Nelson Mandela's legacy honored by NFL community
Nelson Mandela isn't an easy person to categorize in a short headline. The New York Times called him a dissident, liberator and statesman.
The first black president of South Africa died Thursday at the age of 95, sparking a worldwide mourning that few others could inspire. Mandela, who emancipated his country from white minority rule, had a worldwide impact that went far beyond politics. (Including a deep connection with soccer.)
Many members of the NFL community expressed their thoughts and condolences after Mandela died Thursday:
"There is no passion to be found in playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living." Mandela -SG
— Steve Gleason - Explorer Child (@SteveGleason) December 5, 2013
RIP Nelson Mandela. Thank you for the sacrifices you made to help further the cause of human equality! We all owe you a debt of gratitude.
— Lance Briggs (@LanceBriggs) December 5, 2013
My thoughts on the passing of Nelson #Mandela #RIPNelsonMandela pic.twitter.com/OpPUaSxgph
— Larry Fitzgerald (@LarryFitzgerald) December 5, 2013
Today The World Lost A GREAT Man! #RIP Nelson Mandela http://t.co/wHBYe0rUpt
— Darius Butler (@DariusJButler) December 5, 2013
A great light just went out RIP Nelson Mandela
— Dflo29 (@DraytonFlorence) December 5, 2013
Rip Nelson Mandela. "A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."
— Felix Jones 2 (@felixjones28) December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandela #Mandela