Favourite Quotes from Nelson Mandela

I have great admiration for those who conquer adversity and fight for what they believe in, no matter the cost. The following are my favourite quotes from one of the world's most inspirational people, Nelson Mandela.

By Michael Steer, Copyright 2012

“I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.” (Long Walk to Freedom)

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” (Autobiography)

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” (Autobiography)

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” (Autobiography)

“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.”

"There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires."

"We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right."

"Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for all. Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all. Let each know that for each the body, the mind and the soul have been freed to fulfill themselves." (Speech, May 10, 1994)

“A good head and good heart are always a formidable combination. But when you add to that a literate tongue or pen, then you have something very special."

Sunrise Over Pt. Noarlunga, by Peter Kemp, Copyright 2012

“I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended.”     

“Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.”  

"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.”   

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”