The purpose of this blog is to compliment in-class learning and to provide another method of student engagement. Through blog discussions you will have the opportunity to learn more about each other and reflect on your leadership experience.
After reading Nelson Mandela’s Birth of a Freedom Fighter I took much away from the text. For one, I can actually say someone has applied the 7 Cs we have been learning about for the past two years now. Although we have been applying the Cs during our time at UCF, I feel like it is easier to see another doing it because at times we like to think one way, but might not necessarily be that way. Another thing I took away from the text was situations maybe different than you may be used to, but don’t let it discourage you from moving forward. Nelson states, “Once cannot speak to a mass of people as one addresses an audience of two dozen. Yet I have always tried to take the same care to explain matters to great audiences as to small ones”. Another thing I took from the Nelson is that collaboration is very important, even when it might be hard to do so. You can’t lead anyone if you don’t have those who will allow you to lead.
In addition to taking from the text I have taken things away from our class discussion. The most important one would be that our world needs help. If we prompt opportunity at our university and deny a multicultural student organization funds for conferences then what is that saying about our commitment to our university, students, and our community. We are a bunch of hypocrites. Situations like this happen all across our world and on bigger scales. We might be a “young” generation, but we can and do make a difference. We are told that we don’t know anything because we are young and inexperienced. This shouldn’t be discouraging. Instead use it to our advantage, learn through research and self-analysis. If we are passionate enough our voice will be heard from all ages. Always remember your purpose.
The most important thing I got out of our in class discussion was also that the are so many problems surrounding us. I definitely agree with you that we need to stand up for what we believe and not get discouraged by those who tell us we are too young to make a difference. A difference is created by those who are passionate and strive for their goals. We must not only complain and be angry about such issues, but we must act upon them and create that necessary difference.
Nelson Mandela’s drive and passion made him an effective leader. After putting the reading into perspective and comparing it to my own life, I do not think I feel passionately enough about any cause that I would be willing to break laws and go against authorities for. I do not have that much passion to risk my own freedom for any cause. I think many people are not willing to go through the struggle and fight for what they believe in, the way Mandela did. Not many people have that bold courage to risk everything they have. One thing I noticed while reading this section was that Mandela strives off of collaboration with others. With out the help of others nothing he did would have been possible. Mandela had support from members of the ANC who followed him in his fight for freedom. Working well with others is essential in achieving a common goal, and this was made evident by the way Mandela worked with others to finally achieve freedom.
From the discussions in class on Tuesday, I took away many things. The topic that sticks out the most for me was when we talked about politics and voting. I know how important it is to vote in the presidential election, but sometimes it is hard for me to always see this importance. I know that I am not alone on this, because as it was said in class, the Electoral College gets the last say anyways. However, after class on Tuesday and after reading about Mandela, I am more interested in the upcoming election and want to learn more about the candidates, because I feel that our vote can be heard. I was never interested in politics, but after class I am excited to see and hear the debates between the different parties and see student involvement on campus. Although it was talked about in class somewhat, I also want to reiterate the bright future our generation has and I am excited to see us step up and take charge.
I agree with you about not thinking we are passionate enough about our causes. You see others who devote their entire lives, 24/7, to what they believe in. I always wondered how they do it. Do they have jobs? a life away from their cuase? See we are college students with full workloads from classes, student organizations, work, and much other. Would someone who is passionate enough to risk their lives and future think we are not in the cause at all?
I took away from the readings in the book that times during Nelson Mandela's era were very difficult and freedom was hard to come by, granted I was born into freedom. For Mandela to stand up and put his life on the line to find freedom for his people automatically earns him my utmost respect and ideas of what a true leader is. Another huge area of Nelson Mandela that was brought to my attention was how smart of a man he was. He utilized all his resources, including orginizations, officials, and friends.
Discussing this chapter in class helped clear up some of the questions and confusion I encountered while reading. I also took away that Nelson Mandela was a good and interesting leader to fit our class and discussions. He took control of what he visioned and made it reality through perservearence and a passion for freedom and justice for his people. During the class discussion I also realized that I can use some of Nelson's techniques on communication and relating with random crowds and people to help reach my goals during my last semester of Leads. If you want change , you have to do it yourself. No one is going to hold your hand and give away the credit.
