Nelson Mandela is the former president of South Africa, as well as a well known and respected humanitarian, activist, philanthropist, politician, and revolutionary.  Millions look towards Mandelas actions as they fight for their own human rights across the world.  It is hard to argue against the idea that he was one of the most influential leaders in recent memory.

Here are a few of his most powerful quotes:

1. “I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.” – Nelson Mandela

2. “Forget the past” – Nelson Mandela

3. “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” – Nelson Mandela

4. “Difficulties break some men but make others. No axe is sharp enough to cut the soul of a sinner who keeps on trying, one armed with the hope that he will rise even in the end.” – Nelson Mandela

5. “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination” – Nelson Mandela

6. “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

7. “When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace.” – Nelson Mandela

8. “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela

9. “And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same” – Nelson Mandela

10. “Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.” – Nelson Mandela

11. “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy.  Then he becomes your partner” – Nelson Mandela

12. “A fundamental concern for others in our individual and community lives would go a long way in making the world the better place we so passionately dreamt of.” – Nelson Mandela

13. “Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.” – Nelson Mandela

14. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

15. “Let each know that for each the body, the mind, and the soul have been freed to fullfill themselves” – Nelson Mandela

16. “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela

17. “Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” – Nelson Mandela

18. “After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb” – Nelson Mandela

19. “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” – Nelson Mandela

20. “When the water starts boiling it is foolish to turn off the heat” – Nelson Mandela

21. “Money won’t create success, the freedom to make it will.” – Nelson Mandela

22. “Courageous people do not fear forgiving, for the sake of peace” – Nelson Mandela

23. “We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.” – Nelson Mandela

24. “Man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished” – Nelson Mandela

25. “Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.” – Nelson Mandela

26. “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” – Nelson Mandela

27. “I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.” – Nelson Mandela

28. “When people are determined they can overcome anything.” – Nelson Mandela

What is your favorite Nelson Mandela Quote?  Comment Below!