WHAT IF?

It is so easy to interject personal reflections and historical what ifs during the Mandiba remembrance.

Seeing that the ceremony taking place today is being held at the  First National Bank Stadium my mind wonders.

 It is easy to think about the diamonds mined by native peoples,adorning the rich throughout the world. How many banks exist due to the exploitation of others?

It is easy to think about the Zulu Anglo war, and to wonder what if the Zulu's had won although we know that they fought valiantly.

Prior to the Neo Nazi resurrection being installed after the World War II in South Africa ,  the "partition" of Africa in the 1880's and the re-fortification of colonialism  throughout the developing world again just after a world war between the competing armies of conservative white supremacy and liberal white supremacy, my mind wonders,What if ?

I want to believe in the goodness of people, but why is it always left to the Mandelas, and the Kings, and to the X's to be the moral guidepost conductors.

Why is Malcolm X denied to be remembered by his last name El Hajj Malik El Shabazz and few remember the Organization of African Unity which he had started. 


Few remember the speech given by Martin Luther King, Jr, where he talks about being black and proud , his speech about economic justice. Imagine the speech that Martin luther King, Jr, would have given at the Poor People's March which was being planned but for his assassination.

Yes the what ifs in my mind are many, but this media moment is full of learning, inspiration, prayer and action.

Comments

valencia64 said…
I believe the media has done a great job in providing the platform for the world to pay tribute to South Africa's 1st Black President. I believe President Obama stated it very well when he said "I believe it (Mandela's death) should also prompt in each of us a time for self-reflection. With honesty, regardless of our station or circumstance, we must ask: how well have I applied his lessons in my own life?" Many have shown respect for President Mandela but don't aspire to his beliefs. the "What if" is living NOW to teach our children to not only a mind set of determination and success but a mind set which includes the fruits of the spirit-