integrity that every person in a position of responsibility should feverishly aim to uphold.
For in a time when integrity appears an ailing preconception, it is those in the select-clique of having matchless regard for humanity than we should be grateful for, beyond measure. Thank you, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela; for all that you have done, for prizing us with your vision for a better tomorrow, for being the benchmark of honour and integrity.
The greatest gift that we can offer you is ensuring that your dream consistently bears fruition. Happy Birthday Mr Mandela. May you be blessed.
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