Archive - Dec 8, 2013

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"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."

"I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles."

"Man's goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished."

- Nelson Mandela

(CNN) -- Nelson Mandela spent almost three decades in jail, but he wasn't alone -- he had two Indian goddesses and a 17th century playwright for company.

Locked in solitary confinement on Robben Island, newspapers were banned and letters from loved ones a rare treat. Where did he find the inspiration to continue his long struggle for freedom?

A tattered book covered in luminous Hindu deities might have seemed like a strange choice for the South African leader. But the beatifically smiling women on the cover knew something the prison wardens didn't. Inside was the "Complete Works of Shakespeare," and the historic text became a source of strength for Mandela and his fellow inmates during their darkest days.  read more »