I agree with you to the fullest. I think he was a very knowledgable man and he had to over come a lot more struggles than we do today. I wounder how different his outcome would have been and how long would it have taken him, if he had the circumstances we have today. Yes, today we have red tape area's but nothing compared to what his struggles were. Also, we hear alot in college to make connections to reachout to other groups and organizations because you never know who might be able to help you or your cause later down the road. Just like Nelson Mandela we need to take those opprutinities because they helped him in the long run.
I really liked the section we read on Nelson Mandela’s Birth of a Freedom Fighter. I felt that I could relate to similar events and problems he had to face/experience. Most people can't talk about the specific moment when they became leaders because I think its a characteristic that builds up and develops through time. Its essential for the leader to know himself very well before they find what they truly are passionate about, and are willing to give up things in their lives to to fix or better that specific subject.In Nelson Mandela's autobiography, he talks about how he presented his idea of the Youth League to the president of the organization to promote a new image to their organization. His idea, which he thought was great, was totally rejected by the president. Mandela did not just throw away the idea he shaped it in a manner that would be accepted to most people in the organization. I really liked what he did because we can't give up on something we believe in because someone tells us they don't agree with it. We must strive to do our best and like we all know there are times were we do have to compromise in order to reach an agreement and reach the intended goal. Our class discussion was similar to that of the book talk but it made me realize how many problems we have in our society today and yet many people don't do anything about it, or worse of all people are letting these problems continue every day. I feel like its our responsibility to inspire those around us to not only find the problems they see but to find ways to fix the.
This was a really god post Sara. I felt exactly the same way when I was reading this portion of the book. I like that you noted the fact that Mandela did not "throw away the idea he shaped it in a manner that would be accepted to most people in the organization." It is amazing to see a leader in the making, and how no matter what the obstacles, that nothing stooped him from his will to express his beliefs. This is what makes him a leader, as well as a hero. Nelson Mandela is an amazing figure, and I completely agree and feel the same way form reading this excerpt.
After reading Birth of a Freedom Fighter, I was amazed at how much Nelson Mandela was willing to give up for his cause. He showed true leadership and kept fighting for his cause no matter what the consequences. His hard work and determination made it clear that he was extremely passionate for his cause and he was willing to do whatever it took to get the results he wanted. I admire all that he did, but I do not think I could ever be that passionate about something. The times I live in are a lot different than his times of course so I would not have to give up as much as he did to fight for a cause, but when I imagine myself being back in those times fighting for something I believed in I doubt I would have stuck with it like he did. These days we have a lot more freedoms and it does not require as much passion for your cause to fight for what you want because you do not have to risk as much as Nelson Mandela did. I also got a lot out of the class discussion. As we were talking about problems with the system at our University I was very upset to hear how our money is being used. Although I was upset, I did not feel that as one person I could make that much of a difference. When looking at problems like this I always feel like my small voice is not enough to be heard and make a change. This is not true of course because there is proof of one person creating change. One example would be Nelson Mandela and all of the work he did. He was one person and created a ton of change. But even after reading about that, for some reason it still seems impossible for my one voice to make any difference. After the discussion though, I know that it takes one person to start the change and inspire others to join in on their cause. I believe it is our job as students at the University to be the ones to somehow make this change and make it soon.
I agree, Megan. Sometimes it really does seem impossible that one person can make such a difference. It certainly is not easy, but with passion, drive, and superb leadership skills, it is possible. Mandela also had some very strong leadership role models, including Walter Sisulu and Anton Lembede. Role models in our own lives are just as important for the development of our own leadership style.
