Inspired by Greatness (part I): I’m Different
“I’m different, yeah I’m different!” These words from the irrepressible hook of the otherwise forgettable 2 Chainz song, resonate on a loop in my head as I consider this post…
“I’m different, yeah I’m different!”
Maybe it’s because these words apply to me. Maybe I’m just a different kind of guy. And maybe it’s time for me to admit it.
I’ve always felt just a little out of place in many situations. A little too nerdish as a kid… Never the right balance of work and play as a student… And not as singularly focused professionally as many are.
But I’ve decided that it’s all OK. “I’m different, yeah I’m different!”
Now that young adulthood is in my rear view mirror, I’m realizing (with my wife’s help) that the changes that occur in my life’s routine are more in keeping with the pattern than an anomaly. She would say that I’m no longer creating the pattern, I’m living it. This is the pattern. This is my life (so I’d better get used to it.)
So, as a part of that, I guess it’s time that I recognize what makes me different. What motivates me? What inspires me? What makes me pay attention? What matters to me?
I’m a capitalist, but I’m not motivated by money. Rather, I view it as a tool or a measure. I like nice things, but I’m not driven to accumulate material possessions. I appreciate being recognized for my contribution, but I know that the spotlight can highlight my flaws too.
I’m rarely inspired by an athlete running, jumping or throwing. Similarly, I don’t get excited about the Grammy’s, Emmy’s, SAG’s or Oscars. Each represent meaningful accomplishments, I’m sure, but I prefer the CNN Heroes Awards as a celebration of those who are among the best of us.
I’m inspired by excellence in service. By people who do hard and important things because they need to be done – maybe even before they realize that they are doing anything significant. I’m inspired by people who are well read and articulate, and who are willing to share and teach. I’m inspired by people who give of themselves and are determined to make a difference.
I guess that I’m inspired by good works sincerely and excellently done, and by people who motivate us to do the same. I’m inspired by people who have overcome and kept on going, but who didn’t forget to reach back. These are my definitions of greatness. These days, to be inspired by this nebulous and subjective concept may make me different, but I’m OK with that.
Benjamin Elijah Mays described the quest for greatness in this way:
“It must be borne in mind that the tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. It isn’t a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream. It is not a disaster to be unable to capture your ideal, but it is a disaster to have no ideal to capture. It is not a disgrace not to reach the stars, but it is a disgrace to have no stars to reach for. Not failure, but low aim is sin.”
#DBTE #XEQTE
