“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.” Nelson Mandela
By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2020
First published in the Spring 2020 Edition of the Pennsylvania Literary Journal,
Transformative figure,
Elder statesman of his nation,
Anti-apartheid warrior,
Leading South Africa to liberation;
Lifelong leader of the ANC,
He transcended party to become “Mandiba” – Father of the Nation,
Salving searing wounds of racism and oppression,
With forgiveness, respect and reconciliation;
From espousing sabotage and Marxist ideology,
He eschewed violence and retaliation,
Presiding over a government of national unity,
Representing everyone in his “Rainbow Nation”;
After cheering the country’s rugby team to victory,
He handed the Afrikaner captain the World Cup trophy,
Symbolizing that the bonds of its people,
Ran deeper than hate and ignominy;
Committed to uplifting those in need,
He donated one-third of his salary to orphaned youth,
Establishing a foundation to combat poverty and AIDS,
And a commission to search for truth;
The recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize,
He stands among the greatest crusaders of the 20th century,
Fighting against systemic injustice and rampant oppression,
Alongside Reverend Doctor King and Mahatma Gandhi.