Nelson Mandela once wrote: “I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair.”

By now you've probably heard the sad news that Nelson Mandela is in critical condition. Mandela dedicated his life to transforming South Africa -- in doing so, he changed the entire world. For many of us, his example formed the roots of our own commitment to stand up against injustice and fight for change. We now carry his vision as we continue to march down the path he paved, using his courage, strength and limitless hope as inspiration.

Join me to send our well wishes to someone whose life will uplift generations to come by adding your name on the right to our card of appreciation.

Mandela’s message -- that hope can drown out sorrow and that progress can overshadow hatred -- is the very basis of the Avaaz community. At a time when our planet is threatened by multiple crises, from climate change and the war on women to corruption and crimes against humanity, we've come together in the belief that a better world is possible -- and that if we act together, we can change it.

This is the gift Mandela has given us -- the knowledge that an unflinching devotion to hope can triumph over any tyranny no matter what size.

Let's keep our heads pointed to the sun and our feet moving forward -- for Mandela and for the world he fought to make possible.

We stand with you Madiba.

Ricken with the Avaaz team