Letter: USA stands for UNITED States of America

The Power of Sport: A Legacy of Unity and Inspiration, which Nelson Mandela embraced as the iconic anti-apartheid revolutionary and President of South Africa, is not a well-known part of his history.

Mandela, better known for his contributions to Peace, Justice and equality, was not as well known for his connection to the world of sports. His association with sports not only helped break down racial barriers but also served as a symbol of hope and unity during the most challenging periods in South Africa’s history.

Realizing that South Africa was deeply divided along racial lines he recognized that sports had the power to unite a fractured nation when in 1995 while attending the Rugby World Cup Tournament, he wore the Springbok Jersey, traditionally a symbol of apartheid, and it sent a powerful message of inclusivity.

As Springboks went on to win the tournament, Mandela’s embrace of the team transcended sport. It symbolized a new South Africa where unity and reconciliation were possible.

Nelson Mandela’s Connection to sports goes far beyond his role as a political leader. He saw the potential of sports to heal wounds, unite communities and inspire hope.

Engaging in Sports and the joy of just ordinary play can take us away from our present day political chaos and fear of what next?

There are many ways we can keep our bodies, minds and spirits healthy as we come together to enjoy the spirit of just being together and community life (come unity), building trust that unifies. A quote from Deuteronomy in the Old Testament echos the rewards of a healthy life: “I put before you Life or Death, choose Life,” and both Mattew 12:22 from the New Testament and Abraham Lincoln: “Every city or house divided against itself will not stand” For what do we stand dear citizens of our beloved country?

I want to stand next to Lady Liberty, our symbol of America, given to us as a gift from France, a reminder to myself of that for which the gift from France stands: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. The wretched refuse of your teeming shore Send these, the tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp, beside the golden door!” I, too, yearn to “breathe free” and often need these words to remember that I often find myself among those who come to my shore, often tired and poor and seeking the embrace of America’s history and soul.

I, too, need the mantle of welcome, camaraderie, belonging and the blessing of freedom of choice. The freedom to love, to uphold Life, Liberty and Justice for all I, too, need to take seriously the words of JFK: “Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country.” I want to work and spend efficiently since my quality of work and what I buy effects our nation, our environment and economy, and to look at IN GOD WE TRUST written on our currency. Most of all I need to remember that it is the inscription on the money not the money that is more empowering than any president we have or have had or what money can buy. That our Love for one another is more meaningful, more unifying and secure than what could securely be kept in a bank.

May I have the courage of great leaders such as Nelson Mandela to stand for the truth in the face of falsehood and to continue honoring in my words and actions the privilege of being a USA citizen.

Mary Lee Hillenbrand
Ferdinand