I have been blessed in my life so far to witness two great leaders step forward when they were needed most. Leaders who came to power despite all odds, at a time when their country was in turmoil. One leader who has forever changed the face of the world, and another who is about to.
I was old enough to remember it, yet too young to appreciate how momentous an occasion it was when Nelson Mandela became the first black president of South Africa. Looking back, I am both grateful and amazed that he was able to take a country torn by racial divide, on the brink of civil war and knit it together. Nelson Mandela’s message and example of peace, tolerance and unity has few equals. In the face of past mistreatment, injustice and indignity he rose above to call out to the higher ideals that reside within our human spirit.
Nelson Mandela: A journey to freedom
And just a few days ago the improbable happened. A man preaching unity, understanding and tolerance became the first black president of the United States of America. Barack Obama inspired millions to cast aside fear and embrace hope. To spurn hatred and seek out that most beautiful part of our nature. For a country on the knife edge of financial collapse, fighting one unjust war and another unsuccessful one we find ourselves in a fortunate situation.
There are few times I have been as proud of the country I now call home, and I am honored to have played my own small part in history. It seems that trying times in our civilization have created men who are equal to the task. I look forward to the future with hope. Yes We Can!
Tags: Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela
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