Wednesday, August 13, 2008
WHO IS NELSON MANDELA?
WHO IS NELSON MANDELA?
As the twentieth century drew to a close, many people looked back at the last hundred years to try to make sense of all the changes that took place. There were two terrible world wars--in which millions of people died--as well as further wars and conflicts, some of which continue to this day. To some observers, it seems as though there is no way in which hatred and injustice can be defeated.
SHINING EXAMPLE
Other people take a more hopeful view, looking at the work of brave individuals who have suffered greatly in order to promote peace and equality. Nelson Mandela is one such individual. Born in a country in which the majority of the population was denied basic HUMAN RIGHTS, he nevertheless managed to educate himself and become a leading figure in the efforts to improve life in South Africa.
In the end, he did succeed in improving life for the people of his country. Along the way, Mandela suffered even more than his countrymen from the harsh political system in South Africa. The cruel system of APARTHEID made it almost impossible for non-whites to find good housing, work, or even the means to travel within their own country. In addition to this, his efforts to promote change led to nearly 30 years in prision.
EXTENDING A HAND
Nelson Mandela's long period in prision only strengthened his will to improve life in his country. The world gradually became aware of his struggle and offered support to his cause. Nelson Mandela waited patiently until a South African leader arrived who was prepared to listen to the international community, and who was willing to release him.
Without sacrificing any of his ideals, Nelson Mandela emerged from prison and was able almost immediately to change the face of South Africa. Again, the world welcomed his efforts. He never claimed to be a saint, just a man who was determined to make his country a better place for everyone living there. Even as leader of South Africa, he met difficulties, but he led the country by his own example of courage, decency, and fairness. For these simple virtues, tested by the harshest opposition, he remains an example for the whole world.
As the twentieth century drew to a close, many people looked back at the last hundred years to try to make sense of all the changes that took place. There were two terrible world wars--in which millions of people died--as well as further wars and conflicts, some of which continue to this day. To some observers, it seems as though there is no way in which hatred and injustice can be defeated.
SHINING EXAMPLE
Other people take a more hopeful view, looking at the work of brave individuals who have suffered greatly in order to promote peace and equality. Nelson Mandela is one such individual. Born in a country in which the majority of the population was denied basic HUMAN RIGHTS, he nevertheless managed to educate himself and become a leading figure in the efforts to improve life in South Africa.
In the end, he did succeed in improving life for the people of his country. Along the way, Mandela suffered even more than his countrymen from the harsh political system in South Africa. The cruel system of APARTHEID made it almost impossible for non-whites to find good housing, work, or even the means to travel within their own country. In addition to this, his efforts to promote change led to nearly 30 years in prision.
EXTENDING A HAND
Nelson Mandela's long period in prision only strengthened his will to improve life in his country. The world gradually became aware of his struggle and offered support to his cause. Nelson Mandela waited patiently until a South African leader arrived who was prepared to listen to the international community, and who was willing to release him.
Without sacrificing any of his ideals, Nelson Mandela emerged from prison and was able almost immediately to change the face of South Africa. Again, the world welcomed his efforts. He never claimed to be a saint, just a man who was determined to make his country a better place for everyone living there. Even as leader of South Africa, he met difficulties, but he led the country by his own example of courage, decency, and fairness. For these simple virtues, tested by the harshest opposition, he remains an example for the whole world.
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