The time for the healing of the wounds has come. The moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. The time to build is upon us.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Mandela declares that the time has come to heal societal wounds and begin reconstruction.
- In plain terms
- We must stop fighting and start fixing our country.
- What can you take from it?
- Reconstruction and healing must begin now.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we heal deep societal wounds?
- When does healing begin after conflict?
Another view
It offers a call to action without a specific plan.
More from Nelson Mandela
We thank all our distinguished international guests for having come to take possession with the people of our country of what is, after all, a common victory f…
Permalink to quote #43 We succeeded to take our last steps to freedom in conditions of relative peace. We commit ourselves to the construction of a complete, just and lasting peace. …
Permalink to quote #45 Our daily deeds as ordinary South Africans must produce an actual South African reality that will reinforce humanity's belief in justice, strengthen its confid…
Permalink to quote #42
Related quotes
'Reconciliation between our communities, following all the hurt and distress of 2000, is a critical part of the reconstruction of the country.'
Laisenia QaraseLaisenia Qarase quote #40 'With a resounding yes I say we can reconcile and that it really is a matter of the heart.' (27 July 2005)
Laisenia QaraseLaisenia Qarase quote #19 'One minute of reconciliation is worth more than a whole life of friendship.' (p. 282)
Gabriel Garcia MarquezGabriel Garcia Marquez quote #21