It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of our beloved Madiba, President Nelson Mandela. Nelson Mandela is one of the great heroes in my life and I believe did more for our country than any other person in our history. As a proud South African, I am certain Mandela’s legacy will endure in our nation and across the world as a figure of courage, value, spirit, and above all else, love.

Madiba’s long life inspired great change in our nation, but not without adversity. I commend him for all that he did over his 95 years. He was a courageous leader who fought for all that is right, and he possessed an aura that inspired people, and our nation, to change for the better.

When I was a young man, I stated that Madiba should be released from prison, where he spent twenty-seven years. I was labeled a traitor, yet paid no mind. Time would prove that decision right. Moreover, time would prove how truly special he was after emerging from prison with no hatred or revenge. He was never broken, just empowered.

Our nation enters into a time of mourning, but also a celebration of his great life and the spirit he instilled in our nation. May we all lovingly remember our truly remarkable former President and the father of our nation. Thank you, Madiba.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Mandela family.