With our first child in the house 2023 has been a slow reading year. Great to finally get stuck into Nelson Mandela’s “A Long Walk to Freedom”. Shame on me for taking so long!
The autobiography is a profound testament to resilience and perseverance. It’s almost unimaginable that Madiba endured 27 years in prison, yet through his writing, we get a glimpse into the enormity of his experience. His detailed narration brings a sense of understanding to an otherwise incomprehensible part of history.
Learning about Mandela’s daily practice of restraint and forgiveness while on Robben Island was truly enlightening. His ability to not succumb to the provocations and racism of the guards, and instead, seek to understand the humanity in his oppressors, is remarkable. This constant vigil seems to have been crucial not only for his survival but also for the eventual democratization of South Africa.
There were instances when the secret police cunningly devised schemes to entice Mandela into attempting an escape. Such a ploy, under the guise of an opportunity for freedom, was in truth a sinister trap, intended to justify his elimination. Yet, Mandela, with remarkable discernment and self-control, resisted these temptations. Despite an overwhelming yearning for freedom from the confines of Robben Island, he remained steadfast, understanding the larger implications of his actions for his cause and his country.
These examples speak volumes about his astute self-awareness and dedication to the fight against injustice. Mandela’s unwavering fortitude in these moments is deeply impressive and inspiring to me. I attempt to practice these skills daily under far less trying circumstances but yet find it inordinately difficult. I hope this powerful story will add an extra 1% to my practice.
The emotional impact of Mandela’s prolonged imprisonment hits hard, especially when reflecting on his absence from his mother’s and son’s funerals and the poignant moment of reuniting with his daughter after decades. These personal sacrifices underscore the inhumanity of his situation.
A particular passage that resonates deeply describes Mandela’s early years of poverty in Johannesburg. It’s a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against poverty worldwide. His experiences serve as a humbling reflection on privilege and a call to action for greater compassion and support for those in need.
My baby son was enthralled with the picture of Madiba on the front cover, causing me to take extra notice. As I digested the message and deepened my knowledge of the man, I became enchanted with the picture myself. It made me think of a type of mediation where practitioners stare at a sage, leading to deepened spiritual connection. I have never attempted this type of practice as I am not interested in ‘hero-worship’ but I feel a little more open and understanding of the concept now. I see Mandela as a sage. I feel like I can see his magnificence in his pictures. He radiates joy, understanding, compassion, knowledge and a deep beauty. This doesn’t mean he’s perfect or requiring worship, but I certainly feel empowered by his example.
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