Nelson Mandela celebrated his 93rd birthday today, and the outpouring of love from his fellow South Africans proved that the leader is as influential as ever. Millions of school children simultaneously sang a special birthday song to Mandela, and the Mandela Foundation urged citizens to do 67 minutes of volunteer work to represent the 67 years that Mandela devoted to South Africa's struggle against Apartheid.
"The best way we can thank Nelson Mandela for his work is by taking action for others and inspiring change," said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who supports the call to action.
President Obama said Mandela's life and legacy exemplified "wisdom, strength and grace".
Though he will surely be celebrating in his own way, Mandela will not be likely to attend any parties for his birthday today. He has been receiving 24/7 medical care at home following his hospitalization for acute respiratory infection in January.
Cake or no cake, we wish Nelson Mandela a joyous birthday!

(Photo: REUTERS/Themba Hadebe/Pool/Landov)