THE POWER OF UNITY
Tycho Brahe (1546–1601) was born in Scania, Denmark, and died in Prague. Johannes Kepler (1571–1630) was born in Württemberg, Germany, and died in Regensburg. Both were engaged in research in astronomy. But neither of them, on his own, was able to discover any great truth about the universe.
Tycho Brahe and Kepler were contemporaries. Yet one obstacle prevented both from making a major astronomical discovery: neither had mastery over every aspect of the subject. Tycho Brahe carried out many observations and recorded them carefully, building up a large collection of written data. But astronomy also depends on mathematics, and Tycho Brahe was weak in that field. He lacked the ability to connect his observations to mathematical principles.
Kepler, on the other hand, had little skill in observation. He rarely observed. Even though the telescope had already been invented in his time, he hardly made use of it. His strength was mathematics, and through calculations he developed many valuable theories about astronomy.
This is where Tycho Brahe’s generosity came into play. Despite personal differences with Kepler—even though Kepler once accused him of hypocrisy in a letter and insulted him—Tycho Brahe, despite his fiery temperament, did not get angry. Near the end of his life, he decided that Kepler would be the best heir to his scientific records. So, overlooking Kepler’s rudeness, he called him over and, before his death in 1601, handed his entire written collection to Kepler free of charge.
When Kepler received this treasure of observations, his shortcomings were covered. He applied all his mathematical skill to systematize them. The result was three principles, which became famous as Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion. Later, using these laws, Sir Isaac Newton (1643–1727) completed his discovery of gravitational force.
This is the secret of great achievements in today’s world. Everyone has limitations. No one alone can accomplish something great. A task is completed only when several people are willing to combine their abilities and efforts for one goal. Without united effort, no major event can take place.
But unity has a price. That price is learning to ignore differences and come together on what unites us. It means staying united with people despite disagreements. Differences among people are inevitable, even when they are sincere. Avoiding disagreement altogether is impossible. In such situations, the practical approach is for people to develop the courage to remain united despite differences. For the sake of collective good, they must put aside personal concerns. For something greater, they must overlook smaller matters. To serve a higher purpose, they must bury personal demands.
That is what is called high spirit and magnanimity. Without this spirit and magnanimity, it is impossible to bring any great plan to completion in this world.
