In Memory of Nelson Mandela

 Forgiveness, Reconciliation, and the Legacy 

 This piece was originally written shortly after the passing of one of the world’s most iconic and revered leaders—Nelson Mandela. Like many around the globe who paid tribute to this remarkable figure, mine was a modest gesture of admiration for a man whose legacy continues to shape the meaning of true leadership.

Yet as time passes, the lesson Mandela left us remains not only timeless, but strikingly timely—especially in light of Ethiopia’s current political landscape.

Nelson Mandela showed us, with grace and conviction, that forgiveness and reconciliation are not signs of weakness but marks of extraordinary strength. He was a man who endured decades of persecution, wrongful imprisonment, and personal suffering. Still, upon gaining power, he chose not revenge, but reconciliation. He reached out to his former oppressors, building bridges instead of walls.

 Let’s pause here: how many of us, as everyday professionals and citizens—who have endured far less than he—can truly say we practice forgiveness when wronged? Even though many of our cultures and religions, especially Christianity, uphold forgiveness as a core value, in practice we often fall far short. We grow up hearing about it, preaching it even—but when it comes time to embody it, we struggle. Why?

Because forgiveness and reconciliation are not as simple as they sound. They demand strength, emotional maturity, and a deep clarity of purpose. Our instinctive reaction when hurt—whether by an individual, a group, or an institution—is often retribution, especially when we hold the upper hand. And those in positions of power, particularly political leaders, may feel even more justified in exercising authority over those perceived as adversaries.

 But leadership excellence is precisely defined by choosing a higher path. It means learning to respond to deep harm—not with retaliation, but with restraint, wisdom, and a long view of what truly heals and unites.

I call this higher path the golden nuggets of leadership—forgiveness and reconciliation. These are not theoretical virtues or abstract ideals. They are lived practices, and they require nothing short of daily self-sacrifice. The true height of leadership is the ability to maintain a winning spirit even in the face of profound personal and collective anguish.

Yes, this is easier said than done. But are these golden nuggets truly impossible to emulate? Or is it that we’ve convinced ourselves that forgiveness is impractical, unrealistic—especially in the realm of politics?

I believe it is possible. It begins with a conscious resolve. A commitment to rise above instinct and ego. A willingness to surrender short-term power in the service of long-term peace.

Leadership is not just about vision—it’s about the courage to reconcile. The legacy of Mandela reminds us that greatness often begins where vengeance ends.