© 2013 by Raymond Alexander Kukkee
Memorial
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
1918-2013
It seems there must be very little that has not
already been said about
Nelson R. Mandela, clearly one of the most charismatic leaders the world has ever seen.
News that a beloved giant, a revered leader of men, women and children alike, a respected president, friend of mankind and mentor — shocked the world even though it was expected, leaving the world diminished.
What remains to be said? Words are not enough.
The beloved and storied ex-President of South Africa passed away in his home at the age of 95, leaving an astounding legacy and creating an outpouring of love, respect and compassion for humanity seldom attributed to any single man. Was he bigger than life itself?
Nelson Mandela was loved by millions, but as with all successful human beings, let's not pretend otherwise; undoubtedly he had outspoken rivals and others disillusioned by his ideology, beliefs, personal life, his presidency of South Africa, and disrespect for his color alone.
The World Weeps Silently
The world weeps silently, tears flow universally, in some ways a contradiction, as South Africans curiously, simultaneously, and joyously celebrate both the funeral and life of one amazing man in Johannesburg. Leaders of countries from around the globe have gathered to bid farewell, sharing stories, condolences, speeches welling with gratitude, heartfelt offerings and world-wide sympathy for, and with people that both weep and dance.
Politicians Continue to be Politicians
Optimistic, and painful memorials seep reflectively, predictably from ineffective politicians—speaking with rhetorical
grandeur of the occasion as mere mortals are wont to do, abjectly aware they are incapable of capturing the smallest aliquot of admiration and respect commanded by Mr. Nelson Mandela.
It seems that Presidents, Prime Ministers and leaders all, also praise Mandela's steadfast, respected leadership- but can only imagine and yearn for the impossible, an unspoken dream to garner just a wisp of the magnetic,almost magic and pervasive power wielded by Mandela for decades. Politicians will be politicians as they bask in euphoric freedom that statesman Nelson R. Mandela held out to them—and seemingly continues to offer — a mythic power and influence beyond the grave.
Attributing the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa to this powerful, driven man is the contemporary message, including a surge in belief in hope for the poor and downtrodden. Peaceful coexistence, forgiveness of past wrongs, the elimination of the eternal struggles of color, and improvement in economic standing of all citizens were not only objectives, but keystones of his policy. Understanding, acceptance, justice, equality, opportunity, and cooperation were practiced by Mandela in life, yet remain complicated, unresolved and ever-moving issues.
Goals of racial equality were special dreams, idolized and projected —perhaps the essence of Nelson Mandela himself. In analysis we must wonder if the world weeps silently, subconsciously knowing the truth—for racism, tin shantytowns still exist, poverty still exists, the rich get richer, and ghosts of inequality and racism return to persist and aggravate, in spite of the man-wonder
Madiba.
No matter, we say, the celebrated illusion of happiness will live on as is the way of optimistic humanity—but
is it only temporary? Is it a fleeting,
celebrated distraction, hypocrisy, everyman's illusion until a new people's
Messiah inspires the next quantum leap in the
eternal transplanting of dreams?
We must ask, '
do crocodile tears ever dry? Is the illusion of success of the great vision now to be shattered by the stark reality of the death of Nelson Mandela?
In a quiet moment of reflection, visions for the future may be seen as impossible, but as history is quick to reveal, the will to make
Madiba's dreams materialize remains with those still alive; those who honour and grieve and work selflessly, gleaning lessons from the past and present —and waste no time, acting with resolve.
Rest in Peace, Nelson R. Mandela.
Is that Incoming I hear?
Photo Credit :
S.Africa The Good News / www.sagoodnews.co.za [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
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Post Views: 198
Thank-you, Ray, for this beautiful tribute to such a fine man. As you say, he was not perfect. But all that he overcame makes him such a hero, in many respects. Overcoming adversity and yet being so dignified… May he rest in peace. May the heavens shelter him and his spirit continue to awaken confidence around the world.
Well said, Christyb, everyone is imperfect; Nelson Mandela was an exceptional individual indeed,– and I’m guessing his achievement won’t be equaled for many, many years . Whether society will continue to honour and follow his ideals–or will they revert to paying only lip service,– is a different issue isn’t it–Thank you for commenting, Christyb! ~R
Everyone is imperfect in some way or the other: normal human trait. But it is what we eventually make of ourselves and our imperfections that count. And Mandela definitely did choose to make a difference despite his imperfections. Each of us will be remembered (however brief the memory) for what we leave behind us. So we have to make every memory count. That’s my reasoning often.
A beautiful tribute and so deserving too. I have personally admired Mandela for his charisma and selfless personality. No doubt, the world will miss a strong pillar in the political and social scenario, but his spirit will live on to inspire and mould future personalities.
Mandy, I certainly hope so. Mandela really did change the world to some degree, for the better–and hopefully the changes are permanent. Regardless, he was an inspiration and has already moulded many minds for the better. Thank you for commenting “:) ~R