Samuel Johnson: 'To love one that is great, is almost to be great one's self.'

To love one that is great, is almost to be great one's self.

The quote by Samuel Johnson, "To love one that is great, is almost to be great one's self," encapsulates the profound impact that love can have on our own sense of greatness. In essence, when we admire and hold reverence for individuals who possess exceptional qualities or achievements, we become inspired to strive for greatness ourselves. This quote highlights the transformative power of love and suggests that by dedicating our hearts to someone extraordinary, we elevate our own potential and become capable of greatness.Johnson's quote resonates deeply because it acknowledges the influential role of inspiration in our lives. When we sincerely love and appreciate someone great, we instinctively look up to them and become motivated by their strengths and achievements. This admiration serves as a driving force that propels us towards personal growth and self-improvement. It awakens our own aspirations and inner desire to become the best version of ourselves.To fully grasp the significance of this quote, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept: the Socratic paradox of wisdom and knowing one's ignorance. Socrates famously proclaimed, "I know that I am intelligent because I know that I know nothing." This paradox challenges the conventional notion of greatness, suggesting that true greatness lies in recognizing our limitations and embracing our capacity to learn and improve.In connecting Johnson's quote to the Socratic paradox, we can draw an interesting parallel. Loving someone great not only inspires us to emulate their greatness but also cultivates a sense of humility within us. We recognize our own limitations and acknowledge that we have much to learn. In this realization, we open our minds to new knowledge, experiences, and perspectives, giving us the opportunity to continually grow.While Johnson's quote emphasizes the potential for greatness that arises from love and admiration, the Socratic paradox reminds us of the importance of humility and self-awareness as essential components of true greatness. It is in the intersection of these two concepts that we find a balanced approach to personal growth and excellence.Moreover, this quote urges us to carefully choose who we love and admire. It urges us to be discerning and selective, as the greatness of those we surround ourselves with profoundly impacts our own potential for greatness. By choosing to love and admire individuals who exhibit qualities such as integrity, compassion, resilience, and innovation, we absorb these virtues into our own character.In conclusion, Samuel Johnson's quote, "To love one that is great, is almost to be great one's self," portrays the transformative power of love and admiration. It inspires us to strive for greatness and links the concept of admiration with the Socratic paradox, reminding us of the importance of humility and self-awareness. By consciously choosing whom we love and hold in high regard, we set ourselves on a path of personal growth and emulate the greatness we appreciate. So, let us seek greatness not just for the sake of our own desires, but also for the positive influence it can have on the world around us.