Everybody strives to make beauty, creativity, and distinction attributes of his work. Yet, many people do not realize that should such attributes be ascribed to any piece of work, this is no coincidence. Neither is it a one-day or a few-day effort. Rather, it is a lifestyle. Creativity and distinction require a great deal of diligent work, perseverance, and deliberate practice that they might be achieved. This marks the difference amongst people: between triviality and seriousness. Some people make their own path, while others just follow.
Once, I read an impressive story about a Japanese Emperor who ruled ages ago. It came to pass that the emperor asked a gifted painter to draw him a picture of a bird that he might put in his palace. The emperor waited for the picture, believing that he would receive it within a few days. Years elapsed! The emperor received nothing! One day, the emperor decided to go to the artist to know what had happened. Upon his arrival, the artist received him pretty happily.
The emperor asked about the picture. The artist asked the emperor to wait for fifteen more minutes in order to take the picture. The emperor consented, believing that the artist is almost done. However, to his surprise, the artist picked his paintbrush and started to sketch the picture. In a few minutes, he finished a superb picture which the emperor marveled at. However, the emperor asked him about the reasons for the delay, having finished the picture in no time.
The artist smiled and escorted the emperor to an adjacent room. Here, the emperor was taken aback to find himself in an extensive room, full of pictures: some of them had birds’ eyes, others wings, legs, and so on. When the emperor asked about these pictures, the artist replied, “Ever since you asked for the picture, I have been collecting and contemplating these pictures that I might produce a distinguished picture to you.” Here, the emperor realized that the picture was no product of a few minutes, but of years of toil and perseverance, which is why it was worthy to be called creation.
Now, search for creativity and distinction in great people’s lives. You will find they are but products of great effort, years of reading, contemplation, experimentation, and diligent work. Here lies the true depth of man’s life. Yet, before seeking the creation which others will commend, do edify yourself and be profound.
General Bishop
Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center