After reading the Birth of a Freedom Fighter, I questioned the idea of leaderhship and how it is instilled in society. I feel that Nelson Mandela was raised in such a manner of figuring it out on his own and observing what was happening in society, rather than being tought how to act or being told the answer. Also, since he was from an active house hold within his tribe he was able to see how the tribe acted to the higher archie of leaders within the houses. I believe his knowledge and experiences is what lead him to question what was going on with the whites and how he could make a stand against them. The passion that he expressed thoughout his fight was great and how much time he faught for what he believed in, I believe that his passion came from the roots and how he was raised and the people he learned his ideas from. The class discussion had similar ideas to what mine were, saying that everyone in LEAD had to show some gusto to get into the program and what they do with their knowlegde is up to them. The children in today's society are not brought up like they were in Mandela's area, so like myself I don't think we are willing to put so much time and effort into a cause and even less time into a cause that has no direct relation to ourselves. I think the reason I'm not as willing is not just the time but the fact that I have seen stories and read articles of people who have tried to make a stand and weren't able to because of the government or an overseer. To me that is very discouraging and makes me think differently about what is the best way to make change without it being shut down.
I was deeply touched by the sacrifices Nelson Mandela was willing to endure in order to fight for what he believed in. It is often during the times when we are faced with adversity that we build character and strengthen our leadership traits. It takes true strength and perserverance to stand firm in your beliefs. I believe that Nelson Mandela's upbringing contributed to his strong morals and determination to keep on fighting even when others turned down his ideas. I have the utmost respect and praise for Nelson Mandela's efforts.
I completely agree Gabrielle, Nelson Mandela did have outstanding amount of perseverance and strength which saw him through his difficulties. I do not think that I have come across anything that could make me so passionate about a cause. Though I suppose if something did come along I would stand up for what I believe in. I feel as if his story has given me something to think on and learn from showing me that even the darkest of situations a leader can bring hope to his people.
As others have said in class this chapter had a lot of names and acronyms to follow along to, but I was still able to understand the essence of the chapter. This chapter shows how mentally strong Mandela actually was. He was not scared to believe and go forth with the ideas that he had in his head. I still can't believe that he spent 27 years in prison for fighting for what he thought was right. As I reflect back on our class discussion I realize that as of right now there isn't a cause that I feel so passionately about as to spend that much time in jail. However, I do hope that one day I am able to have that kind of passion for something just like Mandela had. Reading this chapter and the class discussion made me realize that in order to create change you have to devote your whole heart into it.
The “Birth of a Freedom Fighter” part of Mandela’s autobiography really highlighted various types of leaders and the details of their leadership style. For example, Mandela looked up to Walter Sisulu because he always kept a cool head despite heated situations. He noted Anton Lembede’s “charismatic” nature that drew people into his visions. Mandela also pointed out some negative aspects of various leaders. For instance, he explained that although Dr. Xuma had done a lot for the ANC, he was a bit overly confident and had an “air of superciliousness that did not befit the leader of a mass organization.”
In this chapter, we see Mandela observing the leadership styles and personalities of other African leaders. At this time, as he says, he had not fully formed as a leader. He mentions that he still felt a lack of confidence when speaking to groups of people. He had not yet gained all the skills he eventually developed. I think this is an important thing for us to keep in mind as we finish our last semester in LEAD. We have come a long way in developing as leaders, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have more to learn. The more leadership experiences we have under our belts, the more knowledgeable and comfortable we can become in leading larger and larger groups of people. Our Social Change group projects should provide a good avenue to continue refining our leadership talents this semester.
We touched on this idea of gradual development of leadership skills in our class discussion as well. We all agreed that there was not one particular moment in which we all of a sudden became a leader. Rather, we have been improving and polishing our abilities over many years and with many experiences.
After reading Birth of a Freedom Rider by Nelson Mandela, it opened my eyes to how much more of a leader I can be. He believed so much in a cause that he was willing to risk his freedom and his rights as a citizen. Not many people have the strength to do such a notion. I can’t say I believe in anything as strong as he did. I also don’t have the courage to give up my liberties for something I believe in. Reading this particular chapter in the book, made me realize that I can improve in that area and have a little more faith in what I believe in.
The class discussion also made me realize a few things about myself. When we started talking about the point in our life where we became a leader, I could not think of a particular moment. I’ve always had the drive to make an impact in my community but I cannot say there is a certain event or time that I knew instantly that I should become a leader. In class when one of my colleagues mentioned that leaders are born not made, I completely agreed. This means that there wasn’t a moment that you can pin down where you knew you were going to become a leader; you were a leader since birth. With that said I would like to continue my leadership as a person who can stand up for what they say and be strong enough to remain standing.
