lola.love+live.life: Thank You, Madiba!

I wrote this on Dec 5, 2013, the day my beloved Tata Madiba, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela went home to heaven.

"I sit in shock and joy hearing the news of Nelson Mandela’s transition to heaven.

Shock, because he has played a critical role in who I am today. Growing up in Nigeria, witnessing the day he walked out of prison as a child, to the transformative leader he was.

Joy, because we Africans celebrate the passing of an elder who LIVED! He changed this world for so many beyond the continent of Africa."

What can I say about Madiba's influence in my life? I wrote a list of 40 things (No, I am not sharing the entire list) and I can say that because he lived, I am (Ubuntu):

1. "I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death." — Nelson Mandela (Long Walk to Freedom: Autobiography of Nelson Mandela)

2. Forgiveness is a prerequisite for complete freedom. If you are not free emotionally or spiritually, you close the door to the best of what life has to offer you.

3. I was not created to live small. Small is for the birds, so live FULLY!

4. Certain challenges seem insurmountable, until you chisel (or sledgehammer) away bit by bit, to the other side.

5. We are all called to serve. Your form of service is tied to your passion. Serve your community, family, friends, etc. It is a key ingredient to a fulfilled life and legacy.

6. Fear and Courage go hand in hand. Everything worth doing comes with a healthy dose of fear. Victory, in part, comes with the knowledge that you conquered your fear. Be BRAVE!

7. You will fail at certain things. (trust me) You have a choice--give up and stay down, or dust yourself off and get back in the game. It's your decision and ... your life!

8. Living is not just about doing for yourself, but what you do for others as well.

9. Seek goodness daily! Start your day with gratitude and positivity. When was the last time you performed a random act of kindness? If you are stuck, Bat Boy is a good reminder.

10. Enduring love is a healthy relationship with the right partner, who loves you flaws and all and vice versa. It is a connection, partnership, friendship, and it is worth the wait.