It was magic. Madiba magic. For 21 years after his release from prison he showed South Africa and the world the meaning of forgiveness and pursuing good.

Nelson Mandela, forgiver, leader, example, freedom fighter, reconciliator; visionary father of a nation has passed away. He made a nation, from a diverse community of many historical and conflicting peoples and beliefs he was able to build a strong ‘proudly South African’ nation, as multi-coloured as the rainbow. South Africa and the world is a poorer place today.

May you rest in peace, Madiba and may your legacy continue to inspire, guide and lead our beautiful but complex South Africa.

And allow me to (also) quote those beautiful words of Jan F Celliers, which he wrote for General Christiaan de Wet and which is so applicable to you and your life:

‘Stil, broers, daar gaan ‘n man verby.

hy groet,

en dis verlaas.

Daar’s nog maar één soos hy;

bekyk hom goed.’

Loosely translated and unfortunately probably losing its impact these words are

‘Quiet men, there’s a man passing by

He greets

And its for old time’s sake.

There’s but only one like him

Observe him well’

Rest in peace Madiba.

Goodbye Tata

‘For 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

Please view this videoclip on Youtube