Today is the memorial service for Nelson Mandela, part of a ten-day mourning period before the December 15 burial. Last Saturday was a national Day of Prayer and Reflection. We went to the neighborhood of Nelson Mandela's most recent home in Houghton, a suburb on the northeastern side of Johannesburg.
Crowds in Houghton were blocks long and big. The atmosphere was a blend of sadness, calm, respect and joyful celebration. Hawkers sold Mandela memorabilia. Grieving citizens laid many flowers and lit many candles. And, every now and then loud, frantic, rhythmic singing and dancing erupted.
It was a memorable experience to witness part of South Africa's loving farewell to Madiba (Mandela's clan name). It was like being present for George Washington's funeral.
21 comments:
It's incredible that you're there at this special moment of South Africa's history. I was in front of my TV this morning to follow celebrations. I guess you'll never forget those moments of your life.Thank you for reporting!
Excellent shots. He was humanity at its best.
Jack, I just heard President Obama's remarks to that enormous crowd, honoring Mandela. An amazing experience to be in South Africa at any time and particularly now during this memorial period. You will not forget it, Jack. Hope your journey home is safe!
Great pictures Jack. Thank you.
how wonderful for you to have been there...beautiful photos
I was hoping you would have some photos from this spot. Beautiful! I can't remember another man who has stirred such emotion and respect in my lifetime.
What an amazing opportunity to experience.
How wonderful that you happened to be in Africa and be able to see such a historic even! He was indeed such an amazing man and such a hero for his country and the world! Wonderful captures. Thank you so much, Jack, for sharing these!!
It's great to see such a turn out.
Mersad
Mersad Donko Photography
I feel like I am there too. Thanks, Jack. Wonderful photos.
So glad you could be there to help celebrate his life and works. Thank you for the photos.
Something you will always remember, Jack!
Yes Jack a very moving time to be there - one of life's most memorable events.
Amazing you could be there - a once in a lifetime experience and once in a lifetime man...
That would be a wonderful memory to have. Thanks for sharing yours.
WOW - what a time to be there. Thanks for sharing.
Roving City Daily Photo photographer turned photojournalist -- love it! Nice documentation, Jack. I bet it was an unforgettable experience.
yes, that must have been an experience...!
Must have been quite an experience to be there Jack.
It must have been amazing to witness.
Jack, I would have simply loved to be there in such a sad period! You were very lucky to be able to witness all of this in person.
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