Power vs. Freedom. Which one would you choose?

What happens when absolute power meets complete freedom?

Alexander the Great was the most powerful man in the world. He had conquered nations, commanded armies, and bent history to his will.

Alexander heard a lot of Diogenes.

Diogenes owned nothing. He lived in a barrel on the outskirts of Athens—an eccentric philosopher, indifferent to status, wealth, and comfort.

Curious, Alexander went to meet him.

The young king arrived with his soldiers, stood before the philosopher, and offered to grant him any wish.

“Ask of me what thou wilt, and thou shalt have it.”

Diogenes was sunbathing.

He looked up and said,

“Move aside. You are blocking my sunlight.”

Alexander, stunned, later told his companions:

“If I were not Alexander, I would wish to be Diogenes.”

The story endured because it reveals a quiet truth.

Alexander had everything and wanted more.
Diogenes had nothing and wanted nothing more.

Power seeks recognition.
Freedom requires none.

The power you acquire and the wealth that you own will end up owning you.

Take it easy until next time.

Blogging is something I enjoy, and I share my thoughts on my blog most weekends. Explore all my blogs at https://lnkd.in/ejq7CWaQ

Views are my own.

Blogging is something I enjoy, and I share my thoughts on my blog most weekends.

Read all my “Notes to Self” at view all blogs.