Essay: February 2025 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Not All of Us Can Do Great Things. But We Can Do Small Things With Great Love

If You cannot Do Great Things, Do Small Things in a Great Way — Napoleon Hill

These words by Mother Teresa encapsulate a profound philosophy of life, one that values sincerity, compassion, and service over grand achievements. In a world obsessed with success, power, and recognition, this thought reminds us that even the simplest acts, if done with love and care, can have a lasting impact. 

The idea of greatness is often associated with monumental achievements, leading nations, revolutionizing industries, or discovering scientific breakthroughs. However, not everyone has the opportunity or resources to accomplish such feats. This does not mean their contributions to society are any less valuable. The true essence of making a difference lies not just in the magnitude of one's actions but in the depth of love and sincerity with which they are carried out. Small acts of kindness, performed with love and dedication, possess the power to transform lives. 

India, with its huge population thrives on the collective power of small but meaningful actions. The essence of kindness and service is ingrained in Indian culture – the Langar service at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, where thousands of volunteers prepare and serve meals daily is not an extraordinary act by a single person but rather a culmination of small efforts infused with great love, ensuring that no one leaves the premises hungry. Similarly, individuals like Sindhutai Sapkal, known as the "Mother of Orphans," devoted her life to raising and sheltering abandoned children. Though she did not have vast resources, her unconditional love turned small gestures into life-changing experiences for thousands of children. Another example is Roti Bank, an initiative started by Dabbawalas in Mumbai, which collects excess food from restaurants and households to distribute among the needy, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry. These acts, though seemingly small, have a profound impact on individuals and communities, reinforcing the idea that compassion and service can create lasting change. 

Dashrath Manjhi, a laborer from Bihar, exemplified this philosophy when he single-handedly carved a path through a mountain over 22 years using just a hammer and chisel. His goal was not fame but to ensure that his fellow villagers had access to medical facilities and essential services. Though his task seemed small in the grand scheme, it had an immeasurable impact on the lives of his community. 

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India’s beloved "Missile Man" and former President, always emphasized the importance of small yet meaningful contributions. Though he was involved in great scientific advancements, what made him truly special was his dedication to mentoring students and inspiring youth across India. A simple word of encouragement from him, a heartfelt letter, or a moment spent with young minds changed countless lives. 

Indian women, from rural villages to urban spaces, have shown how small steps with love can lead to revolutionary changes. Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule, who fought against gender discrimination in education, did not start with grand reforms. Instead, they began by educating one girl at a time, slowly dismantling the prejudices of society. 

One of the most inspiring aspects of small acts done with great love is their ability to create a ripple effect. When one person performs a selfless act, it inspires others, leading to a chain reaction of kindness and compassion. A remarkable example of this is Sonam Wangchuk, an education reformist from Ladakh. Concerned about the high dropout rates among Ladakhi students, he started the Student Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), which introduced innovative and practical learning methods. His approach not only transformed education in Ladakh but also inspired others to adopt sustainable and hands-on learning models across India. His work also encouraged initiatives like the Ice Stupa Project, which helps communities combat water scarcity through artificial glaciers. Wangchuk’s small yet impactful efforts have motivated thousands to work towards education reform and environmental sustainability, proving that a single act of dedication can spark widespread positive change. 

Another inspiring example of how small acts done with great love create a ripple effect is Dr. Prakash Amte and Dr. Mandakini Amte. This husband-and-wife duo dedicated their lives to serving the Madia Gond tribal community in the remote forests of Maharashtra. In the 1970s, they noticed that the tribal people had no access to healthcare, education, or basic necessities. Instead of waiting for large-scale government intervention, they started treating patients under a tree, educating children, and offering help with daily needs. Their compassion led to the establishment of the Lok Biradari Prakalp, which today includes a fully functional hospital, a residential school for tribal children, and a wildlife orphanage for animals rescued from hunters. Their selfless efforts inspired many young doctors, teachers, and volunteers to dedicate their lives to rural service. Because of their initiative, thousands of tribal people now have access to medical care and education, proving that even small steps taken with great love can create lasting change for generations. 

At its core, the philosophy of doing small things with great love is about mindset and intention. It is not about the scale of the action but the sincerity behind it. Whether in personal life, workplaces, or communities, small gestures of kindness, patience, and commitment can foster meaningful relationships and positive change.When individuals cultivate this mindset, they contribute to a culture of empathy and service, reinforcing the idea that no effort is too small to make a difference. However, despite its simplicity, implementing this philosophy in daily life and governance comes with challenges. Many people believe that their small actions will not make a difference, leading to inaction. In a results-driven society, immediate measurable impact is often valued over consistent, long-term contributions. In governance, systemic inefficiencies sometimes hinder well-intentioned efforts. To integrate this philosophy into society and governance, a culture of compassion needs to be cultivated from the beginning; schools should emphasize value-based education, promoting kindness, ethics, and social responsibility. Besides, encouraging local initiatives, volunteerism, and citizen engagement can strengthen grassroots development. 

India's true strength lies not only in its technological advancements or economic growth but in its people, everyday individuals carrying out small yet meaningful acts that lead to extraordinary change. As we progress, it is essential to remember that making a difference does not require grand platforms or vast wealth.

