Category: Poet for Black History Month

Yesterday the world momentarily paused and individual heartbeats stopped, as we learned of the sad passing of arguably one of the most inspirational and powerful men of the last one hundred years – Rolihlahla Dalibhunga Mandela. Also known as Madiba. Commonly known as Nelson Mandela.

He has left a legacy that in my eyes will never, ever be matched and taught so many about perseverance while living under scrutiny, standing firm against injustice, as well as the power and healing in forgiveness.

To many, in particular the young, he was an incredible source of guidance and a visible presence they could link to for motivation.

He advocated the importance of education and the impact and difference it can make on a personal and global level:

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ~ Nelson Mandela

He always provided inspiration and encouragement, showing how young people can utilise their own gifts to be successful:

“Does anybody really think that they didn’t get what they had because they didn’t have the talent or the strength or the endurance or the commitment?” ~ Nelson Mandela

During his challenges, struggles, battles against injustice and the Apartheid regime, personal grief and his twenty-seven years of imprisonment, Madiba learned tools and gained the strength to overcome fear:

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” ~ Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela epitomised the essence of love, peace and forgiveness. Humble and gently powerful, with the ability to let go so gracefully! R.I.P.

© Patricia Foster

Patricia Foster is an Internationally Published Poet, Performer, Visual and Multimedia Artist (BA Hons), Broadcaster, Certified Tutor/Trainer & Facilitator, Dynamic Educator and Creative Consultant. She is also a Life Coach, Certified Reiki Practitioner, Wellbeing Advisor, Vegan and lover of Raw Food. As a writer, she has toured the UK, Europe and the USA and has worked for the BBC as a workshop facilitator.