Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 6:47 PM
It is said that Beethoven used to count the exact number of beans when making his coffee; 60, to be exact. Beethoven was a man who, after losing his hearing, still managed to compose one of the most beautiful symphonies of all times: the 9th. A very complex piece of music, with its “Ode to Joy” the topping on the cake, and also the most memorable part of the 9th. Not only did he compose the 9th Symphony while being totally hearing impaired, but he also conducted the orchestra when it premiered in Vienna in 1824. He conducted his music by following the rhythm of the orchestra with his feet through the vibrations on the floor.
I believe that the way he prepared his cup of coffee is indicative of his dedication to his craft. The volume of symphonies and concertos, especially his 5 piano concertos, is unbelievable, and absolutely some of the most beautiful music ever composed. He was going deaf, and was already deaf when he composed his masterpiece. That is excellence. That coffee thing, though, I can’t get over that.
What is it that makes some people do extraordinary things, constantly striving to outdo themselves, never resting on their laurels? And I am not referring to geniuses like Beethoven, but ordinary people who don’t settle for less. People who don’t give up, despite the odds against them; people who make sure that they give their all, their best, to achieve excellence. Some sacrifice love, their families, even their health to reach their personal Everest. Imagine the satisfaction derived from such sacrifice.
When I think about excellence, I think about the teachers who give all of themselves to their students. The policeman or firefighter or plumber, the carpenter, the doctor or nurse who puts the patient first, second, and third. No matter the profession, high or low, there are those who dedicate themselves to being the best, who are willing to go the extra mile to achieve their goal. Excellence is being the best of the best of what is inside ourselves, in my opinion.
Ordinary people are usually the ones who accomplish extraordinary goals. I believe that excellence, or the concept of excellence, should be taught, beginning in 1st grade, and throughout the rest of one’s lifetime. But then again, I don’t think it can be taught; it is innate, something that is deep within us, hidden, until it decides to manifest itself.
Most of us don’t have to grind our coffee beans anymore. Like everything else nowadays, it comes all packaged and ground and ready to brew. Still can’t believe he counted every single bean. Wat a ting!
Glen