indeed. Mandela once said, it always seems impossible until it is done. And even though we longected this, it's still so difficult for many to take in right now. It is. We learned president obama and the first lady will travel to south africa in the coming weeks. Abc's alex marquardt is on the ground in south africa for us tonight. Alex, describe the scene there. Reporter: Good evening. When you look at the crowd of mourners, you understand why this country is called the rainbow nation. All across the board of south african society there is a profound loss. You can hear behind me, there is also celebration, a phenomenon that has broken out across the entire country. They say that they are embodying the spirit of mandela, who loved life. Who was fun. Who was funny. And they feel that by celebrating his life, they are embodying mandela's spirit. Alex, thank you very much.