Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without
comparing himself to somebody else. (Galatians 6:4)
Miguel Cervantes, Spanish novelist, playwright and poet, was the creator of
Don Quixote, the most famous figure in Spanish literature. A contemporary of
Shakespeare (though they never met), Cervantes lived in a time when Spanish
literature was marked by sloppy sentimentalism. For several years—following
a period of colorful exploits, including naval warfare, slavery, imprisonment
and work as a government bureaucrat—he wrote plays and novels of a conventional
sort according to the poor but commonly accepted standards of his day.
Then something in his spirit was energized. Cervantes decided he did not want
to be just another writer and compare himself to other, more admired authors.
This revolution in his thinking about his purpose caused him to start work
on Don Quixote. The book changed all the literary formulas of the day and placed
its author in the ranks of the top dozen writers of all time.
Conformity is the easiest thing in the world. It requires nothing but the
power to imitate. It is usually safe. Originality, on the other hand, is a
difficult and dangerous thing. It guarantees its pursuer questions, doubt and
criticism. But it also promises the potential that one will be able to affirm
(“take pride in”) the way he or she is living. The test of one’s
actions will produce satisfaction.
As with Cervantes in Spain, so it was a generation later with Rembrandt in
Holland. He starved and suffered for years while battling the artistic standards
of his time. But he persevered, making his own goals the mark by which he measured
success. And today no name stands higher in the world of painting; “Rembrandt” is
virtually synonymous with “masterpiece.”
They say “when in Rome do as the Romans do.” But there is a desperate
need in Rome for those who will give leadership to the Romans. Life’s
important prizes and history’s valued places are reserved for those who
are able to blaze new trails, demonstrate faith and find the courage not to
compare themselves to others. The power of creativity is one mark—among
others—of the image of God within us. Do not surrender it to the mere
standards of the day.
When in Rome do as you know in your heart is good, true and right—even
if it is new.
***************************************
Monday Moments are written by Dr. Michael A. Halleen. If you receive this
publication as a forwarded message from a friend and wish to be added to the
weekly mail list, please contact Mike at mhalleen@att.net. Requests to be removed
may be sent to the same address.
