Nelson Mandela Quotes
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We dedicate this day to all the heroes and heroines in this country and the rest of the world who sacrificed in many ways and surrendered their lives so that we could be free. Their dreams have become reality. Freedom is their reward.
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You know, you can only lead them from behind.
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For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.
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I have been influenced in my thinking by both west and east.
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The victory of democracy in South Africa is the common achievement of all humanity.
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I came across few whites as a boy at Qunu. The local magistrate, of course, was white, as was the nearest shopkeeper. Occasionally, white travelers or policemen passed through our area. These whites appeared as grand as gods to me, and I was aware that they were to be treated with a mixture of fear and respect.
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The names of Dingane and Bambata, Hintsa and Makana, Squngthi and Dalasile, Moshoeshoe and Sekhukhuni, were praised as the glory of the entire African nation. I hoped then that life might offer me the opportunity to serve my people and make my own humble contribution to their freedom struggle.
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It always seems impossible until it's done.
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There are times when a leader must move out ahead of the flock, go off in a new direction, confident that he is leading his people the right way.
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Communists have always played an active role in the fight by colonial countries for their freedom, because the short-term objects of Communism would always correspond with the long-term objects of freedom movements.
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Africans require, want, the franchise on the basis of one man one vote. They want political independence.
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What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.
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Money won't create success, the freedom to make it will.
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In the 1940s, traveling for an African was a complicated process. All Africans over the age of sixteen were compelled to carry 'Native passes' issued by the Native Affairs Department and were required to show that pass to any white policeman, civil servant, or employer. Failure to do so could mean arrest, trial, a jail sentence or fine.
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Prison itself is a tremendous education in the need for patience and perseverance. It is above all a test of one's commitment.
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Even if you have a terminal disease, you don't have to sit down and mope. Enjoy life and challenge the illness that you have.
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It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.
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When I came to Johannesburg from the countryside, I knew nobody, but many strangers were very kind to me. I then was dragged into politics, and then, subsequently, I became a lawyer.
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Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.
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Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
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Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all.
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Give a child love, laughter and peace, not AIDS.
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I stand here before you not as a prophet, but as a humble servant of you, the people.
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There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.