Shooting from the lip

they are in a good job or in college.” We have to address the root causes. We know, too, we need to walk handin-hand with the police: “Understand, our police officers put their lives on the line for us every single day.”

We are reminded of our own role in our safety, like building our neighbourhood watches.

“We cannot continue to rely only on our (armed services) in order to achieve the national security objectives…

“We have to have a civilian national security force that is just as powerful, just as strong, just as well funded.”

We need to ensure the longevity of our universities because: “Our higher education system is one of the things that makes (us) exceptional.”

We are urged to be honest about our political past: “What ails the (black) community does not just exist in the minds of black people.

“The legacy of discrimination – and current incidents of discrimination – are real and must be addressed.”

We should also take individual responsibility: “The future rewards those who press on.

“I do not have time to feel sorry for myself. “I do not have time to complain. “I am going to press on.” Liberty is a two-way street. “A freedom which only asks what is in it for me, a freedom without a commitment to others, a freedom without love or charity or duty or patriotism, is unworthy of our founding ideals, and those who died in their defence.”

But hope for the future of our land also starts at the very top.

“If the people cannot trust their government to do the job for which it exists – to protect them and to promote their common welfare – all else is lost.”

Words to remember, as we navigate South Africa’s future. And whose words were they? Nelson Mandela? Another great home-grown visionary? No. Barack Obama, speaking about the US.

We are reminded: Our problems are not unique.

We are not alone.