I haven’t blogged for a while, because real life. I’m sorry for leaving you all in the lurch with nothing to read but BadTennis (www.badtennis.co.za)
Let’s get to the point. Tata Nelson Mandela is in the process of shuffling off the mortal coil. We, as a nation, are going to lose our father.
I haven’t had this piece planned for months, unlike the rest of the world’s media. An ex of mine met esteemed photographer Alf Khumalo about three years ago and he told her that “The Madiba File” had been print-ready for 5 years already at that stage, and just got updated every year.
He also told her that Miriam Makeba (Mama Africa) declined Nelson’s proposal- citing the fact that she wanted some aspects of privacy in her life. Imagine that – the father of our nation and Mama Africa. Rad.
I read a book called “When Mandela Goes” a number of years ago, which outlined the worst possible scenario if and when Madeebs kicks the bucket. I don’t think the author could have imagined the Zuma administration, which is pretty similar to his prophecy, only looks more like a ninja turtle.
I think it would be stating the obvious going into how Rolihlahla and his legacy have helped to shape our nation and quite possibly each of our identities as South Africans. The man is a legend. One whose values and commitment to the country I hope we can continue to emulate without him.
In closing, I don’t want us to remember Madiba how he is now, an old man- but rather as the Black Pimpernel, the fiery young lawyer and the kickass boxer. 702 this morning asked WWMD – What would Madiba do?
My answer – kick your ass. For the country.
Revolutionary Throwback 