“IT FUELS his nationalism and patriotism. It gives him a sense of fulfillment. But at the same time, he becomes indifferent to human suffering.”
This was a statement or character definition of Adolf Hitler given by a historian. Hitler was a soldier, a survivor of World War I. The war strengthened his self-belief. He was convinced that he was destined for something great. But of course, during those times, there were other people who were as much convinced that greatness was conferred to them by history.
We are not in a war. And we are not that great by some outward manifestation. Although, in our own case, we could be at war with others from time to time, and perhaps, at war with our very own selves every day.
“Greatness is a decision. Mediocrity is a decision. Not making a decision is a decision.”
I really don’t like this saying. Not because of its simplistic approach but because of its commonsensical claim.
Who defines what greatness is?
Whose standard of greatness—or definition of mediocrity—is valid enough for everyone?
Can work reputation be already considered as a great accomplishment?
My first year of work-experience at the Ramon Q. Avanceña Hall of Justice, Iloilo City, reminded me of the book of Dr. Wayne Dyer entitled Pulling Your Own Strings.
Allow me to share these three sentences from his book:
1. “I like the idea of professing courage, because the important thing to do is act, rather than to try to convince yourself of how brave you are or aren’t at any given moment.”
While assisting the judge in verifying the evidence attached to the court records, he asked me, “So, may the accused be convicted based on the evidence presented by the prosecution?”
I was scared to explain my opinion. But I tried. And I knew—and the judge knew that I knew—that my legal reasoning was not good enough.
Should we grant the demurrer to evidence?
What does the contract of agreement signed by the parties say about the issues?
Did all the private complainants testify on this matter?
With all honesty, as a Legal Researcher, I really love my work. Despite some moments of unpreparedness—or laziness—I look forward to the daily challenges.
2. “It is preposterous and self-negating to let yourself be hurt about what used to be.”
The good thing about making a mistake is that it teaches me how to improve the next time.
My colleagues in the Hall of Justice were patient enough to mentor me about the ins and outs of my work and honest enough to point out my lapses.
Along the way, errors were committed. But we all help each other. We laugh with and at each other. We argue and complain; it’s almost like an essential part of teamwork.
My work has taught me to let go of the past by accepting the past. And consider the present moment as an opportunity of becoming better than yesterday.
3. “Today is always a brand-new experience, and you can decide now to chuck out all the unpleasant things you remember about your past, and make this moment a pleasant one.”
Working in the Hall of Justice has taught me fortitude. We deal with other people’s problems every day. And we try to do our best serving them in the interest of justice.
Sometimes, employee personalities clash. Personal behaviors get in the way. And old habits affect work productivity. But we try to tame our inner demons, so to speak.
In my own little way, I do my best to be of help. I have created—and kept on improving—my own learning system.
This means I would reflect and evaluate my day-to-day and weekly performance in relation to the obligations entrusted to me.
Maybe, greatness has something to do with commitment. And everything to do with humility. (To be continued)/PN
