on chasing reverence, not fame

Reverence over fame is like the classic case of quality over quantity. One viral meme and boom — you have a hundred followers. But the result of a well-researched book written over a span of two years, the culmination of one’s academic life — when a work like that enlightens minds and tops best-selling charts, that’s not a “famous” author. He is, what we call, revered in literary circles. And to hold reverence among a handful of serious readers rather than tasteless crowds will forever hold deeper worth.

Every revered person — pianist, lawyer, surgeon, artist, or author — has one thing in common: that reverence was a consequence, never a goal. Excellence and mastery of their craft were the guiding north stars of their journey.

And reverence isn’t loud or flashy. It speaks in intimidated gazes, lowered heads, respectful nods, and a quiet awe in the chest. It shows in attitudes: the resistance to sounding foolish and the urge to impress. We’ve all had that one person in our field whom we look up to. A small validation from them can swell our chests with pride, while a harsh critique can make us reassess our worth.

Fame, on the other hand is all about numbers and senses. Its showy, shallow and superficial. You want to be famous in your neighbourhood? Own that latest big car. “Want to be the next million-follower influencer ? Curate your feed with snaps of a luxurious wardrobe that everyone dreams of.” You play with people's desires and they worship you. They never know 'you' for who you are but for what you have. They only fall for the illusions you create. The beauty fades, the goods expire and the trends change. Oh and the minute you lose it you're a nobody.

But reverence? That bone deep respect that doesn't rest on your transferable belongings but on your acumen and art. Its surely slow to gain but it lasts. And it leaves a legacy that can go beyond generations.

What’s worth chasing reverence is the possibility to be just as famous as revered. Mozart, Messi, and Mohammed Ali — these aren’t just well-known figures. These are titans of their craft. Academies copy them, studios study their technique, and students emulate their stance. They are revered eternally.

And i'll be honest with you. I was too once trapped in the illusions of money and fame that made heads turn. The tides of time and the temperament of beings have revealed these realities to me that I now present to you.