GMAT Essays (AWA)

"When someone achieves greatness in any field-such as the arts, science, politics, or business-that person's achievements are more important than any of his or her personal faults

MY RESPONSE

An underlying desire to achieve greatness is what pushes many individuals to work as hard as they possibly can, harness the powers of their talent and not miss an opportunity when it is presented to them. Some people achieve greatness, however many do not and today's society places great importance on celebrities and studies their every move. While some people argue that those who achieve greatness have a responsibility to be model citizens and ideal examples for their admirers. In today's world, nobody is perfect and on an issue as subjective as a personal shortcoming there are bound to be differing views. The people who require achievers to be perfect in every sense, overlook the fact that after all, these achievers are human. It is for this reason that I agree wholeheartedly with the issue raised and will substantiate this stance over the following paragraphs.

Perfection is the ultimate goal for us all, after all who would not want to play football like David Beckam or play tennis like Steffi Graf? Or sing like Frank Sinatra or Madonna? Maybe paint like Leonardo da Vinci and write like Shakespeare? The entertainment world has long admired the talents of Charlie Chaplin and Marilyn Monroe. However all these celebrities and great achievers have had personal faults. This is not a coincidence but a stark reminder that these achievers are human after all. The people who long and demand that the achievers in society be flawless are inherently flawed themselves. It is for this reason that we should place emphasis on their actual achievements and not nitpick at every single step of the way while delving into their personal affairs.

In essence, we should look at who has benefited from their achievements. Have they changed the lives of many? Much has been made about the personal shortcomings of the entertainer Michael Jackson, however millions of people over the years derived joy from watching him perform. He broke boundaries by becoming the first African American to be featured extensively on MTV, thus paving the way for future performers. He inspired thousands to take up dancing and choreography and have successful careers. His music, dedication and passion have inspired millions as evidenced by the outburst of sympathy following his tragic death. Yet while he was alive, he was under the magnifying glass and constantly criticised. While his celebrity no doubt led to his eccentric behaviour, the world would be a poorer place without his achievements.

That is not to say that there does not exist a line beyond which certain behaviour is acceptable. If a celebrity commits murder, he or she should be held responsible and judged according to the laws of the land. But within reason I strongly agree that achievements of the great citizens of our time are more important than their personal faults.