Larger Than Life

Larger Than Life

December 6, 2013 Uncategorized 0

The death of Nelson Mandela yesterday–95 years old, but really, given the state of our planet and our need for inspiring figures, gone far too soon–reminded me of being a teenager in NYC in 1990 when Mandela came to Harlem, following his release from prison. I remember watching his visit live on TV, with my then-boyfriend, and even then, two snotty NYC teenagers, we both recognized Mandela’s innate stature. We were stunned. We kept turning to each other, unable to believe that after decades lost in prison, this manwas actually walking the streets of Harlem. Respect: any man who can make obnoxious teenagers awed, truly has something crucially important to share with the world.

“There is no passion to be found playing small-in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” -Mandela

The world is mourning a hero, clearly because humanity has a deep, visceral, almost genetic, need for the people who make us feel alive, who inspire us and remind us of how much we can and should achieve. Mandela made us feel the impossible was very possible.  The man is gone but his message of strength and courage and humanity remain for the ages. How lucky are we all to have been the recipients of Mandela’s brave heart!

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