One of the most-quoted writers of inspirational maxims, William Arthur Ward, once said: "Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hate. It is the power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness."

One of the most-quoted writers of inspirational maxims, William Arthur Ward, once said: "Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hate. It is the power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness."

From an acrimonious divorce to familial camaraderie - so have the life and times of struggle icons Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Nelson Mandela come a full circle.

Evidently Winnie would not have wished for less for her 70th birthday party on Sunday night - what with her former husband and his wife, Graca Machel, not only gracing the occasion but also delivering speeches honouring her.

And yet public sentiment about her still reflects the paradox that characterises her life: those who hated her during the apartheid era still do - with a passion; but her die-hard supporters remain inspired by her stoicism in the face of adversity and persecution.