On behalf of the world community we wish Nelson Mandela a happy birthday!

As Mandela turns 90 we observe the enormous strides he made toward pursuing freedom and justice not only in his home nation of South Africa but as a spokesperson of conscience throughout the world.

Mandela's long trial of ordeal demonstrated that patience was as important as vigilance in achieving long term goals.  

Mandela, after achieving fame in South Africa as a boxing champion, became a political leader with the African National Congress.  He observed with great sorrow along with fellow countrymen of color the ruthlessness of the Sharpeville Massacre on March 21, 1960.