Maximus

When Maximus decided not to support the new emperor because the old emperor wanted the power back in the hands of the people, he had to know the new emperor would have him and his family killed. It didn't appear that Maximus thought that should be a factor in his decision.

Did he think he could save his family, or was he mistaken in thinking the Romans would support the old emperor's wishes? It made me pause and think would I do something for the good of the country knowing my family would be killed? What would you do?

It seemed after his family was dead his attention was focused on revenge for his family. Was his attention also focused on helping the country too, or did he just focus on his family at that time? Once again, what would you do?

He died getting his revenge on the new emperor, and his last words described what the old emperor's wishes were for Romans. He seemed so focused on revenge for his family and the country. Nothing else seemed to matter. I can be focused on a few things in my life, but I often find my attention periodically taken to other less-important events going on around me. I am amazed at the focus and unending dedication of Maximus to just a few ideals. How much more successful in life can you be at home or work or whatever if you are absolutely riveted to a couple of ideals. How easy is it also to make decisions in your life when you only have a few "rules" to base decisions on?

Rule: How does the choice I am preparing to make affect the important things in my life?