Celebrating Nelson Mandela Poem by John Leroy Maxwell

President Nelson Mandela's death leaves human rights
advocates across the world, with an undeniable
sense of loss.. But amid the sorrow, we can take solace
from the former South African's president's legacy..
Mandela's courage during his 27 years of imprisonment
will forever inspire people, to stand up to oppression
and injustice.. And the more we can learn from his life,
the more we can amplify the drumbeat for Human Rights..
As we honor Mr. Mandela, we must remember that the
transformation is not complete, and we must recognize
our future is a shared one when we are united..
So as we praise Nelson Mandela, he also has some words
he would like to share with you.. 'I have walked the long
road to freedom, but I have discovered that after climbing
a great hill, there are many more hills to climb..
As I look back on the distance I have come, I rest for
only a moment, for with freedom comes responsibilities,
and I dare not linger, my long walk has not ended..'
'So as together we talk, we ask for peace, and in this way
shall bring release.. Too many delve in hate, and shake
their fist.. This is the way we can't exist.. There is
no boundary in this life, so why the hate, the fear,
the strife.. Please reach out so all of us cease the
malice and the pain, and maybe someday soon we'll hear
sweet music in the rain.. And as you walk around this
world, with Peace and Tolerance on your mind.. I'll be
walking in your footsteps, only half a step behind..'