We owe our children – the most vulnerable citizens in any society – a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
Our daily deeds as ordinary South Africans must produce an actual South African reality that will reinforce humanity's belief in justice, strengthen its confidence in the nobility of the human soul, and sustain all our hopes for a glorious life for all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our actions should contribute to a just and hopeful society, reflecting the goodness within humanity.
This quote by Nelson Mandela emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to engage in daily actions that not only create a better reality for South Africa but also enhance the global belief in justice and the innate nobility of the human spirit. Mandela calls for a collective effort to build a hopeful future for all, suggesting that ordinary deeds can have profound implications for society.
Themes
JusticeHumanityHopeNobilityAction
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech addressing community service, I might include this quote to inspire people to take action.
More from Nelson Mandela
All quotes →What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
Nelson MandelaRead
The past is a rich resource on which we can draw in order to make decisions for the future, but it does not dictate our choices. We should look back at the past and select what is good, and leave behind what is bad.
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We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.
Nelson MandelaRead
After one has been in prison, it is the small things that one appreciates: being able to take a walk whenever one wants, going into a shop and buying a newspaper, speaking or choosing to remain silent. The simple act of being able to control one's person.
Nelson MandelaRead
I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
Nelson MandelaRead
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