During reflection on both the reading and the class discussion one question stood out to me; Are you willing to give your life for something you believe in? Because Nelson Mandela was willing to sacrifice anything, including his freedom , for his cause. This dedication was at the heart of how Mendela was capable of being such a motivational leader. The passion it takes to be this dedicated is moving and the reason so many people look up to Mendela. Also, Mendela's unwavering dedication to do exactly what he said he stood for stood out . He is a role model to so many because he stood to his word. He was able to walk the walk no matter the consequences. He was willing to stand in solidarity and make waves in the social tide. Leaders have a lot to learn from Mendela's strength to make change despite how many people did not agree with his ideas. This tenacity was put into words by Mendela's word: "when the water starts boiling, it is foolish to turn off the heat."
It blew my mind how someone could be so passionate about something in such a way that they are willing to give up their freedom for a number of years, I think that is so great. I honestly don't think that I have found that passion that would make me give up things such as freedom. There are causes that I am passionate about but not to that degree. Nelson Mandela represents all great traits of leadership and that is why he is such an awesome figure in History. He was not willing to back down he did all that he could to get his point across.
The Sacrifices of Nelson Mandela made me question myself and my values. Would I be able to sacrifice my family time the way he did? Would I be able to spend 27 years in Prison? I suppose I would have to be put in the situation, however as I have yet to come across any causes that I am willing to give up everything for. However I can relate with him when he was new to the organization and didn't know many people. First he had to get used to everything around him and work hard to earn a leadership role. I also like to get to know the rules and people of an organization so I know what to expect when changes come about. I like to know these things because I believe that the people participating within an organization define the organization and its reputation.
As we discussed leaders in class I reflected upon my leadership skills of the past and how they have grown to what they have become today. I really don't think that there was one point where I realized that I wanted to become a leader. Rather it was a series of revelations that came to me throughout a period of time. I used to be very shy and introverted but I did not like being that way and I knew I had to change. I wanted to be outspoken and be heard and I think leadership skills bring out these qualities within me. Giving me a skill I can use for the rest of my life both in my personal and professional life.
The chapter "Birth of a Freedom Fighter" by Nelson Mandela was truly a great excerpt to start off the reading about this amazing leader. I really got a great feeling of the time period that Nelson was born under, as well as the type of struggles he had to undergo. The one thing that struck out to me was the fact that this extremely inspiring leader, himself had someone that inspired him and he looked up to as a mentor. Walter Sisulu was his own person leader, which I think is so important for him to write about. It means a lot to me that Mandela himself had such a strong influence, and the way he described Sisulu was very touching.
The sure fighting spirit that Mandela also has so amazing to read. Mandela also explained the standoff that the followers of the ANC took a part of at the magistrates office, in order to stand up for they felt right. Mandela went through so much just to do what was right for his country. Nelson and his strong opinions as well as the fire he contains in his heart to do something about it, is something that I took away from this chapter. He is a great leader, and this was an amazing start to the readings of "Long Walk to Freedom"
Nelson Mandelas passion is very commendable I am trying to find out what my passion is and this made me realize that sometimes you have to make sacrifices even if it means giving up your freedom because sometimes it takes that much in order for one to get their point across.
This chapter was full of so many leaders. It was hard for me to keep up with the names and there were so many different organizations created by people who liked to take initiative and start up organizations in order to make a difference. Again this goes back to passion; if you are passionate enough about something then sometimes you have to be fearless and take initiative so that the cause is not overlooked.
Jada, I completely agree. As a leader I would love to figure out what is it that I feel truly passionate about. Maybe right now as students, we have the chance to explore all of our interests and develop as leaders. So that in the future when our passions become apparent, we are completely capable of attaining our goals.
Nelson Mandela's upbringing had a lot to do with the leader he became. I believe that his concept applies to all leaders. How we are brought up and the environment we are brought up in contributes significantly to the person we will become. It was his upbringing that made him feel so passionately about a cause and his passion for it that fueled his drive. If you find something that touches you as much as Mandela was touched by the idea of freedom, then any obstacle can be overcome.
