I recently read, The Long Road to Freedom, Nelson Mandela's account of his struggle as a freedom fighter in South Africa. I was surprised to learn that the African National Congress, which the South African Government always referred to as a terrorist organization, was actually started years before apartheid ever came into power. It originated as a peaceful means to bring peace and equality to all the different races in South Africa, wherein they would live together in peace, with democracy and justice for all. This was the essence of Mandela's lifelong struggle.
I again cannot help but to marvel at the character of this man who devoted his whole life to bring peace and equality to all in South Africa. His biggest regret is that he had to sacrifice his family for this cause, and this has caused him great grief.
But because of his strength of character, he was able to abstain from vindictiveness during all those years of imprisonment and to display kindness and humility to his oppressors. And after twenty-seven years of prison, he emerged advocating forgiveness as a means of freeing one's self and moving on.
As as result of this attitude of forgiveness, he has been able to do great things for the country.
I have lived in South Africa and was very familiar with apartheid. I left in l978. Five years ago I returned and was amazed at the difference in the country, especially in the Cape.
In Gatung (formerly the Transvaal) it seemed much the same -- only security was much more of an issue. To get in and out of one's house there can be a real challenge. Most houses are equipped with electric fences and locked gates because of all the car jackings and break-ins.
But then I went to the Cape. From the moment we boarded the South African plane, Kahlulah, at Jan Smuts in Johannesburg, we saw the difference. Primarily, everyone on the plane was speaking English and we saw numerous nationalities: Black, Coloured, Oriental and White -- all interacting positively with one another. What a contrast! The entire time spent in the Cape was one of ease and enjoyment, free of any overt racial tension.
I know South Africa continues to have problems, but I admire the man who was instrumental in giving all the people of South Africa the chance to experience freedom and hope.
