"私はいつも非常に力のある人々、独裁者などについて夢を見ていました。何百年も、場合によってはイエスのように何千年も覚えられる人々に常に感銘を受けていました。"

The heart of this quote is about the allure of power and the desire to be remembered long after we’re gone. It's about admiring those who leave a lasting mark on history, whether they're celebrated or notorious. The idea is that some people are fascinated by figures who wield immense influence—enough to be remembered through the ages.

Historically, this kind of sentiment makes sense. Throughout time, there have been countless individuals who’ve sought to make their mark, to be remembered. Dictators, for instance, often rise to power with the aim of reshaping history in their image, sometimes with devastating consequences. But it’s not just about the bad guys. Think of great leaders, visionaries, and even spiritual figures who’ve left indelible imprints on the world. They all share one thing: they’re remembered.

Let's take Napoleon Bonaparte as a real-life example. Napoleon was born a relatively obscure Corsican but rose through the ranks to become Emperor of France. His military strategies are still studied today, his legal reforms inspired the Napoleonic Code, which influenced legal systems around the world, and his name is practically synonymous with ambition and power. Love him or loathe him, Napoleon achieved that kind of lasting recognition the quote speaks about.

So how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? Well, you don’t have to aspire to be a dictator (please don’t). Instead, think about what you want your legacy to be. What do you want to be remembered for? Maybe it’s not about ruling nations but about making a significant contribution to your community, your field of work, or even your family. Start small. Make consistent efforts to excel in what you do. Stand for something meaningful. Be the kind of person whose actions speak loudly enough to echo through time.

Now, imagine you’re sitting in a coffee shop with an old friend. She tells you about her grandfather, a simple man who ran a small bakery. At first, it seems like he led an ordinary life. But then she shares how every morning he would give free bread to the local orphanage. He never sought recognition, but the kids grew up remembering the kind baker. Decades later, his name still brings smiles and warm memories. He wasn’t a powerful ruler, but his kind actions left a lasting legacy.

That’s what it’s all about, right? You don’t need to be a dictator to be remembered. You need to be impactful in your own sphere. Those who are remembered for centuries or even millennia often didn’t set out with that goal in mind; they were driven by their passions, convictions, and the desire to make a difference. So, find your passion, act with conviction, and think about the mark you want to leave on the world. Because at the end of the day, being remembered comes from being memorable in the best way possible.