Nelson Mandela Turns 93!!

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

It is known to the worlds as "Nelson Mandela International Day", or in South Africa, simply--"Mandela Day".  It is on this day the world's most influential, beloved man celebrates his birthday and this year he turned 93 years old. The world, hailing the man whose fight against the apartheid regime, his imprisonment and subsequent rise to power as South Africa’s first democratically elected president captivated hearts and minds around the globe. 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.

Most of you are wondering, 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, the ability to make an impact.

Nelson Mandela is on of those individuals who inspires you to want to be a better citizen of the world. I have heard many stories of folks who had the opportunity to be in his presence and they all share the same sentiments. His aurora, his words, the way he speaks with you, the way he looks at you and smiles with you and they way he  shakes your hand, all of that makes you, in simple words--want to be a better person, want to make a difference in the world. Mandela's message, through out 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 to inspire that characteristic in others, 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."

In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly formally declared 18 July to be "Nelson Mandela International Day."

Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela

(you inspire me everyday to be a better human being,

thank you!!)