Who We Are Makes a Difference

The world has lost a great leader. With the passing of Nelson Mandela, we are reminded of the incredible sacrifices often required of true leadership.

I remember first learning of Nelson Mandela when I was in college. At the time, Mandela was imprisoned at Robben Island, then South Africa’s Alcatraz.

Never giving up, and dedicating his life to the overturning of the repressive policy of apartheid, Mandela left a legacy of resistance and reconciliation.

Despite the fact that Mandela spent a quarter of his life in prison, before finally being released, he made an undeniable impact on his captors, his country and the world.

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”

The above words of Nelson Mandela call out to each of us to assess how our own lives are making a difference to those with whom we serve.

Who we are does make a difference, and living authentically in service to who we are and why we are here makes a lasting impact, years after we depart this life.

Take a few moments today to reflect on the important questions of “who you are” and “what impact you are seeking to make”.

I hope you are blessed with close to the century that Nelson Mandela walked the earth to make your difference. The clock is ticking.