Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela: Alive in our hearts!

TRIBUTE TO OUR FALLEN HERO:
NELSON ROLIHLAHLA MANDELA:
ALIVE IN OUR HEARTS!

It was a cold morning, here in the village of Mvezo, when we heard a child was born.  He was named Rolihlahla Mandela and his clan name was Madiba.  History had just been made, yet little did we know!

As you ran barefoot in the field, stick-fighting with your friends.  As you walked in the rain, careless of your muddied feet.  Did you ever think you would ever rise in stature?  Did you know many would speak your name for years to come?  Tata Mandela, we salute you!

An epitome of wisdom
Sower of hope
Valiant soldier
Ambassador of love and peace
Humble, yet so great, you live on in our hearts!

For our sake you gave up the warmth of family.  All those years spent in a small, cold cell, your only friend was the pen;  they say in difficult times the pen is the sword!  I can almost see you reading through your secret diary, then suddenly you would smile as you lay on that cold bed thinking, 'One day soon, and history will be made!'  Then in 1994 surely history was made!

You may be gone, yet you still live on. You are the rock of our nation, and children sing your praises.  Through your life we learnt the power of forgiveness.  Through your example we are stirred to love beyond race.  No more hatred;  forgiveness is strength.  We walk in your footsteps as we build a united democratic republic.  The seed has been planted and in a little while it will fully grow.  We will pass on all you taught to future generations.

We remember the radiant smile and the humble gait of a giant.  You sowed the seed and you ran your race well!  Your work here is done, and now it's time to rest.  Sleep in peace, Tata, until we meet again!

© Yvonne Maserumule, 2014
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