I met him once, at IIM K, in a crowd of people. He was the President, I, a mere mortal. He endured to the students, I wasn't impressed. Over the years, I kept a tab on him. And I grew to like him.
And this is what I learnt from him, in random order:
- Greatness is sometimes measured by simplicity, not by wealth.
- Keep your religion to yourself, don't wear it on your sleeve.
- The future of any nation lies in the youth. Mould them for works that will bring glory to the nation; not for politiking.
- Believe in yourself. A boatman's son can become a scientist & a President of a Nation because he believed in himself.
- Dare to dream but don't forget to wake up and make that dream happen.
- Don't worry about the critics. They don't feed you or clothe you. And you can't please everyone.
- Acknowledge old friends and colleagues who helped you and stood by you. Find time to spend with them.
- A busy man finds time for everything.
- There is no such thing as retirement when you can keep yourself occupied doing what you do best.
- Leave footprints in the sands of time. Don't leave this earth without disturbing the sands of time.
- Revel in working hard for yourself, your family, your friends and your country.
- Be a unifying force. Don't be divisive. After all, your neighbour has as much right to be on the face of this earth as you have.
Never will be there be another A P J Abdul Kalam. Wherever you are Dr. Kalam, rest in peace.
A grateful nation bids you goodbye.
Adios Amigo!
(First published on my FaceBook page on 28th July 2015)
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