Nelson Mandela passed away on 5 December. It's hard for me to put into words how that makes me feel. In many ways I felt a sense of relief for the passing of for this great man. He has packed a few lifetimes full of living into his 95 years. Right up until the end he was still involved in philanthropic endeavors. He deserves to rest. He is one of the greatest things to come from our country. I hope his legacy looms gigantic in judgement over the pitiful excuse for government that we are saddled with. I am sure this wonderful man turned in his grave as the secrecy bill was signed in the same week as his memorial. I mourn the passing of such a symbol of humanity and goodness. This article interested me and broke my heart. I particularly resonated with one individuals response "We did not expect another Nelson Mandela but we deserve more than this" I am abandoning political ennui. I loathe politics and struggle to accept anyone but myself having power over my future. Sticking my head in the sand is irresponsible, bordering on ethically criminal. Enough. I am reminded of my responsibility by the collective mourning and poverty of my nation and by reflecting on just a fraction of what has been overcome and achieved by one man. The only fathomable reason people like Jacob Zuma and Angie Motshekga are in power is the collective ignorance of my nation, complacency and fear of change. The events that occurred during Zuma's Speech at Mandela's memorial service is illustrative that people are finally reaching a point. The tide, I hope, is turning on those who inexcusably abuse their power. The common man must never forget that we are the ones that hand politicians their power. Singularly we cannot remove it but collectively we can. Nelson Mandela and the apartheid struggle is proof of that. The sickening sense of entitlement that afflicts South Africans must end. Freedom was hard earned and must continuously be fought for. We must be spurred into action. Let his death be the catalyst for positive change not some kind of terrible omen. The fight against inequality and socioeconomic class disparity must prevail. If only through the choice not to be politically ambivalent.