After reading Nelson Mandela’s Birth of a Freedom Fighter I took much away from the text. For one, I can actually say someone has applied the 7 Cs we have been learning about for the past two years now. Although we have been applying the Cs during our time at UCF, I feel like it is easier to see another doing it because at times we like to think one way, but might not necessarily be that way. Another thing I took away from the text was situations maybe different than you may be used to, but don’t let it discourage you from moving forward. Nelson states, “Once cannot speak to a mass of people as one addresses an audience of two dozen. Yet I have always tried to take the same care to explain matters to great audiences as to small ones”. Another thing I took from the Nelson is that collaboration is very important, even when it might be hard to do so. You can’t lead anyone if you don’t have those who will allow you to lead.
ReplyDeleteIn addition to taking from the text I have taken things away from our class discussion. The most important one would be that our world needs help. If we prompt opportunity at our university and deny a multicultural student organization funds for conferences then what is that saying about our commitment to our university, students, and our community. We are a bunch of hypocrites. Situations like this happen all across our world and on bigger scales. We might be a “young” generation, but we can and do make a difference. We are told that we don’t know anything because we are young and inexperienced. This shouldn’t be discouraging. Instead use it to our advantage, learn through research and self-analysis. If we are passionate enough our voice will be heard from all ages. Always remember your purpose.
The most important thing I got out of our in class discussion was also that the are so many problems surrounding us. I definitely agree with you that we need to stand up for what we believe and not get discouraged by those who tell us we are too young to make a difference. A difference is created by those who are passionate and strive for their goals. We must not only complain and be angry about such issues, but we must act upon them and create that necessary difference.
DeleteNelson Mandela’s drive and passion made him an effective leader. After putting the reading into perspective and comparing it to my own life, I do not think I feel passionately enough about any cause that I would be willing to break laws and go against authorities for. I do not have that much passion to risk my own freedom for any cause. I think many people are not willing to go through the struggle and fight for what they believe in, the way Mandela did. Not many people have that bold courage to risk everything they have. One thing I noticed while reading this section was that Mandela strives off of collaboration with others. With out the help of others nothing he did would have been possible. Mandela had support from members of the ANC who followed him in his fight for freedom. Working well with others is essential in achieving a common goal, and this was made evident by the way Mandela worked with others to finally achieve freedom.
ReplyDeleteFrom the discussions in class on Tuesday, I took away many things. The topic that sticks out the most for me was when we talked about politics and voting. I know how important it is to vote in the presidential election, but sometimes it is hard for me to always see this importance. I know that I am not alone on this, because as it was said in class, the Electoral College gets the last say anyways. However, after class on Tuesday and after reading about Mandela, I am more interested in the upcoming election and want to learn more about the candidates, because I feel that our vote can be heard. I was never interested in politics, but after class I am excited to see and hear the debates between the different parties and see student involvement on campus. Although it was talked about in class somewhat, I also want to reiterate the bright future our generation has and I am excited to see us step up and take charge.
I agree with you about not thinking we are passionate enough about our causes. You see others who devote their entire lives, 24/7, to what they believe in. I always wondered how they do it. Do they have jobs? a life away from their cuase? See we are college students with full workloads from classes, student organizations, work, and much other. Would someone who is passionate enough to risk their lives and future think we are not in the cause at all?
DeleteI took away from the readings in the book that times during Nelson Mandela's era were very difficult and freedom was hard to come by, granted I was born into freedom. For Mandela to stand up and put his life on the line to find freedom for his people automatically earns him my utmost respect and ideas of what a true leader is. Another huge area of Nelson Mandela that was brought to my attention was how smart of a man he was. He utilized all his resources, including orginizations, officials, and friends.
ReplyDeleteDiscussing this chapter in class helped clear up some of the questions and confusion I encountered while reading. I also took away that Nelson Mandela was a good and interesting leader to fit our class and discussions. He took control of what he visioned and made it reality through perservearence and a passion for freedom and justice for his people. During the class discussion I also realized that I can use some of Nelson's techniques on communication and relating with random crowds and people to help reach my goals during my last semester of Leads. If you want change , you have to do it yourself. No one is going to hold your hand and give away the credit.
I agree with you to the fullest. I think he was a very knowledgable man and he had to over come a lot more struggles than we do today. I wounder how different his outcome would have been and how long would it have taken him, if he had the circumstances we have today. Yes, today we have red tape area's but nothing compared to what his struggles were.