Be Faithful in Small Things Because It is in Them That Your Strength Lies — Mother Teresa

It is Better to Live Your Own Destiny Imperfectly than to Live an Imitation of Somebody Else's Life With Perfection

May Your Choices Reflect Your Hopes, Not Your Fears. — Nelson Mandela

The Bhagavad Gita teaches us to embrace our unique purpose and individuality. Living authentically may not always be perfect, but it fosters self-awareness, resilience, and fulfillment. On the other hand, imitating someone else, even perfectly, can lead to inner emptiness and dissatisfaction. It underscores how authenticity enables individuals to navigate challenges, contribute meaningfully to society, and achieve self-realization. 

Every individual is born with unique talents, aspirations, and circumstances. The concept of swadharma, or one’s own duty, deeply rooted in Indian philosophy, suggests that each person has a role tailored to their nature and abilities. Attempting to replicate someone else’s life may seem alluring, especially if that path appears successful, but it often leads to internal discord. The pursuit of personal destiny, even with its imperfections, aligns one’s actions with their true self, fostering harmony and contentment. 

Consider the story of Arjuna from the Mahabharata. On the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Arjuna is initially overwhelmed by doubt and despair, reluctant to fight against his own relatives. Lord Krishna advises him to embrace his role as a warrior, emphasizing that abandoning his dharma would be a greater sin than fighting imperfectly. Arjuna’s eventual acceptance of his path exemplifies the triumph of individual destiny over external expectations. 

Mahatma Gandhi’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity. Born into a middle-class family in Gujarat, Gandhi’s early life was unremarkable. However, his experiences in South Africa and his deep introspection led him to embrace nonviolence (ahimsa) and truth (satya) as guiding principles. Instead of imitating Western leaders or adopting their aggressive strategies, Gandhi crafted a unique path that resonated with India’s ethos. The Salt March of 1930, a pivotal event in India’s freedom struggle, showcased Gandhi’s courage to walk his own path. The act of making salt from seawater was symbolic yet powerful, demonstrating the strength of simplicity and authenticity. Despite facing criticism and skepticism, Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to his principles inspired millions and secured India’s independence. If he had followed the example of other leaders, his influence might have been lessened. 

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life illustrates the rewards of pursuing one’s destiny despite humble beginnings. Born into a fisherman’s family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Kalam could have been deterred by his circumstances. He followed his passion for science and technology, contributing significantly to India’s defense and space programs.Kalam’s authenticity extended beyond his professional achievements. As the President of India, he lived a simple, humble life, connecting with students and citizens across the country. His refusal to imitate the lavish lifestyle often associated with political leaders earned him admiration and respect. By embracing his unique journey, Kalam left an indelible mark on India’s progress. 

Indian mythology is replete with stories emphasizing the importance of living one’s own destiny. One such tale is that of Karna from the Mahabharata. Karna, the son of the Sun God, faced numerous challenges due to his caste and upbringing. Despite his extraordinary skills and valor, Karna struggled with his identity and allegiance. Karna's life is a powerful reminder of the cost of imitating others. His gratitude to Duryodhana often clashed with his moral values. If Karna had embraced his true self and followed dharma, his story might have been less tragic. 

Living an imitation of someone else’s life, no matter how perfectly, often results in dissatisfaction. This is evident in modern society, where social media amplifies the pressure to conform. People frequently compare their lives to curated versions of others, leading to anxiety and self-doubt. 

In the Indian context, the competitive nature of education and careers often pushes individuals to follow conventional paths. For instance, many students pursue engineering or medicine, not out of passion but due to societal expectations. While some succeed, others struggle with discontent and burnout, highlighting the drawbacks of ignoring personal interests and aptitudes. 

Tata’s leadership of the Tata Group exemplifies the power of authenticity. Unlike many business magnates who prioritize profit over people, Tata focused on ethical practices and social responsibility. His decision to develop the Tata Nano, the world’s cheapest car, stemmed from a desire to provide affordable transportation for Indian families. Tata’s innovative approach and commitment to his values set him apart. By staying true to his vision, he transformed the Tata Group into a global conglomerate while maintaining its core principles. His success underscores the importance of embracing one’s unique perspective rather than imitating others. 

Mary Kom’s journey from a small village in Manipur to becoming a world champion boxer is an inspiring example of living one’s destiny. Despite societal pressures and financial challenges, Kom pursued her passion for boxing. Her perseverance and authenticity earned her numerous accolades, including an Olympic medal. Kom’s story resonates with millions, especially women aspiring to break stereotypes. Had she conformed to traditional roles or sought to emulate others, her extraordinary achievements might never have been realized.  

Understanding one’s strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations is the first step toward living authentically. Indian practices like yoga and meditation can aid in self-discovery. Embracing one’s destiny often involves overcoming obstacles. Resilience, as demonstrated by figures like Gandhi and Kalam, is crucial for success. Stepping away from societal norms requires courage. By following their unique paths, individuals like Mary Kom and Ratan Tata have shown that authenticity leads to fulfillment. Living authentically often results in meaningful contributions to society. Whether through innovation, leadership, or social work, individuals who embrace their destiny inspire others and drive progress. 

The wisdom of living one’s own destiny, even imperfectly, is a guiding principle for a fulfilling life. Indian examples from history, mythology, and contemporary times highlight the transformative power of authenticity. By embracing our unique roles and navigating challenges with resilience, we can lead lives of purpose and joy.  In a world that often glorifies perfection and conformity, the courage to be oneself is a revolutionary act. As the Bhagavad Gita teaches, true success lies not in imitating others but in walking our own path, however imperfect it may seem. By doing so, we honor our individuality, enrich our communities, and contribute to the greater good. 

Choices are the Hinges of Destiny. — Pythagoras