Nelson Mandela’s Great Decision *What was Nelson Mandela’s decision to choose forgiveness and reconciliation over revenge? Despite enduring inhumane imprisonment for 27 years, he set aside personal grudges. He did not punish the white people who brutally enforced apartheid on black people. Mandela’s forgiveness was a political decision to prevent the misfortune of revenge leading to more revenge. It was forgiveness for the future. That is why his courage and inclusiveness are so great.

• From Kim In-sik’s ‘I Walked Alone as a Free Spirit’ –

Great forgiveness transcends race and ideology. It is a spiritual decision that goes beyond political parties and sects. Just punishment is necessary. However, it is also important to make decisions that prevent the vicious cycle of crime leading to crime and revenge leading to revenge. That is why Mandela’s great decision touched everyone’s soul.