The Power of Magnanimity

The word of the day is Magnanimity which is “ the conquest of greatness. It is not content to initiate; it achieves. It is not content to aspire to greatness, but to attain it. It is like jet fuel: it is the propulsive virtue par excellence. Magnanimity is the virtue of action; there is more energy in it than in mere audacity. The magnanimous person achieves self-fulfillment in and through action. He gives himself over to it with passion and enthusiasm.”

I heard about it in a book that I finished yesterday, Created for Greatness, the Power of Magnanimty, by Alexandre Havard. See link: https://www.virtuousleadership.com/shop. I would define Magnanimity as the constant pursue of excellence. It’s important to note how he defines the requisites of virtue and vocation:

“Every act of virtue requires

1) prudence, which allows us to discern the good in every situation;

2) justice, which impels us to achieve it;

3) courage, which gives us strength, endurance, and perseverance in achieving it; and

4) self-control, which keeps the passions from leading us to the opposite of the good.”

“Vocation is a call to being, whereas mission is a call to doing. Vocation is a call to be a certain way; mission is a call to do a certain thing. Vocation is always a divine call, whereas a mission is often the result of human considerations. Our vocation is the framework in which we discover and carry out our mission, which constitutes our specific contribution to humanity. Without a vocation, leadership is devoid of purpose; without a mission, it is devoid of substance.”

Personally I also like he mentions Faith as a way towards excellence:

“Man discovers who he is and the ultimate meaning of his life through faith. Happiness without God is a contraction in terms.”

Very good points in this book for anyone interested in making the pursue of excellence a daily habit. Add to your list.

Make It Happen!