Nelson Mandela: Tribute in Haiku

Not only was Nelson Mandela a revered head of state, he was a visionary. His death gives us cause to celebrate his life. He spent his 95 years as an advocate for change; not for black rights or white rights, but simply for equality. We celebrate his life in haiku.

1) July 18, 1918

Nelson Mandela was born Rolihlahla Mandela, into Thembu royal family in Mvezo, a village in south-east South Africa.

Rohilahla’s birth

meant a savior was born

Little did they know.

2) 1940

Mandela was expelled from Fort Hare University College in a dispute over student rights, when he took part in a student demonstration.

Already the thirst

for change ran through his veins, and

his quest expels him

3) 1952

In 1952, he established South Africa’s first black law firm in Johannesburg with Oliver Tambo as his partner.

A first of many

firsts; A step in the struggle

To fight for their rights. read more.

Nelson Mandela: President, Prisoner & Role Model for Humanity

Nelson Mandela has passed away in Johannesburg at 5pm EST. The news was confirmed by South African President Jacob Zuma. He was critically ill for the last six months. The anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician served President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, after spending 27 years in Robben Island prison. We’ve compiled a list of some of his inspiring quotes.

“Quitting is leading too.”

“As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.”

“There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.”

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

“A leader. . .is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.”

“There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.”

“Courageous people do not fear forgiving for the sake of peace.”

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

“In my country we go to prison first and then become President.” Read more.