Nelson Mandela recently passed away, and is considered to be one of the most influential figures in the world. Times magazine illustrates Nelson Mandela’s keys to leadership with eight lessons. Lesson six is the one I find to be most connected with. Lesson six talks about the importance of appearance and having a smile. This lesson relates to me because whenever I face a challenge all though I am struggling, I always try to hide my pain. I do this in order to prevent my younger cousins from seeing me have a hard time with something. The best way to hide my struggles is by smiling. My younger cousins look to me as a role model, so I always try to embrace my troubles, and show to them that they should do the same. I teach them that when you face a challenge it is temporary and with hard work it can be overcome, therefore smiling will never hurt. In addition to this the way I dress myself and present myself is also important. I try not to wear anything that may be disrespectable to somebody. My appearance gives people an indication of the type of person I am, so it is important for me to dress appropriately. This lesson is important because it always necessary to present yourself as someone who is strong and respectful.
In regards to Nelson Mandela, Mandela’s smile gives people the indication of his forgiveness towards the men that put him to prison. In the video it says that Mandela’s smile gives him his power and fades away the sorrow and anguish from his face, which he actually feels. Many people wonder how Nelson Mandela, a man who has experienced great hardship, does not have bitterness. The video states that although Nelson Mandela smiles, he does feel sorrow for losing so much of his life; not being able to spend precious time with his wife and kids. However, Mandela understands the importance of the way he presents himself to the people, and smiling is a key aspect. Moreover, Mandela also felt that dressing correctly is important in presenting one self. Therefore, Mandela was found wearing suits in a lot of occasions. Another important thing Nelson Mandela felt, was the need to show to people that he was human and also made mistakes. Mandela was a very influential leader and figure not only to South Africa, but also to most of the World.
Nelson Mandela
(1918-2013)
