A TRIBUTE TO ONE OF THE WORLD'S MOST RESPECTABLE FREEDOM FIGHTER

Today we lost a fighter - a South-African fighter for freedom and a fighter who fought against racism.

Mr. Nelson Mandela. I am sure all of you have heard of his name. He is a hero who fought against apartheid and tackled issues of racism, inequality and poverty. I love movies and books that discuss racism and inequality and I am always very inspired by real life people who are fighting for the caused.

The truth really is I hate racism and in my country, it is not as bad but there are still people who judged others because of race. We always typecast certain race with a certain characteristic. For example Indians love to drink and Malays are lazy while the Chinese are calculative. It is sad. But on the bright side, I am very happy that urban Malaysians are very united and we love each other to bits and sometimes, we really forget the colours of our skin!

And even though I know my mum would object me dating a guy from another race, I really won't care if I really fall for someone who is not Chinese.

This post, I'd like to dedicate to this renowned activist, for I admire him for doing things that I am not doing. Here are a few Nelson Mandela quotes that I love:

“A leader. . .is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.”

“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”

I love to work for leaders not bosses. 

And Mandela's words clearly prove that he is a real leader. I have my own definition of leaders, and yes, I believe that people who lead from the back and step up to protect their followers are leaders that deserve my respect. I have lost respect to many who has chickened out during times of trouble; worst is when they try to place blames on others.

It always seems impossible until it is done. I shall forever remember this when I want to give up! 

My favourite story about Nelson Mandela. 

"Mandela had been imprisoned and maltreated for 27 years. Later at inauguration of President, he invited three guards who had abused him to attend. When he stood up and greeted them with respect, everyone at present and even the whole world became silent. He said, "As I walked out the door towards the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'll still be in prison."

For this story reminds me to learn to forgive and forget - to move on to happier and better things in life.