Dear Brethren, Ladies, and Friends:
I just finished reading a prequel story to one of my favorite books, The Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman. You may have noticed that this book was just made into a movie with Nick Nolte (and it's now on DVD).
I love this book, because it demonstrates two separate character traits, which, when combined, create a very powerful person.
First, a warrior is one who becomes committed to action, a goal. Warriors are not necessarily great fighters, or even skilled in combat at all. Warriors are strong in sprit, and are completely, and unhesitatingly committed to an outcome. While most people sit in their lazy, comfortable lives and dream, hope, or wish their life would be a certain way, someone with a warrior spirit will stop at NOTHING to achieve his aim. The greatest samurai are credited with this fearlessness and unstopability. Yet, so are some of the great businessmen of our age. And, some of the greatest musicians. And, political leaders. It is notable that history records the names of the people that would not let any amount of adversity stop them, or even swerve them from their goals. Also notable is the clear absence of those who let circumstances stop them short of their goals in the same annals of memory.
Second, and no more or less important, is the character and temperament of one at peace. One who accomplishes all his goals, yet suffers inwardly at the guilt, pressure, angst, and turmoil caused by lack of compassion for his fellow man on his journey is no better off for having attained them. Peace comes from accepting life as it comes, freeing yourself from worries, concerns, expectations, and doubts. Living each moment for what it is: a precious, extraordinary gift. It is a state of mind, and it exists whether you are tenaciously pursuing a goal in life, just as when you are alone and without goals. But, he who combines the two is a powerful being, worthy of respect and emulation.
The prequel (The Journeys of Socrates), gave me an appreciation of our forefathers: people who had none of our luxuries or conveniences, yet aspired to things greater than most people do today. It filled me with reverence and respect for those who forged through unthinkable dangers to give us the world we know today. And, inspired me to take care of that world, and create an even better one for our successors.
Don't have goals of your own yet? Make some. Achieve them. Choose someone else's, temporarily, if it helps. Donate blood with us on April 15th, 2007. Give charitably to those who are committed to making a notable difference (like our very own Masonic Homes). Donate your time and energy to creating a future of which our successors will be tearfully proud.
Fraternally,
David Sylvester
Senior Warden