Clarity: Nelson Mandela Has Passed On. A Giant Oak Tree has Fallen in the Forest.

I've just heard that Nelson Mandela has passed on.

I knew he was sick, but the news has hit me

and I've been texting like an old morse code operator

to everyone I think would care.

Here are some of the things they said in return:

Oh, such a bearer of Freedom's flame - we will be dancing and singing in his honour tomorrow.
May we all be inspired by this humble, phenominal man
A very rare man who served his generation and left the world a bettter place than when he entered it.
He achieved an incredible amount in his lifetime. He will be missed by all.
He is my Hero. Forgiveness in action, black belt in humility and compassion
Reminds me to take the baton and fulfil on my purpose - how about you?
An inspirational soul that will leave a long memory. Massive loss to the world
The acorns of wisdom he has scattered throughout the earth, will bear the fruit of his legacy of equality, love and vision
Awesome man. Great legacy for all of us.
He will be remembered for significant positive change in the world. Thankfully there are other oak trees planted.
I just saw an interview when he was asked about the impact of him being assasinated. He said: "We are a collective. We have lost thousands of freedom fighters to get this far. I am just another one. There are many fine men and women who will continue to lead our people along this way."
A sad day indeed. Incredible how one man can have such an impact! I'm a mess!
Indeed a huge man for mankind.

I know he didn't write this, but he really made this following verse come alive for me and has continued to nourish me ever since I've heard it:

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?

Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God.

Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.

We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.