Nelson Mandela, the first black president of South Africa who was a symbol (象征) of social justice (公正), passed away on Dec. 5, 2013. His death is a great loss to the whole world, since this modern hero, who used to fight for the black people, helped the black people get the same rights as white people, and began a school to help those who had little learning even during the time when he was put into prison. He was the one who always gave priority to (优先考虑) his nation.
Nelson was a great man, but he was more than a great man. He was, is, and always will be a hero. In my view, being a hero means more than making great achievements. In fact, heroes are extraordinary (非凡的), because their hearts are filled with love for people. It is this love that makes them heroes, rather than great men.
So this is the difference between great men and heroes. What makes a hero is not only one's achievements, but also his selfless (无私的) love. With great achievements and selfless love, the person can become a true hero, just like Nelson Mandela.
短文注释：
1．pass away 去世
2．a great loss
一个巨大的损失
3．used to do 过去常常
4．fight for... 为……而奋斗
5．put... into prison
将……投入监狱
6．in my view 在我看来
7．make great achievements
取得巨大成就
8．be filled with 充满
9．not only... but also...
不但……而且……
