"Great dreams of great dreamers are always transcended"
APJ Abdul Kalam, better known as the missile man of india, made the whole india shed tears by his sudden demise. From playing an organisational, technical, and political role in India's Pokhran-II nuclear tests to living the civilian life of education, writing and public service, he left an indomitable mark in the welfare of science and technology and in the lives of people.
Being a gallant leader and an idol for today's generation, he taught us umpteen things to exercise in our life.
No excuses. Dr. Kalam was born in Rameshwaram to a fisherman. As a child he worked as a newspaper delivery boy. Instead of giving excuses, he worked hard to over come the hurdles.
Not every dream is meant to be realized. He studied Physics for 4 years and then shifted to Aeronautical engineering. He did regret 4 years studying Physics. Later, he couldn't become a pilot because he came in 9th position and only 8 positions were available. Nevertheless, he didn't get dishearten. As he said later: "Since I couldn't fly airplanes, I started building them".
Dream bigger. He started his career building helicopters at DRDO. He was not satisfied with just that. With sheer hardwork and dedication, he was recommended for ISRO by Vikram Sarabhai where he started working in Rockets.
Work Hard. Like really hard. He was first to come and last to leave office. He never got married. Such was his dedication for his work.
Become a hope for the nation. In the age when only few developed countries had the nuclear power, Dr Kalam ensured that India will be one amongst them. Under his leadership India conducted the first nuclear test at Pokhran. The civilized world was literally swept by the blast!
Take the blame but give away the fame. A famous story goes by that when the tests for a lauch failed, Dr. Kalam would face the media but when the tests were successful, he would send his scientists to do the press release. Such was his humbleness.
Avoid bureaucracy. Dr. Kalam was one of the cleanest leaders India has ever seen. His career as a scientist, as an adviser and as President are without any stains of corruption or scams.
Be an ideal leader. He was called as the People's president. He was loved by one and all. His presidency rule saw some of the toughest decisions being taken. He always tried to do what's best for the nation as a whole.
Nurture the young. Dr. Kalam spent his entire life talking to the youth of the nations. He was always ready to speak with children, college students and youth alike. He always tried to inspire and tried to explain the value of hardwork and sincerity.
Do what you love. Dr. Kalam loved interacting with the youth. However, Dr. Kalam died doing what he loved the most. He died while delivering a speech at IIM Shilong. He is like a soldier who attained veergati (Martyrdom) in the battle field. Very few people die doing what they love.
So Let his work inspire you, let his dedication ignite you, for his is a life filled with welfare for the nation.
