A return to first principles in a Republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man.

 A return to first principles in a Republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. – Niccolò Machiavelli

He was offered the position of King of America, but turned it down. Simple virtue can be a very powerful statement, and set the course for the future.

What does that mean?
The more complete version of the quote is “A return to first principles in a Republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example.”

This quote is about being an example. While the quote is specifically both an urging and a warning to a Prince, I believe it applies to our lives as well. A Prince could become that example and be the bright star all others look to for guidance. These include Cincinatus of ancient Rome and George Washington in more recent times.

The Prince would also be warned that a subject, still not loyal to him, might influence great numbers of the populace to follow the lead of the simple virtues, and topple the government. Examples of these include Mohandas Gandhi and Martin Luther King.

Why is leading by example important?  
In the modern world, everything seems to move so quickly. Yet some things seem to stand still for all time. The examples of the four people mentioned in the opening section are examples of leading by example. Yes, it’s nice to say what you intend to do, but so many people forget what they said, and have trouble following through.

In leading by example, you influence people who your words might not be able to reach. People who wouldn’t stop to listen to you, but would stop to watch you do something noble. When you do it, make sure it is something either worthy of emulation, or so great that they are ashamed to do otherwise.

After George Washington turned down the opportunity to become King of America, no one else really could try. His virtue in turning it down made such an impression that none dared cross the line he had drawn and deliberately not crossed.

Where can I apply this in my life?
While it is unlikely any of us will be offered the throne of a country, we can still have an influence, and it (in extraordinarily rare situations) be seen on the world’s stage. The Tank Man of Tiananmen Square comes to mind. While the Tank Man was quite dramatic, most of us won’t be in a position to oppose a column of armor any time soon (I hope).

So what else can we do? What do you think would happen if some people saw you pick up some money that was on the sidewalk and stuff it in your pocket? What would happen if, instead, you went into the nearest shop and started asking around about the money?

I would like to point out there is a difference between people seeing you behave in this manner, and you picking up the money and announcing, loudly, to the world, that you found this money and were going to check nearby shops to see if you could find the rightful owner. That would be a bit tacky, and more than a little self serving. Not exactly the virtue the quote promotes, right?

What is going on in your life, in your little corner of the world, and how might your example help to awaken similar virtues in the lives of others? In today’s economy, frugality might be an example of a virtue that has been overlooked by many for quite some time.

Instead of making sure to have the latest and greatest of everything, consider skipping a generation of a product. I only upgrade my computers when I absolutely have to. I’m driving the same car my brother used to drive, and now have over a quarter million miles on it.

When people ask you why you’re still using an iPhone 3, you could tell them that you’re holding out for the iPhone 5, and saving some money in the intervening years. Do you really need to trade for a new car again, or can you keep it for another year or two?

That’s just one example of how a simple virtue can be used both for your own personal benefit, but also try to lead by example. What other virtues to you hold dear, and how can you personify them? Where can you display them (without making a scene of it) so that others can see and be inspired?

This isn’t necessarily a world-changing quote, unless you choose to really dig in and stand your ground (see Tank Man above). I also believe that this method can work in nearly any type of government. But if we are primarily working locally, within our circle of friends or our community, then nothing can stop us.

What virtue will you select, and how will you embody it? The world is looking for inspiration and leadership. Will you be it, will you inspire it, will you follow it, or will you ignore it? The decision is yours.

From: Twitter, @kirbycenter
confirmed at : http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/n/niccolomac166329.html
Photo by ConspiracyofHappiness