A new definition of greatness
By Charles Christian
A professor was asked by a student for insight on how to become great.
“That’s a tricky question,” the professor said. “There are just so many definitions of greatness.”
The student answered, “How would you define greatness, and where can I start on that path?”
The professor thought for a moment as students were beginning to file into the classroom. He pointed at the a corner of the room just inside the doorway.
“What’s that man’s name?” the professor asked his student.
“The janitor?” she asked. “I’m not sure what his name is, but I see him here three times a week when I am coming into this class.”
“Maybe greatness starts with getting to know people whom you walk past every day and maybe take for granted,” the professor said. “This doesn’t mean you have to dive deeply into the lives of everyone you see. But, it can mean that you become more aware of those around you who may get overlooked.”
The student took the lesson seriously. Others in the classroom who overheard the professor’s conversation with the student took the lesson seriously, as well.
Pretty soon, administrative assistants, janitors, maintenance people and cafeteria workers all over campus found themselves in occasional conversations with curious students. Nearly all were at least greeted some time during the day — often several times a day — by students going to and from classrooms.
When the president of the university began seeing this, she thanked the professor for helping change the students’ perspectives, while also boosting the morale of the university.
“It’s all about learning a new definition of greatness,” the professor said.
In the New Testament, Jesus tells his initial followers, “The one who is greatest among you will be the servant of all. Whoever exalts themselves will be humbled, but whoever humbles themselves will be exalted” (Matthew 23:11-12).
Faith brings a new definition of greatness. It is a definition based not in power or in possessions, but in love and care for others.
May we all grow in this pursuit of greatness.
