Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela.

How can we ensure that in the pursuit of freedom, we do not become the very oppressors we seek to overcome?

Freedom!!!

Happy Sunday Readers!

Reading will humble you! This is a statement that holds true for anyone who has had the chance to delve into the pages of a truly remarkable book. I thought I knew Nelson Mandela, his story, and the struggle for Black liberation in South Africa until I read his autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom." In today's journal, I will share my experience of reading "Long Walk to Freedom," and timeless lessons from the book.

Long Walk to Freedom is a book that tells the powerful story of one of the greatest leaders ever known, Nelson Mandela, and his struggle against apartheid in South Africa. The book is a detailed account of Mandela's life, from his childhood in the countryside to his election as the first black President of South Africa in 1994. The book is not just a personal memoir, but also a historical account of South Africa's political and social landscape during apartheid.

The first part of the book covers Mandela's childhood, education, and early political activism, while the later part details his more prominent role in the struggle against apartheid and his eventual incarceration and release. The book is written in a very personal and engaging style, and Mandela's humanity and personal struggles are apparent throughout the book.

The book presents the theme of apartheid in a stark and heart-breaking manner, highlighting the brutal and inhumane treatment that black people in South Africa were subjected to under the white minority government. The book is a testament to the resilience and courage of the black South Africans who fought tirelessly against the oppression, and the bravery of the leaders who spearheaded the movement, including Mandela himself. The racial division between the Afrikaans (White People), Indians, Coloureds, and Black people of South Africa is laid bare, with Mandela painting a clear picture of the racial inequality and injustice that was rampant in South Africa.

Lessons From The Book.

• Purpose.

  Throughout the book, Mandela describes his journey towards discovering his purpose in the liberation struggle. He initially became involved in politics as a young lawyer in Johannesburg, but it wasn't until he joined the African National Congress (ANC) that he truly found his calling. Mandela writes about how he gradually became more committed to the struggle against apartheid, and how he found a sense of purpose and meaning in fighting for justice and equality. From his writing, I believe purpose gave him strength and determination during his 27 years in prison. The theme of purpose resonates with you and me (Fellow Reader), we seek meaning to life one way or another.

• Forgiveness.

  Mandela emphasizes the importance of forgiveness throughout the book, even in the face of great personal pain and hardship. He believed that the only way South Africa can move forward was to let go of the past and work towards reconciliation and unity.

• Leadership.

  I admire Mandela's leadership during the struggle against apartheid. The book provides many insights into his leadership style, including his commitment to negotiating with the White government, his ability to inspire others, and his willingness to take risks. The book is a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership in creating positive social change, and of the many qualities that make a great leader.

• Black against Black.

  Despite the shared experience of oppression under apartheid, many Black South Africans were divided based on tribal lines, ideologies and self-interest. This division was exploited by the white minority government, which used divide and rule tactics to consolidate white supremacy.

• Perseverance.

  Mandela's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of great hardship. He spent 27 years in prison for his political beliefs, and yet never lost his commitment to the cause of freedom and equality. The book is a powerful reminder that change is never easy, and that it often requires great personal sacrifice and determination. A part of the book that moved me was where he shared how the liberation struggle lead to the disintegration of his family.

Mandela was seen as the Father of the Nation, the Leader of the liberation struggle. But, he felt he failed those who needed him the most - His Wife (Winnie), his Mother, his Children, close friends and loved ones.

• Political Thought - Freedom.

  Mandela's political thought is centered around the idea of freedom, not only for the oppressed but also for the oppressor. Mandela believed that true freedom could not be achieved if it was only for one group of people, but rather that freedom must be extended to all, regardless of their past actions or beliefs.

  This idea of extending freedom to both the oppressor and oppressed is reflected in a passage from the book that reads: "I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else’s freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity."

  Mandela recognized that the struggle for liberation was not only about ending apartheid and achieving political freedom for Black South Africans, but also about creating a new social order based on justice and equality for all. He believed that true freedom meant respecting the dignity and humanity of all people, regardless of their background or beliefs - I agree with this.

Tag along Dear Reader!

• Have you read this book?

• What are your thoughts about it?

• What does Freedom mean to you?