The world has been mesmerized by the impactful life of Nelson Mandela and is filled with grief as the revolutionary leader has passed away. While reflecting on his legacy, the most apt way to remember him today is to internalize and emulate his timeless wisdom – meant to inspire, uplift and raise the bar for humanity.
Nelson Mandela was a visionary leader and pacifist who forever altered the political and social prospects for South Africa and its people. Human rights and democracy have always been at the forefront of his life, and his dream for global justice ultimately served as a source of inspiration to millions of people around the world.
There is never a better time to learn from his teachings and soak in the priceless values and ideals that shaped his life and the lives of many others. Here are 10 inspiring Nelson Mandela quotes to live by:
Quote #1
“It always seems impossible until it is done.”
Nelson Mandela was no stranger to adversity and knew that daunting circumstances were often the first step in achieving success. Every great feat or accomplishment requires not just hard work, but strength of heart to push the boundaries of uncertainty and to view the “not yet” as a challenge to be overcome.
Quote #2
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Nelson Mandela was a firm believer that access to education is a fundamental right for every single person. Such an opportunity gives people an alternate perspective of the world and its possibilities as learning expands conscience and breaks boundaries.
Instead of focusing on his enemies, Nelson Mandela chose to invest time and resources into the development of the less privileged, of which education is the key component. This quote serves as an encouragement for those who struggle to receive quality education.
Quote #3
“If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.”
This quote encapsulates the very essence of Mandela’s hunger for peace. He didn’t believe in revenge, or a vengeful attitude, and strived to take the moral high ground no matter how much he disagreed with the opposing party.
This also speaks to the wise practices of debating in a peaceful manner, rather than fight to win. Debate is essential, differences can be hashed out and solutions can be reached.
Quote #4
“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
Nelson Mandela always looked beyond his circumstances, rather than be consumed by them. He never let difficult life experiences become an excuse.
This quote is a stark reminder that failure is only a step towards success, courage is found not in the absence of fear but in the refusal to give it a stronghold and that passion is the only thing that can push people through tough times.
Quote #5
“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.”
The freedom that Mandela had been dreaming of was much more than just political emancipation – it was the freedom to coexist in harmony and respect. He was convinced that without mutual respect, even the greatest of democracies are mere dross.
This quote helps us realize that respect for others is not something to be extracted from them, but something to be offered with open arms.
Quote #6
“That which does not kill us makes us stronger.”
Nelson Mandela was nothing if not resilient. Despite the hardships he faced, he always managed to rise above them with renewed energy and passion.
This quote serves as a reminder that even in our darkest hours, we have the ability to move beyond them and use them as stepping stones to become stronger.
Quote #7
“A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”
This quote encapsulates the sheer determination that Nelson Mandela had. Even when the goal was too far out of reach, he would work tirelessly to bridge the gap between where he was and where he wanted to be.
This quote also speaks of never giving up or settling for mediocrity, and serves as a beacon of hope to keep striving in the right direction.
Quote #8
“It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.”
No one knew more about the power of resourcefulness than Nelson Mandela. He was a firm believer that it was man’s ingenuity and creativity that elevated him to the top.
This quote emboldens us to look at the obstacles in our lives not as stumbling blocks, but as opportunities to create something better and more meaningful.
Quote #9
“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.”
Nelson Mandela was a firm believer in dreaming big and having the courage to make those dreams a reality. He believed that any challenge could be overcome if people were passionate and persistent enough.
This quote serves as a reminder to not get complacent, but to go after our goals with unwavering conviction and faith.
Quote #10
“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.”
Nelson Mandela’s favorite quote always seems to have been this one. For him, freedom was much more than just achieving independence from the oppressive hands of Apartheid. His freedom meant freedom for everyone, regardless of class and race.
This quote invokes in us a sense of responsibility to not only be free, but to make sure that everyone is free as well.
Nelson Mandela was a revolutionary leader of humane values, and his teachings remain invaluable reminders of kindness and leadership. His words serve as an inspiration to all of us to not only live with justice and respect, but also to provide a positive impact in our own way and strive to achieve a better world.
