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Nelson Mandela

In most generations we do not see too many real heroes. In this generation we have been blessed with a real hero - Nelson Mandela.

Much has been said about him and his life and truthfully there is little I can add. He was inspirational, humble and charismatic. While these are not the three qualities we see in most modern leaders today these are not what made Mandela so impressive. What made him impressive was his self sacrifice and his ability to reason above his emotions.

27 years in prison on Roben Island. In the US 27 years served is considered life in prison. Actually, at the rate we are releasing prisoners today that maybe more than a life sentence. In that time any normal man would change and most for the worst. Somehow Mandela changed but for the better. He managed to see past his anger, sorrow and regret. He rose above his emotions for the good of his country. He defeated his own ego and defied his instincts for the greater good.

He came out stronger, compassionate with a vision for his country. He rose above decades of prejudice and hatred. He embraced his enemies thus disarming them completely. He proved what a true leader can accomplish. His spirit was infectious so the world flocked to his door. Sadly many went just so they could say they were "friends" of Mandela but even these self centered hypocrites were affected by his energy and vision.

Imagine if our modern leaders could ever do this. The world would be a much better place. I pray that perhaps his legacy will be to inspire a few of our world leaders to be a bit less self centered and politically motivated, and do more for the common good.

So today we say goodbye to a true hero and live with the hope we will see another rise to take his place in the next generation. RIP Nelson Mandela.

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