The Passing of President Nelson Mandela

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The former President Nelson Mandela of South Africa, and the legendary leader of the African National Congress has died. Many people from different walks of life are mourning the death of Madiba, as the luminary was affectionately called. His life of sustained struggle against the brutal regime of apartheid, undeniably cost him many deep personal losses and untold suffering.

Mandela once said; "I hate race discrimination most intensely and in all its manifestations. I have fought it all during my life; and will do so until the end of my days". *He did!*

His triumphant election as the first President in post apartheid South Africa, was a shared victory for all races around the world. His life's struggles thought the world how different races could live in harmony. He stated on many occasions to his fellow South Africans that, "resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies." He encouraged all races to find peaceful means to resolve their differences.

The yearning to be free is a shared human aspiration. Mandela challenged all to live a life that 'respects and enhances the freedoms of others". He said, "honor belongs to those who never forsake the truth even when things seem dark and grim".

He will be surely missed by those who knew him, and remembered for generations to come. His life has made the world a better, and a more hopeful place.

Madiba, may your soul rest in Peace.

Philip A. Bannor (pbannor2@gmail.com )

General Sec. NPP-USA

*Lead, Serve & Unite*