Rabbi Akiva's Heart

In the Gemara there is a bit of a discussion as to the maximum size of an Esrog. In order to support the position that a large one is acceptable, Rebbe Yose told a story that Rebbe Akiva once came to shul with his Esrog on his shoulder.

I find it interesting that Rebbe Akiva is the one who showed up with the huge Esrog. The Esrog is known to represent the heart of a person and Rebbe Akiva is known as the "heart of the Jewish Nation." It is most appropriate that this big-hearted man should be coming to shul with a large Esrog.