Greatness

The great are not crowned in their lifetimes. They are not cheered in the street, nor applauded and embraced by the masses.
The truly great are quietly confident, working for the cause of mankind. They have no need to strut around a stage. They do not spout empty words before adoring crowds for personal glory, nor for fame, nor for the sake of history. The great suffer. The great travel alone. The great do not seek approval from the world.
Greatness calls for nothing less. The truly great have no mass appeal in the midst of their struggles. They are shunned by the majority. The great are here before their time, paving the way. The message calls for true change, not outside but within. True change is unpopular. True change is challenging. True change demands sacrifice. True change is devoid of ego. Perseverance in the face of adversity is what brings about greatness.
Some people will recognize them. Most will not.
Where is greatness now?