Our community needs for us to search for our own words, and choose our own actions, here and now … and not merely apply historical prose, like balm, to a current wound.
Many of us find his adventurous spirit in the young students who begin their life journeys here, at the University.
Some might demand that students stay in their rooms at night; that they refrain from substances; that they wear more “appropriate” attire; that they keep to their circle of friends; that their skirts are longer or their heels are shorter; etc.
Mandela was not who we thought he was; he wasn’t that violent figure that we’d seen in the papers. Nor was he the violent firebrand that some in the ANC wanted him to be. Nelson Mandela was a thoughtful, dignified man who spoke eloquently about reconciliation, peace and a better future … for everyone.
The college students of today face a number of concerns: How will I pay for my education? Will I be accepted to graduate school or a professional program?
