³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ

Tuesday 18th March 2014

(3) Magnanimity

Good morning Realising that it was ‘on this day’, the 18th of March 1992, that white South Africans voted decisively for the end of apartheid I’m reminded of the memorable occasion when I found myself in the near presence of the late Mr Nelson Mandela:Ìý St James’ Palace in 2005 at an Investiture of the Priory of England and the Islands of the Order of St John. I was present as a Priory Chaplain . Mr Mandela was to be Invested as a Bailiff Grand Cross of the Order by the Grand Prior, The Duke of Gloucester, acting for Her Majesty the Queen.

As Mr Mandela was escorted into the Throne Room an intense silence fell on the already-silent gathering – sheer awe in the presence of human greatness; and ‘presence’ is the appropriate word. Those receiving honours had been instructed to respond to the Duke’s words of Investiture by bowing and saying simply, Thank you, Sir. But Mr Mandela in a quiet but clearly audible voice said, uniquely, Please convey my thanks to Her Gracious Majesty – and it seemed entirely appropriate: one ‘regal’ personage conveying a message to another.

Amidst the many recent reflections on his life and death, in film, newspaper and broadcast media, for me one quality has marked Mandela out as an icon for our times and all times : his ability to absorb suffering and respond with magnanimity.
Ìý
So, Lord God, remove from our hearts the spirit of suspicion, hatred and revenge towards those who hurt us, oppose us and do us wrong. May big-heartedness mark all our dealings in politics, business and personal relationships. AMENÌý