MEDIA TABOO TOPICS AND THE REALITY REALM

It's probably one of the most difficult issues to cover in the media. An 'impending' demise of a great personality. How do you reconcile the need to reflect the reality on the ground with the right amount of sensitivity, and the often taboo realm of contemplating anyone's death?

News editors know any attempt to seek a balanced coverage still runs the risk of upsetting societal expectations.

But it's generally acceptable to focus on a public figure, even in their distressing times.

The trick is to properly manage the tone and steer the coverage away from speculations and other prophet of doom tendencies.

However, as I gaze into the clear skies of Johannesburg, I hope whatever ending that eventually comes to pass, will not be the beginning of sadness, but the continuation of happiness from the enduring gift of one man's great sacrifices for humanity.