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Time-Warner Audiobooks presents "Long Walk to Freedom"
written by Nelson Mandela and read by Danny Glover
with the special introduction by Cofey Allen.
People often ask me what difference one person can make
in the face of injustice - conflict - poverty and disease.
I answer by citing the courage and
tenacity, dignity and magnanimity
of Nelson Mandela.
I cite his lifelong struggle against apartheid
and his steadfast refusal to compromise his beliefs
during long years of incarceration.
I cite his inspired leadership
upon his release in the peaceful transition
to a genuine multi-racial multi-party
Democracy - Firmly founded
on the Constitution - Protection of Fundamental Human Rights.
I cite his efforts as President of the Republic of South Africa
to create the political, economic, and social conditions
needed to bring Africa the peace and prosperity it needs and deserves.
Above all, I cite his ready willingness to embrace and reconcile
with those who persecuted him the most:
and the grace with which he stuck to his promise
to serve only one presidential term of office
His contribution did not end there.
To this day Madiba remains probably
the single most admired, most respected
international figure in the entire world.
He continues to inspire millions of people
and several generations throughout the globe
by continuing to fight for Reconciliation before Recrimination
Healing before Bitterness
Peace before Conflict. By fighting for health
For education and for the right of every child
to have a better start in life by spelling out
the rights and duties of not only South Africa
but of all Africa to take charge of it's own future and fate.
As he said in one of his
many eloquent speeches and I quote:
"Africa has long traversed a
mindset which seeks to keep
all blame on the past and on others."
End of Quote. The only adequate way
in which we can truly express our gratitude
for Madiba's contribution is for everyone of us
to work every day to follow his example.
If just one small part of what he has sought to achieve
by his fellow human beings is translated into reality...
if we live up to just one fraction..
Of the standards which he has set for himself:
Then Africa and the world
will be a far better place.