The man who spent 27 years in prison in his relentless effort to free South Africa from Apartheid has passed at 94.
He sought peace, understanding and tolerance in his efforts to reconcile the nation and the peoples of South Africa. He learned the Africaaners language his captors spoke to be able to communicate and share his ideas for a better future.
When Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher wanted him to remain in prison Mandela forgave them. When Yasser Arafat wanted violence as a means to his goals Mandela spoke of peace and reconciliation.
Mandela lost his health in the prison of Robben Island where he contacted TB and damaged his eyesight breaking rocks in the sun for 18 years.
Where are the Peace Makers today, who will be the new Mandela.
RIP