Today we're focused on small acquisitions to add technology

Hear the measured words of Sanjay Kumar, spoken as both caution and counsel: “Today we’re focused on small acquisitions to add technology where necessary. I think it’s fair to say we’re not out looking for a large one, but I think it’s also very fair to say that as a public company you can never say never.” These words, though wrapped in the language of commerce, carry wisdom as deep as the ocean. They speak of strategy, of patience, of prudence in the face of desire, and of the eternal truth that one must be prepared for the unexpected in the affairs of men.

When Kumar speaks of small acquisitions, he reveals the wisdom of measured growth. In every age, men and nations have been tempted by grandeur—by great conquests, vast empires, and sudden leaps toward glory. But often it is not the giant step that secures victory, but the steady stride. By focusing on what is small yet necessary, a company, like a farmer sowing seed, plants carefully for a harvest that endures. Greatness, after all, is often the fruit of patient accumulation rather than reckless ambition.

Yet he does not dismiss the possibility of the large one. With the humility of a leader who understands the shifting tides of the world, Kumar declares that in the realm of a public company, one can never say never. This is no contradiction, but balance: for while the wise man may aim for moderation, he also keeps his eyes open to destiny, knowing that circumstances may demand boldness. Just as the sailor adjusts his sails when the wind changes, so too must the leader be ready for both the small and the great, the expected and the unforeseen.

History itself provides many echoes of this wisdom. Recall the rise of Rome, which began not with vast empires but with careful alliances and measured expansions. At first, Rome acquired only the small and the necessary—neighboring lands, secure roads, modest defenses. Yet when opportunity arose, it did not shrink from greater conquests. By uniting caution with readiness, Rome built an empire that endured for centuries. But those who sought greatness too swiftly—like Alexander, whose vast conquests dissolved after his death—serve as warnings that boldness without balance brings ruin.

So too in the world of technology and commerce. Companies that race after vast acquisitions without wisdom often stumble, burdened by debt and complexity. Yet those that begin with small acquisitions, strengthening where they are weak, building steadily, often endure. Still, the wise leader must never close the door on possibility, for in life, as in war and trade, fortune often comes in unexpected form, and the moment for boldness may arrive unbidden.

The lesson here is simple yet profound: balance ambition with patience. Do not despise small steps, for they lay the foundation for greater ones. But also, do not harden your heart against opportunity, for greatness often comes when least expected. As Kumar teaches, it is folly to say never, for the currents of life may sweep us into harbors we had not imagined. Wisdom is not in denying change, but in being prepared to meet it.

Practically, this teaching means we must live with both steadiness and openness. In our work, let us strengthen ourselves with small gains, learning steadily, improving patiently. But let us also keep watch for the great chance, the bold leap, the door that opens suddenly before us. In our personal lives too, this balance holds: cultivate daily virtues, build quietly, but when destiny calls, do not hesitate to act with courage.

Thus the words of Sanjay Kumar resound as a teaching for all generations: focus on what is small yet essential, for these are the bricks of strength. Yet remember also that no man, no company, no soul may ever say never—for life is a river whose course cannot be fully foretold. Walk with patience, yet stand ready for greatness, and you shall endure through both calm and storm.