( CNN ) -- Today , as we mourn the loss of one of history 's most transformational leaders , let us also pay tribute to his life and legacy . Let us dedicate ourselves to remembering his lessons and continue his efforts to spread democracy , freedom and equality across the globe . Nelson Mandela was a civil rights activist , teacher , freedom fighter , `` Father of the Nation , '' political prisoner , father , husband and an inspiration to the entire global community . He fought for democracy , not only in his own home of South Africa , but across the world . He explained : `` To be free is not merely to cast off one 's chains , but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others . '' Years after organizing against apartheid in front of the South African Embassy in Washington , I first had the honor of meeting Mr. Mandela in 1993 when I escorted him to President Clinton 's Inaugural event at the D.C. Armory . A year later , I went to South Africa to help train election workers and had the privilege of meeting him again . A man of great dignity and curiosity , he was anxious to know how we went about organizing political campaigns and getting people involved in politics . He was eager to hear stories from many of us who had worked in the segregated Deep South . Like so many others fighting for progress , I have drawn inspiration from Nelson Mandela . He showed us that it was possible to create lasting change , peace and stability even in the most formidable circumstances . He was an advocate for the downtrodden and believed that , `` Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world . '' A great warrior has died . A man who dedicated his life to liberating his country from apartheid and transform his nation and continent . Nelson Mandela was the President of a New South Africa : An optimist who believed he could help lead the country away from its violent past and to bring people from all walks of life together . President Barack Obama and the first lady said it best , `` Nelson Mandela 's personal story is one of unbreakable will , unwavering integrity and abiding humility . '' He has , `` changed the arc of history , transforming his country , continent and the world . '' Madiba , today and forever , we will remember you â€ ” and your legacy will live on . The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Donna Brazile .
Donna writes : He was an activist , teacher , freedom fighter , and inspiration . He argued that to be free was to live in a society that respected others ' rights . He 's legacy will inspire us for years to come , she writes .