“Sometimes, I feel like one who is on the sidelines, who has missed life itself.”
Image credits: John Mathew Smith 2001,”From Wash D.C. Longworth building October 4, 1994. Mandela’s first trip to the United States.”,CC BY-SA 2.0,Nelson Mandela 1994 – Nelson Mandela – Wikipedia
- July 18, 1918 – December 5, 2013
- Born in South Africa
- Politician, lawyer
- The first black president of South Africa, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for abolishing apartheid and building a democratic South Africa where multiple ethnic groups coexist.
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Quote
“Sometimes, I feel like one who is on the sidelines, who has missed life itself.”
Explanation
In this quote, Nelson Mandela expresses a poignant feeling of regret or disconnection from life, despite his remarkable journey as a leader and freedom fighter. The metaphor of being “on the sidelines” suggests a sense of being removed from the ordinary experiences of life, possibly due to the years he spent in prison or focused on the struggle for South Africa’s freedom. Mandela was incarcerated for 27 years, a period during which he was separated from his family, his personal life, and the everyday experiences that others enjoyed. This quote captures a moment of reflection on the sacrifices he made and the personal costs of his dedication to the liberation of his people.
Mandela’s statement touches on the emotional toll of living a life dedicated to political struggle and leadership. While he became an international symbol of courage and freedom, there were personal losses that came with his commitment to the anti-apartheid movement—losses in terms of family, relationships, and the simpler joys of life. His experience highlights the often isolating nature of leadership, where the demands of duty can cause one to feel detached or distanced from personal fulfillment or joy.
This sentiment is also universal in its reflection on the tension between public duty and personal life. Mandela’s quote resonates with anyone who has had to sacrifice personal happiness for a greater cause or a higher responsibility. It is a reminder of the human side of those who lead extraordinary lives, and the emotional complexities they may face. Even those who achieve greatness and influence can have moments of self-doubt or longing for experiences that they feel they have missed.
