Terrible! Yes. But Great.

They say anything can be achieved if you take it one step at a time- even greatness. Good, better, best, seems a logical progression. Start with the little things- a bit of service of here, a quality education there, and you’re on your way. But what exactly is greatness? Is there another path to get there? How about greedy, greedier, greediest? Following a similar formula of increasing intensity with attributes such as determination, aggression, and pride, would appear to produce the desired result. But by whose standards?

“After all, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named did great things. Terrible! Yes. But great” (J.K. Rowling). The issue of greatness lies in its relation with moral standards and the nature of its influence. Some would argue that the mark of a great man is the effect he has had on the world around him. If he has influenced his culture or environment in a positive manner he has truly found success. Others contend that greatness is power, regardless of how it is used. It is a matter of affecting society for better or worse. I, however, would raise the question of whether greatness must be found on a large scale at all.

It is common knowledge within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints that we are all spirit children of our Father in Heaven. As such, greatness is not something to be achieved, but rather something that we must develop. It is an intrinsic trait within each individual on earth. If there was ever an example of true greatness, it was Jesus Christ. As faithful members of the Church we are all striving to follow Christ and be more like Him. I would submit that there is truly no better method for achieving greatness in this life. Only as we learn to develop qualities such as compassion and selflessness, and forsake traits resembling aggression and pride, can we truly achieve the greatness that is inherent to each of us.