“After spending 27 years in prison …” began the article on Nelson Mandela’s death. And I couldn’t get past that point.
Twenty-seven years in prison.
Twenty-seven years of being sidelined.
Twenty-seven years to pass from young man to old man.
Twenty-seven years to watch others lead.
Twenty-seven years to see your world revolve from bad to worse.
What kept him from giving up? How could he hold onto hope for 27 years?
Somehow Mandela did. And he was able to accomplish great and beautiful things.
Even from the depths of his prison he inspired others.
What hope are you holding on to?
What hope for yourself and your life?
What hope for the betterment of mankind?
And who are you inspiring as you wait?