Many great leaders have graced and conquered the world with their courage and power. I, however, would like, in this letter, to single out a man whom I truly admire and has earned the reverence of many others, both when he was living and dead. This is a thank you letter to Roman general and statesman Julius Caesar.
Dear Julius Caesar,
You are certainly one of the most famous leaders in all of history. The fact that you played such a critical role in the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire speaks volumes of how effective your leadership was over Rome during those days. Even today, the idea that rulers of other countries still bear the title “Caesar” shows how your reputation and name has achieved an unprecedented amount of respect.
The reality that even up until today so many individuals all across the world admire your ideals and reforms is what I admire the most. I believe that a person can only be truly noteworthy, a leader only truly effective if many hold that individual in high esteem, and respect and follow him. That is the definition of an effective leader–something you certainly were. With this in mind, you have been a great source of inspiration for me. I may have never had political aspirations like you but in many other situations that required me to step up and take the lead, I drew insight from you. For that, this thank you letter is for you.
I recall how even Shakespeare referred to you as “the foremost man of all this world” and to this sentiment of his I really can’t help but agree. Some criticize your choice of creating a dictatorship and yet the successes that your nation achieved under your guidance were undeniable. Furthermore, your approach to life, wherein you were temperate in all things, complete, evenly balanced, and self-controlled are traits, I believe, are admirable and should be emulated.
And let me just add that the Latin language has always fascinated me. I believe that it was integral in the development and evolution of English and proof of this is seen in the many terms and phrases of the English language that has its origins in Latin. This is actually something I’ve felt strongly enough for to write an article about. And in relation to you, what makes me even more impressed is that in your time you stood in the first rank of most orators. Certainly an inspiring feat for you to have done in such a captivating language!
I hope this thank you letter conveys my gratitude enough, Caesar, for all this.
Most sincerely,
Raffy Chan