Sunday, October 11, 2009

GREAT EMPEROR’S GREATNESS


GREAT EMPEROR’S GREATNESS


Alexander the Great was leading his army across continents. Wherever he marched, victory greeted him. Thrones trembled at his approach. Kings and princes bowed down before his power and military might.

One dark, wintry night Alexander’s army reached a remote village after a long march. It was snowing. The cold seemed to freeze the very marrow of their bones.

Alighting from his horse, the Emperor ordered his servants to light a fire forthwith. As his tent was being put up, a reclining seat was placed before the fire so that he could warm himself in comfort.

As he held out of his benumbed fingers to catch the warmth of the roaring fire, Alexander’s eyes fell on an old soldier, standing at a distance. He was shivering in the bitter cold, his teeth chattered, and his arms and legs seemed to tremble.

Quietly Alexander left the fireside and walked up to the old soldier. Gently but firmly, he led the soldier to his chair. “Sit down and warm yourself, my comrade-in-arms,” he said.

Of such stuff are great Emperors made.




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