DeleteAlso, we hear alot in college to make connections to reachout to other groups and organizations because you never know who might be able to help you or your cause later down the road. Just like Nelson Mandela we need to take those opprutinities because they helped him in the long run.
I really liked the section we read on Nelson Mandela’s Birth of a Freedom Fighter. I felt that I could relate to similar events and problems he had to face/experience. Most people can't talk about the specific moment when they became leaders because I think its a characteristic that builds up and develops through time. Its essential for the leader to know himself very well before they find what they truly are passionate about, and are willing to give up things in their lives to to fix or better that specific subject.In Nelson Mandela's autobiography, he talks about how he presented his idea of the Youth League to the president of the organization to promote a new image to their organization. His idea, which he thought was great, was totally rejected by the president. Mandela did not just throw away the idea he shaped it in a manner that would be accepted to most people in the organization. I really liked what he did because we can't give up on something we believe in because someone tells us they don't agree with it. We must strive to do our best and like we all know there are times were we do have to compromise in order to reach an agreement and reach the intended goal. Our class discussion was similar to that of the book talk but it made me realize how many problems we have in our society today and yet many people don't do anything about it, or worse of all people are letting these problems continue every day. I feel like its our responsibility to inspire those around us to not only find the problems they see but to find ways to fix the.
ReplyDeleteThis was a really god post Sara. I felt exactly the same way when I was reading this portion of the book. I like that you noted the fact that Mandela did not "throw away the idea he shaped it in a manner that would be accepted to most people in the organization." It is amazing to see a leader in the making, and how no matter what the obstacles, that nothing stooped him from his will to express his beliefs. This is what makes him a leader, as well as a hero. Nelson Mandela is an amazing figure, and I completely agree and feel the same way form reading this excerpt.
DeleteThanks,
Sheila Heiman
After reading Birth of a Freedom Fighter, I was amazed at how much Nelson Mandela was willing to give up for his cause. He showed true leadership and kept fighting for his cause no matter what the consequences. His hard work and determination made it clear that he was extremely passionate for his cause and he was willing to do whatever it took to get the results he wanted. I admire all that he did, but I do not think I could ever be that passionate about something. The times I live in are a lot different than his times of course so I would not have to give up as much as he did to fight for a cause, but when I imagine myself being back in those times fighting for something I believed in I doubt I would have stuck with it like he did. These days we have a lot more freedoms and it does not require as much passion for your cause to fight for what you want because you do not have to risk as much as Nelson Mandela did.
ReplyDeleteI also got a lot out of the class discussion. As we were talking about problems with the system at our University I was very upset to hear how our money is being used. Although I was upset, I did not feel that as one person I could make that much of a difference. When looking at problems like this I always feel like my small voice is not enough to be heard and make a change. This is not true of course because there is proof of one person creating change. One example would be Nelson Mandela and all of the work he did. He was one person and created a ton of change. But even after reading about that, for some reason it still seems impossible for my one voice to make any difference. After the discussion though, I know that it takes one person to start the change and inspire others to join in on their cause. I believe it is our job as students at the University to be the ones to somehow make this change and make it soon.
I agree, Megan. Sometimes it really does seem impossible that one person can make such a difference. It certainly is not easy, but with passion, drive, and superb leadership skills, it is possible. Mandela also had some very strong leadership role models, including Walter Sisulu and Anton Lembede. Role models in our own lives are just as important for the development of our own leadership style.
DeleteAfter reading the Birth of a Freedom Fighter, I questioned the idea of leaderhship and how it is instilled in society. I feel that Nelson Mandela was raised in such a manner of figuring it out on his own and observing what was happening in society, rather than being tought how to act or being told the answer. Also, since he was from an active house hold within his tribe he was able to see how the tribe acted to the higher archie of leaders within the houses. I believe his knowledge and experiences is what lead him to question what was going on with the whites and how he could make a stand against them. The passion that he expressed thoughout his fight was great and how much time he faught for what he believed in, I believe that his passion came from the roots and how he was raised and the people he learned his ideas from.
