Ashoka the Great
Ashoka (304–232 BCE) was the third emperor of the Maurya dynasty who ruled most of the Indian subcontinent. After the bloody Kalinga War (c. 261 BCE), he was so horrified by the carnage that he converted to Buddhism and adopted a policy of Dhamma — righteous rule based on non-violence, tolerance, and welfare. He sent Buddhist missionaries across Asia (including his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitta to Sri Lanka), built thousands of stupas and hospitals, and erected pillars inscribed with his edicts across India. The Ashoka Chakra on India's national flag is his legacy.
Think of a recent 'victory' that came at someone else's expense. Was it worth it? Ashoka's transformation shows that the greatest power is choosing not to harm.
Reflect at dusk — the hour of accounting.