I, like so many people around the world, was saddened to learn about Nelson Mandela’s passing last week.
Over a year ago while I was in South Africa, I visited Robben Island and the cell where he was held for 27 years. I also had the privilege to stand on the road where he walked to freedom. It was moving to imagine his life in this place.
And so, I have been watching a lot of the television commentary by people who knew and admired him.
He was an extraordinary leader. What made him so?
He was courageous and committed to his values. He had dignity. He was an influencer who was able to change world perspectives on apartheid. He was a reconciler who worked with others to heal and bring a nation together. He focused on the big vision and put aside his own feelings and resentments to achieve it.
These are characteristics of a leader. In Nelson Mandela, we saw a man who inspired millions because he lived these qualities. He had the conviction of his words.