ReplyDeleteThe class discussion had similar ideas to what mine were, saying that everyone in LEAD had to show some gusto to get into the program and what they do with their knowlegde is up to them. The children in today's society are not brought up like they were in Mandela's area, so like myself I don't think we are willing to put so much time and effort into a cause and even less time into a cause that has no direct relation to ourselves. I think the reason I'm not as willing is not just the time but the fact that I have seen stories and read articles of people who have tried to make a stand and weren't able to because of the government or an overseer. To me that is very discouraging and makes me think differently about what is the best way to make change without it being shut down.
I was deeply touched by the sacrifices Nelson Mandela was willing to endure in order to fight for what he believed in. It is often during the times when we are faced with adversity that we build character and strengthen our leadership traits. It takes true strength and perserverance to stand firm in your beliefs. I believe that Nelson Mandela's upbringing contributed to his strong morals and determination to keep on fighting even when others turned down his ideas. I have the utmost respect and praise for Nelson Mandela's efforts.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree Gabrielle, Nelson Mandela did have outstanding amount of perseverance and strength which saw him through his difficulties. I do not think that I have come across anything that could make me so passionate about a cause. Though I suppose if something did come along I would stand up for what I believe in. I feel as if his story has given me something to think on and learn from showing me that even the darkest of situations a leader can bring hope to his people.
DeleteAs others have said in class this chapter had a lot of names and acronyms to follow along to, but I was still able to understand the essence of the chapter. This chapter shows how mentally strong Mandela actually was. He was not scared to believe and go forth with the ideas that he had in his head. I still can't believe that he spent 27 years in prison for fighting for what he thought was right. As I reflect back on our class discussion I realize that as of right now there isn't a cause that I feel so passionately about as to spend that much time in jail. However, I do hope that one day I am able to have that kind of passion for something just like Mandela had. Reading this chapter and the class discussion made me realize that in order to create change you have to devote your whole heart into it.
ReplyDeleteThe “Birth of a Freedom Fighter” part of Mandela’s autobiography really highlighted various types of leaders and the details of their leadership style. For example, Mandela looked up to Walter Sisulu because he always kept a cool head despite heated situations. He noted Anton Lembede’s “charismatic” nature that drew people into his visions. Mandela also pointed out some negative aspects of various leaders. For instance, he explained that although Dr. Xuma had done a lot for the ANC, he was a bit overly confident and had an “air of superciliousness that did not befit the leader of a mass organization.”
ReplyDeleteIn this chapter, we see Mandela observing the leadership styles and personalities of other African leaders. At this time, as he says, he had not fully formed as a leader. He mentions that he still felt a lack of confidence when speaking to groups of people. He had not yet gained all the skills he eventually developed. I think this is an important thing for us to keep in mind as we finish our last semester in LEAD. We have come a long way in developing as leaders, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have more to learn. The more leadership experiences we have under our belts, the more knowledgeable and comfortable we can become in leading larger and larger groups of people. Our Social Change group projects should provide a good avenue to continue refining our leadership talents this semester.
We touched on this idea of gradual development of leadership skills in our class discussion as well. We all agreed that there was not one particular moment in which we all of a sudden became a leader. Rather, we have been improving and polishing our abilities over many years and with many experiences.
After reading Birth of a Freedom Rider by Nelson Mandela, it opened my eyes to how much more of a leader I can be. He believed so much in a cause that he was willing to risk his freedom and his rights as a citizen. Not many people have the strength to do such a notion. I can’t say I believe in anything as strong as he did. I also don’t have the courage to give up my liberties for something I believe in. Reading this particular chapter in the book, made me realize that I can improve in that area and have a little more faith in what I believe in.
ReplyDeleteThe class discussion also made me realize a few things about myself. When we started talking about the point in our life where we became a leader, I could not think of a particular moment. I’ve always had the drive to make an impact in my community but I cannot say there is a certain event or time that I knew instantly that I should become a leader. In class when one of my colleagues mentioned that leaders are born not made, I completely agreed. This means that there wasn’t a moment that you can pin down where you knew you were going to become a leader; you were a leader since birth. With that said I would like to continue my leadership as a person who can stand up for what they say and be strong enough to remain standing.
