Greatness Everywhere

Art Exhibits, Operas, Concertos, Theaters, Planetariums are all considered “great works.” To graduate from the honor’s program at BYU, students are asked to participate in a vast range of great works projects; but what classifies something great? While the definition might be unclear, clearly greatness can be found in a variety of places.
This semester, I’ve attended a dance performance, heard the choir showcase, viewed an international film, and am currently reading Life of Pi, all defined as great works. The connection I draw between all of them is the passion which with they pursue their own fields. The dancer spends hours polishing a routines while a writer takes many months proofreading and perfecting his work. When a person puts time and effort into something they love, it touches the lives of those around them.
Greatness can also be found outside the professional world. When I went home last weekend, my younger brother Isaac gave me his latest art project. It was by no means a Picaso, but to me it was amazing. Isaac put all the hard work and time a nine year old could and it was one of his best drawings so far. It meant a lot to me that primary age brother would spend his time making something that meant so much to him for me.
We’ve studied people who have done great things throughout the history of the world: Gutenburg’s printing press, Jesus Christ’s ministry, George Washington’s leadership, and the list could keep going on. However, greatness can be found anytime a person uses their time and talents to bless the lives of those around them. So yes, the BYU ballroom team is great, and the little girl who danced for her grandma because it made the old woman smile is great. We all have the potential for greatness; we just need to open up and decide how to use it.