Albert Einstein, a Calm and Modest Man
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.”
Albert Einstein was an intellectual genius. First, he provided empirical evidence for the atomic theory. Then, Einstein solved the riddle of the photoelectric effect. Next, he proposed the Special Theory of Relativity. If that wasn’t special enough, he also presented the General Theory of Relativity. Then, Einstein collaborated with Bose to predict the existence of Bose-Einstein Condensate. The list goes on and on. This is the same Albert Einstein who termed Einstein’s Theory of Happiness. He affirms, “A calm and modest life brings more happiness than the pursuit of success combined with constant restlessness.”
Shockingly, such a genius, who was one of the most respected individuals in human history, would not just affirm “a calm and modest life” but live those words. Even as an honored professor at Princeton University, Einstein expected much less pay and benefits than other, less notable professors. Albert Einstein was self-aware and self-assured enough to live his life, not needing to show off his success or remain restless for the next self-affirming accolade.
“A calm and modest life” will look different to each of us. It requires each of us to begin by contemplating to what degree we are stressed. Then, we can take the next step and honestly ask why we need affirmation from others by showing off our success. The idea of no longer striving for success seems almost unholy. Yet, just because your primary motivation is not success does not mean one cannot be successful. Instead, it means you have deeper values than just being outwardly impressive.
Today, prayerfully ask God what values are worthy of our attention. The values we choose can be shallow, like flaunting our relative success, or they can be more meaningful by making a difference in the lives of others. God wants us to remain calm and modest, so we can be approachable. When we come across as “successful,” we become less approachable. Being less approachable can lead to being lonely and alienated from others. Getting off the road to success takes time. It means reducing debt and living with less. As we do, we can focus on enjoying the life God has given us and making a difference in the lives of others which honors God and makes our life more enjoyable.