During reflection on both the reading and the class discussion one question stood out to me; Are you willing to give your life for something you believe in? Because Nelson Mandela was willing to sacrifice anything, including his freedom , for his cause. This dedication was at the heart of how Mendela was capable of being such a motivational leader. The passion it takes to be this dedicated is moving and the reason so many people look up to Mendela.
ReplyDeleteAlso, Mendela's unwavering dedication to do exactly what he said he stood for stood out . He is a role model to so many because he stood to his word. He was able to walk the walk no matter the consequences. He was willing to stand in solidarity and make waves in the social tide. Leaders have a lot to learn from Mendela's strength to make change despite how many people did not agree with his ideas. This tenacity was put into words by Mendela's word: "when the water starts boiling, it is foolish to turn off the heat."
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DeleteIt blew my mind how someone could be so passionate about something in such a way that they are willing to give up their freedom for a number of years, I think that is so great. I honestly don't think that I have found that passion that would make me give up things such as freedom. There are causes that I am passionate about but not to that degree. Nelson Mandela represents all great traits of leadership and that is why he is such an awesome figure in History. He was not willing to back down he did all that he could to get his point across.
DeleteThe Sacrifices of Nelson Mandela made me question myself and my values. Would I be able to sacrifice my family time the way he did? Would I be able to spend 27 years in Prison? I suppose I would have to be put in the situation, however as I have yet to come across any causes that I am willing to give up everything for. However I can relate with him when he was new to the organization and didn't know many people. First he had to get used to everything around him and work hard to earn a leadership role. I also like to get to know the rules and people of an organization so I know what to expect when changes come about. I like to know these things because I believe that the people participating within an organization define the organization and its reputation.
ReplyDeleteAs we discussed leaders in class I reflected upon my leadership skills of the past and how they have grown to what they have become today. I really don't think that there was one point where I realized that I wanted to become a leader. Rather it was a series of revelations that came to me throughout a period of time. I used to be very shy and introverted but I did not like being that way and I knew I had to change. I wanted to be outspoken and be heard and I think leadership skills bring out these qualities within me. Giving me a skill I can use for the rest of my life both in my personal and professional life.
The chapter "Birth of a Freedom Fighter" by Nelson Mandela was truly a great excerpt to start off the reading about this amazing leader. I really got a great feeling of the time period that Nelson was born under, as well as the type of struggles he had to undergo. The one thing that struck out to me was the fact that this extremely inspiring leader, himself had someone that inspired him and he looked up to as a mentor. Walter Sisulu was his own person leader, which I think is so important for him to write about. It means a lot to me that Mandela himself had such a strong influence, and the way he described Sisulu was very touching.
ReplyDeleteThe sure fighting spirit that Mandela also has so amazing to read. Mandela also explained the standoff that the followers of the ANC took a part of at the magistrates office, in order to stand up for they felt right. Mandela went through so much just to do what was right for his country. Nelson and his strong opinions as well as the fire he contains in his heart to do something about it, is something that I took away from this chapter. He is a great leader, and this was an amazing start to the readings of "Long Walk to Freedom"
Thanks,
Sheila Heiman
Nelson Mandelas passion is very commendable I am trying to find out what my passion is and this made me realize that sometimes you have to make sacrifices even if it means giving up your freedom because sometimes it takes that much in order for one to get their point across.
ReplyDeleteThis chapter was full of so many leaders. It was hard for me to keep up with the names and there were so many different organizations created by people who liked to take initiative and start up organizations in order to make a difference. Again this goes back to passion; if you are passionate enough about something then sometimes you have to be fearless and take initiative so that the cause is not overlooked.
Jada,
DeleteI completely agree. As a leader I would love to figure out what is it that I feel truly passionate about. Maybe right now as students, we have the chance to explore all of our interests and develop as leaders. So that in the future when our passions become apparent, we are completely capable of attaining our goals.
Nelson Mandela's upbringing had a lot to do with the leader he became. I believe that his concept applies to all leaders. How we are brought up and the environment we are brought up in contributes significantly to the person we will become. It was his upbringing that made him feel so passionately about a cause and his passion for it that fueled his drive. If you find something that touches you as much as Mandela was touched by the idea of freedom, then any obstacle can be overcome.
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