The article contrasts tyrants and saints, emphasizing that the difference lies not in the power they wield but in how they apply it. Tyrants, exemplified by Hitler, seek to reshape the world to fulfill an inner void, applying power externally to control and dominate. Conversely, saints like Gandhi focus on self-mastery and internal healing, leading to more profound change in the world. The narrative underlines that true fulfillment comes from addressing internal struggles, while the relentless pursuit of external control leads to suffering and isolation.
What makes someone a tyrant, and what makes another a saint? It's not power itself that determines the outcome. It's how-and more importantly, where-that power is applied.
The tyrant seeks to bend the world to their will. They apply power externally to remake the environment, people, or culture around them, often in the belief that if they can just change enough out there, they will finally feel whole inside.
Hitler is a chilling case study in the external application of power. He believed he could construct an ideal world by reshaping it to his rigid, destructive vision.
Gandhi struggled with temptation, shame, and self-doubt. He focused his power inward, working on himself, healing his wounds, and mastering his habits.
Collection
[
|
...
]