After a packed day, I was watching Planet of the Ape with my 8-year-old son, Johnathan Cruz. He asked me why everyone liked Caesar, the main character and leader of the apes. Caesar, a highly intelligent chimpanzee, evolves from a curious and caring individual to a wise and strategic leader, seeking to protect his kind while grappling with the complexities of war and peace.
In that moment, I realized that greatness is something that evolves from within when we live not just for ourselves, but for those around us. Greatness is not a destination but a journey—a path filled with challenges, growth, and moments of triumph. It’s the pursuit of excellence in every aspect of life, from personal achievements to the relationships we build along the way. This journey is unique for everyone, yet it shares common threads of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to becoming the best version of oneself.
For me, this journey has been deeply intertwined with the influence and inspiration of those around me, particularly my college friends and family. Each of them has embarked on their path to greatness, excelling in various spheres of life—whether it be in their careers, family life, social circles, or personal development. Their stories erve as a testament to what can be achieved with passion, focus, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.
Personal Growth
The journey to greatness is deeply personal. It’s about striving to be better every day, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and cultivating a sense of self- awareness and purpose. My friends have shown remarkable resilience and determination in their personal lives, continuously working on self-improvement and setting an example for others to follow.
Arun Felix, a dear friend from a village, was raised by his single mother alongside his brother Rex (not me 🙂 ). Their mother worked in a government school, serving food to students, while dreaming of a better life for her sons. Today, both Felix and Rex have surpassed many in their accomplishments, proving that even on a rough path, dreamers can win in life.
Family Dedication
Greatness is also reflected in the way my friends balance their professional aspirations with their responsibilities at home. They’ve built strong, loving families, providing unwavering support to their loved ones while pursuing their ambitions. Their ability to nurture relationships and create a harmonious family life is a true reflection of their character and values. Stephen Crown, from Nagapattinam, ran a children’s orphanage in Bangalore at the age of 22 while working as a salesman selling mobile SIM cards. His story challenged me to think about what one can achieve when driven by purpose. Today, Stephen is blessed with a wonderful family, including his wife and two daughters, exemplifying how a normal person can create an exemplary family despite the odds. Both he and his wife work as family counsellors, leading by example. Stephen, a great cook, never fails to delight me with his favourite dishes whenever I visit, a daily treat his family enjoys.
Career Excellence
Among my friends, some have reached remarkable heights in their professional lives. They’ve climbed the corporate ladder, started successful ventures, or made significant contributions in their fields of expertise. Their commitment to continuous learning and innovation has set them apart as leaders and visionaries, embodying the essence of greatness in their careers. Yogan Asir Doss, a college friend from Trichy, finished his Tamil-medium higher schooling before joining college. Once, after missing a few classes, I asked to borrow Doss’s notes and was surprised to find they were in “Tanglish” (a mix of Tamil and English). Despite the challenges, Doss’s determination saw him join a multinational company, writing programming for Boeing Airlines. His unwavering commitment has always inspired me, even to this day.
Social Impact
Beyond their professional and family lives, many of my friends have made significant contributions to society. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or community involvement, they have used their influence to bring about positive change. Their dedication to social causes and their ability to rally others around important issues highlight their commitment to leaving a lasting legacy. Daniel Jacob, from a young age, harboured a deep desire to serve those in need. He began his journey during school, supporting classmates from troubled backgrounds, standing up for the oppressed, and offering help to people on the streets. Today, Daniel is the Senior Vice President of HR at EC Group Data Soft Pvt Ltd in Chennai and also serves as the Executive Director of the You Are Loved Foundation, a charitable trust dedicated to empowering communities through education, employment, and enlightenment. Daniel’s approach to service is deeply rooted in his belief in the power of family. He involves his family in his charitable efforts, convinced that when the family is engaged, the impact is far-reaching and profound. He believes that the love within a family overflows to touch the lives of others.
Conclusion
Together, these aspects—career, family, social life, and self—form the foundation of greatness. It’s a holistic approach that acknowledges the importance of balance and the interconnectivity of different areas of life. As I continue on my journey, I am inspired by the achievements of my friends, who remind me that greatness is not just about reaching the top but about the journey itself and the impact we have along the way.
