Inspirational Quotes by Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela Day

Today is Nelson Mandela Day so I have decided to share a few of my favourite inspirational quotes by this great man as well as a little more information about Mandela Day.

But, before you get to reading some wise words from an even wiser man, here’s the official Madiba Birthday Song music video for you to listen to while reading through the rest of this post after the jump.

Madiba Birthdy Song:

Nelson Mandela Quotes:

on Education

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

on Freedom

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.

on Leadership

It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.

on Courage

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.

on Life

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.

… I was only going to be including my 5 favourite inspirational Nelson Mandela quotes, but this next one kind of reminds me of how one feels when travelling and returning home after a long absence. Returning home after a long time away things somehow feel different and it’s because the place stays the same, but the people change, and you’ve changed.

on Travel

There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.

….and lastly – the man had a seriously hard life to put it mildly, but still manages to retain his love for humanity, and most of all, his sense of humour.

on Becoming President

In my country we go to prison first and then become President.

Nelson Mandela Day Photos

What Can We Do?

From the official website:

The overarching objective of Mandela Day is to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better, and in doing so build a global movement for good. Ultimately it seeks to empower communities everywhere. "Take Action; Inspire Change; Make Every Day a Mandela Day."

Individuals and organisations are free to participate in Mandela Day as they wish. We do however urge everyone to adhere to the ethical framework of "service to one’s fellow human".

For more information about Nelson Mandela Day and find out how you can contribute by starting something check out the official Mandela Day website or visit the United Nations Mandela Day Page on the UN’s website for more key statements and speeches by Nelson Mandela, 1961 – 2008.

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