Pretoria – Former president Nelson Mandela taught South Africans how to become better people through acts of kindness, a citizen said in his get-well message to the ill statesman on Sunday.

“You have given us hope to transform ourselves into extraordinary individuals,” said Elmon Mokoatedi in a letter, which was posted on a growing wall of messages outside the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria.

“You have taught the world the greatest gift… that it doesn’t matter what colour I am.”

Mokoatedi said the 94-year-old’s teachings were a blessing to all South Africans and the world. He promised to honour Mandela by being a good person and helping others.

“Tata, you are our hero and we will honour your legacy by living a proud [life] of our own,” his letter said.

“We honour the sacrifice you have made for us. Every day we will do our best to make our lives worthy of your sacrifice.”

Mokoatedi’s note and other messages were surrounded by colourful balloons, flower baskets, and South African flags.

Sunday marked Mandela’s 37th day in hospital. He was admitted on June 8 with a recurring lung infection.

The Presidency said last week that he remained in a critical but stable condition.

People continued to visit the Celliers Street wall on Sunday, and posed for pictures in front of it.

Organisations also added their words of support.

One get well poster was from the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court, another from the University of the Free State, and one from the Pretoria News team.

White media marquees lined the street, and journalists took shelter underneath it while keeping a close watch.

Police continued to monitor the hospital entrance.

SAPA