Meaning of life quote from Nelson Mandela (Cape Town)

"Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies."

Nelson Mandela, age 0 (1918 - 2013)

Cape Town, South Africa

April 13, 2026

This perspective on the meaning of life comes from Nelson Mandela, based in Cape Town, South Africa. As a renowned thinker (1918 - 2013), their words continue to inspire people around the world.

Related Perspectives

"Suffering is inevitable, but it's also our greatest teacher. Through pain, we develop compassion, resilience, and depth. It sculpts us into who we're meant to be."

— James, 48, Cape Town, South Africa

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

— Nelson Mandela, 0, Cape Town, South Africa

"for me its trying not to take it all too seriously"

— Nomsa, 18, Cape Town, South Africa

"The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet."

— Aristotle, 0, Athens, Greece

Explore More

Quotes from South Africa

Discover more perspectives from this region

Perspectives from people in their Under 20

See how age shapes life's meaning

All Quotes

Browse the full collection of perspectives

View World Map

See all quotes on the interactive globe