Although business and politics should not mix, the reality is that societal, political and economic influences can seldom be separated from business developments. But while the past week has seen JSE share prices drop as local and international investors consider the stability of the country’s future following Julius Malema’s call for the nationalisation of mines, land and businesses, a new book is striking inspiration into the hearts of South Africans as well.
The book, titled Nelson Mandela By Himself: The Authorised Book of Quotations contains a mix of social and political quotes collected from various speeches, interviews, letters and transcripts that Mandela has given or written.
According to the book’s publishers, Pan Macmillan, in collaboration with PQ Blackwell and the Nelson Mandela Centre for Memory, Nelson Mandela is one of the most quoted – and misquoted – people in the world. The book seeks to put everything Mandela has said over the years in context, dispel any myths or confusion regarding things Mandela did not say, and most importantly inspire South Africans to embrace the vision Mandela had when he walked out of Robben Island 21 years ago. So, if you are in need of a little inspiration and want to go back to the national pride South Africans were sharing one year ago, during the FIFA World Cup, pick up a copy of the book at all good bookstores.
“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.” – Nelson Mandela