The Quest for Excellence

The most wonderful high school graduation speech I ever heard was on the subject of excellence. It was given at my brother's graduation.

The speaker talked to the young people about the virtue of excellence. That it takes dedication to pursue that goal. That one must specialize to achieve it. That one must give up much ... many minor interests ... if excellence in one area was to be gained.

Excellence takes work. Talent is a start. But excellence is borne of concentration, training and, yes, habit.

I would not be surprised if that speaker used Aristotle's words that day. I do not remember. But I was happy to chance on them again this morning.