The Nassak Post: Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela!

“Take Action; Inspire Change; Make Every Day a Mandela Day"

Today is Nelson Mandela International Day or in South Africa, simply--"Mandela Day". It is on this day the world's most influential and beloved man celebrates his birthday and this year he turns 94 years old. The world, hailing the man who fought against the apartheid regime, his imprisonment and subsequent rise to power as South Africa’s first democratically elected president .

Mandela Day is an outreach event which hopes to encourage South Africans to spend 67 minutes making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate than themselves and it has been a global event as of late.

Exactly why 67 minutes? Mandela spent 67 years of his life making South Africa a better place. Officially declared by the United Nation back in 2009, Mandela Day is not a public holiday in South Africa, but a day to honor a man, through volunteering and community service. It is a day to think of others, to find that part of you that is self less and giving, and that is what truly epitomizes Nelson Mandela. Although it is mainly celebrated in South Africa, it is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact.

Nelson Mandela not only inspires, but gives hope to a generation, that it is in each of us a change for a betterment is not far way, if we believe and work towards it. The stories of those who are in presence are all the same—his aurora, words, looks, smiles; it all gives a feeling of inspiration, not only to be a better person, but to want for humanity, what we want for ourselves.

Mandela's message, throughout this life has been to help others, to put someone less fortunate ahead of yourself, and that characteristic is very rare in humans, but he was blessed with that. He used both his political and personal life as a platform and after 67 years all he is asking is for, is 67 minutes--something I think we can all do.

The Mandela Day campaign message is:

"Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We’re asking you to start with 67 minutes."We would be honoured if such a day can serve to bring together people around the world to fight poverty and promote peace and reconciliation."

Madiba Birthday Song