Great men never aspire to be great. They are great because of their character. They are men of high moral character. Great men leave a legacy unplanned, and transcending the bonds of time. I do have several examples. First in modern history would be George Washington, and all the signers of the Declaration of Independence. While it is true that those who did sign, and also those who did act on the Deliration of Independence were committing High Treason against the Crown, they were revolutionary in incredible and innumerable ways.
The Signers had the revolutionary idea of freedom. They believed that mankind, when ruled by morals and rules, rather than a king, would aspire to great heights. They believed so firmly, in the document they signed, that they, "pledge to each other our, Lives our Fortunes and our sacred Honor." Indeed their ideas and actions have transcended the test of time.
Later, The United States of America was blessed once again that Abraham Lincoln lead the nation through the most difficult time of the 19th century. This uncommon courage, and leadership brought a nation ravaged with Civil war to peace, and then prosperity.
In our day, Ronald Regan, the most beloved President of our time, is revered in reverence. His endless optimism and cheerful twinkling of his eyes, won the nations heart. The Nation believed in Ronald Regan because Regan believed in them. His political opponents were befuddled to discover a weakness to attack his ideas and ideology. They were hard pressed to figure a way to prevent his agenda. His agenda was simple, defeat communism, lower taxes, and believe in the American people. In retrospect, he succeeded in all counts.
Ronald Regan is remembered and honored for who he is. We miss him dearly.
Recent event must include the passing of Pope John Paul II. To put it simply, his faith never wavered. He never wavered in the difference between good and evil. He never deviated to the path of immorality. His legacy is not "mixed", but his path is clear. He is a man of high moral character, and his word is his bond. It's a shame that so many do not understand men of character.

KH