As I listened live to the funeral of Nelson Mandela I got thinking about why he has become the worldwide icon for exemplary leadership. You all know his story.
His early years were filled with violence as he led the fight for freedom from apartheid. This led to 27 years in a tiny prison cell as he continued the fight and refused to bend in order to get released. As apartheid ended and he was given his freedom, he forsook revenge for reconciliation as he became president of South Africa. In spite of overwhelming interest in his continuing as president, he left the presidency when his term ended rather than run again, an unusual thing for a president to do…particularly in Africa.
Think about the characteristics of a man or woman able to live such a life. Think about the strength of will, the absolute belief that all should be included and given the chance to prosper, the willingness to relinquish position for the greater good in spite of the wealth and power it promised. Think about someone so able to put the good of others before himself.
Few have such vision and strength of character.
He set an example for the world and the world embraced him. And yet, he did not let the reverence showered on him divert him from his path, the path to empowerment and freedom for all. The idea of creating a culture where all can shine and be their best.
Marvelous tribute to someone who led as few others ever have. His best decision may have been forgoing revenge; others could learn so much from that example!
An excellent summary of a long life lived in the service of others rather than himself. He was someone who took the words “Public” and “Service” to new heights. A pity that so few strive to follow in his footsteps.