subject: Thank You Letter - My Humble Thanks to the Great Nelson Mandela [print this page] Thank You Letter - My Humble Thanks to the Great Nelson Mandela
There isn't a man known more for his courage, leadership, and passion for equality and freedom than Nelson Mandela. A Nobel Peace Prize Awardee, his name and life story have reverberated through history and touched the lives and feelings of millions all over the world for the ideals he stood for and the fervor in which he fought for them. I, like many, have found him to be an inspiration and would like to extend my appreciation through this simple thank you letter.
Dear Sir,
There is no doubt that your life story is one filled with many challenges, strife, and sacrifice--both physical and ideological in nature. The difficulty that you went through in those many years you spent in jail is something that I cannot possibly even begin to imagine. Yet, your life's history is also abundant in courage, passion, and victory. And herein lies my great admiration for you. I am awed at how you could remain optimistic despite the bad circumstances you were in. You have inspired me by being a constant reminder that it is possible to overcome any challenge with a positive outlook.
In my opinion, out of the many individuals in history who have attained fame and prosperity, you are, for me, the perfect picture of success. You were able to make the most out of the opportunities that were available to you and never stopped in wanting and aiming for more. You never settled for "what is" knowing that there was a world of infinite possibilities available. You strived and persisted and triumphed against all odds. And to me, that's what makes you so admirable and worthy to be emulated. I am sure that many feel the way I do and have sent their own thank you letter to let you know this.
While many emphasize how they have learned about the importance of equality and freedom through you, for me the most important lesson I have gained from you is the importance of character. You showed that even if we attain the highest degree of education or are born into privilege because of our family, our lives are still insignificant if we do not have personal strength and integrity to create something on our own. As is evident in your story, it wasn't your privileged education or the fact that you were raised for leadership that led to your success, but your own courage and positive action.
You have inspired me in so many ways. You have instilled in me the value of bravery, character, and of opening my eyes and heart to see the real situation of the world. I don't think this thank you letter can ever be enough to let you know how grateful I am.
