With news spreading about the passing of Nelson Mandela, two local residents took a minute Thursday to remember the man whose way of living inspired, in part, their own.
Images from Nelson Mandela's later years. >>
Mandela’s stand against apartheid had far-reaching effects not only for South Africa, but also for the United States, said Karyn Combs, principal at Florosa Elementary School.
“His existence, his beliefs, his stand against injustice paved the way for many people of color, but in particular for those who have been in the struggle,” Combs said.
As the only African American principal in Okaloosa County, Combs said his story inspires her.
“It gives me the strength to do what is right for children in serving as a role model,” she said.
His example calls for people everywhere to make a stand in their own part of the world.
“Freedom is not free,” Combs said. “We have to be individuals who are strong and we have to stand up against injustice and racism.”
Mandela was a “divine-ordered man with a God-ordered assignment,” said Lewis Jennings, who added that Mandela fulfilled those orders.
Jennings, the NAACP’s Florida State Conference director for Areas 1 and 2, first learned about Mandela years ago when he was imprisoned in South Africa.
“He was certainly a role model for all of us to follow,” Jennings said.
For Mandela to live to 95 after undergoing such hardships and turmoil was simply amazing.
“You have to give it to God,” Jennings said. “God allowed him to stay on this earth and serve.
"When you do something for others, your legacy lives on.”
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Lauren Delgado at 850-315-4445 or ldelgado@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @LaurenDnwfdn.
