The Legend and The Legacy

Posted on December 13, 2013

The world was heartbroken this week from the loss of the ever respected and honored legend, ‘Tata” Nelson Mandela. The odes and dedications paid to this great man through both traditional and new-age media have been awe-inspiring and deserving. 

While I watched and read all the footage on his exemplary life, what caught my attention was that ‘Tata’ and ‘Nelson’ are not his only names! I even heard his South African fellowman refer to him as ‘Madiba’. I couldn’t help but remember what my Mom had said when we were brainstorming with names for my first born, “Pick thoughtfully for our names hold the virtues of our lives.”

Yes, Nelson Mandela’s many names sure held the virtues of his life:

Rolihlahla— The name given to him by his father at birth. It literally means “pulling the branch of a tree”and figuratively means “troublemaker”! Clearly, he was a “troublemaker” to the British, for opposing the pro-apartheid government, which is why he spent 27 years in prison!

Nelson— The name given to him by his teacher in primary school. It was quite common then to give simple English names to children to make it easier for the British Colonist to pronounce. ‘Nelson’ means ‘Son of the Champion”. And truly, he was the biggest advocate of the championed cause of freedom for his fellow countrymen of South Africa!

Madiba– A term of ‘endearment and respect’ glorifying the Thembu tribe that he originated from. And surely he was both endeared and respected, not just by his countrymen, but also by the entire world.

Tata– The South African (Xhosa) word for ‘father’. Like Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela was most defintely the ‘Father of His Nation’.

Albert Pike once said, “What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” The loving names that the world has given this legend are the living and lasting testimonials of Nelson Mandela’s legacy and immortality.

Inspire your children towards greatness by sharing his story. I personally love how his legend is told through BBC’s version. Better yet, let your children learn through the voices of other children, as each describe this legend in one word in this touching piece— ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE NELSON MANDELA.

Tools of Growth honors your legacy, Madiba. Rest in Peace.