"لا عظمة حيث لا توجد البساطة والخير والحقيقة"

Greatness might seem like a lofty concept reserved for the annals of history or the minds of philosophers, but if you look closely, it’s more grounded than you might think. The essence of greatness, at its core, is tied to simplicity, goodness, and truth. These three pillars aren’t just abstract ideals but practical virtues we can all embrace.

Let’s rewind a bit. This idea was famously articulated by Leo Tolstoy, a renowned Russian author known for his deep moral and philosophical musings. Tolstoy was a man of contrasts – a count who advocated for simplicity, a writer who sought truth in every word. He lived in a time of great social upheaval and believed that true greatness was not in grand gestures or complex ideologies but in the straightforward, the good, and the honest.

Imagine a community leader. This person isn't someone who seeks the spotlight or revels in their power. Instead, they focus on the basics – meeting the needs of the people, being transparent about their actions, and always acting with integrity. Take, for example, the story of José Mujica, the former President of Uruguay. Rather than indulging in the luxuries often associated with political power, Mujica lived on a modest farm, drove an old Volkswagen Beetle, and donated most of his salary to charity. His greatness wasn’t in his office but in his simplicity, his good deeds, and his truthfulness.

So, how do we apply this in our own lives? Start small. Simplify your life by focusing on what truly matters – relationships, personal growth, and contributing to your community. Practice goodness through acts of kindness, no matter how minor they may seem. And always strive for truth, both in your words and in your actions.

Think about a friend who always seems to have it together. They're not necessarily the most successful in the conventional sense, but there’s something about them that draws people in. They don’t overcomplicate things. They're kind, they listen, and they’re honest – even when the truth is uncomfortable. Their life isn’t a series of grand gestures but a collection of simple, good, and truthful moments.

Take Mary, for instance. Mary runs a small bakery in a tight-knit neighborhood. She’s not interested in expanding into a big franchise. Instead, she focuses on making each loaf of bread with care. She knows her customers by name, often slipping an extra cookie into a kid’s bag or offering a warm cup of coffee to an elderly patron. Mary’s bills are sometimes paid late, and the bakery’s paint might be peeling, but there’s a goodness and simplicity in her work that resonates deeply with everyone who walks through her doors.

Now, think about your own life. Are there ways you can strip back the unnecessary complexities? Can you be kinder, more patient, more honest? Greatness doesn’t have to be this enormous, unattainable goal. It’s in the small, everyday actions imbued with simplicity, goodness, and truth.

So, there it is. Tolstoy’s wisdom isn’t some far-off ideal. It’s right here, in the choices we make every single day. Embrace it, and you might find that greatness is closer than you think.