Seek patience
by Maya AngelouOriginal Language English
Seek patience
and passion
in equal amounts.
Patience alone
will not build the temple.
Passion alone
will destroy its walls.
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The passing of Nelson Mandela is a huge event in the world. For me, as with so many of you, he was an important icon, a great soul who inspired me to be more in myself and strive for more in society.
The world was certainly blessed by the life of Nelson Mandela, a man of courage, brilliance, and dignity, who opened a pathway of healing, not only for the people of South Africa, but for all of us around the world. He gave us a vision of hope for the future.
With Madiba's passing, we have received an invitation and a challenge: Can we, individually and collectively, step up and step through into a better, more just, more inclusive world? Will we strive against the forces of inertia and fear, meeting them with strength, tenacity, and heart? And can we yet do so with joy and a wide-open heart? Mandela's life says to us, it can be done.
...One further thought: Every image of Mandela you are likely to see in the next few weeks is of the thin, gentle, aging sage, with his sparkle eyed smile. The image I've included is a variation of that same wise face. But do yourself a favor and search the Internet for photos of Mandela as a bearded young man. You can see a surprising strength of body supporting his strength of character. But you still might catch that sparkle in his eye too.
Recommended Books: Maya Angelou
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| The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou | Phenomenal Woman: Four Poems Celebrating Women | And Still I Rise | A Brave and Startling Truth | The Collected Autobiographies of Maya Angelou |
| More Books >> | ||||
