The Greks had a word, ARISTEIA, which they defined as noble excellence that was seen only in men of good breeding who made themselves first in war and counsel.
The quality of the hero is defined by the challenge. A hero's character and true strength are revealed and judged based on the magnitude and nature of the obstacles they face and overcome, implying that a significant challenge is what truly tests and showcases a hero's capabilities. A hero's qualities like courage, resilience, and determination are most evident when they confront difficult situations. Overcoming complex challenges allows a hero to develop and demonstrate their full potential. A hero isn't defined solely by their strength or abilities, but by how they utilize them in the face of adversity. A warrior who easily defeats minor enemies might not be considered a true hero, but if they face a seemingly insurmountable obstacle and find a way to triumph, their heroism is highlighted.
The challenge we are facing is greater than anything ever before encountered. This means that your work here is of the utmost importance and value.
I imagine that we are in the mead hall and I stand and raise my cup to you, “To Barbaric Disciple, HAIL!!!”
This post really resonates with me. The concept of aristeia—noble excellence displayed in moments of decisive greatness—isn’t just about physical dominance, it’s also about singularity of purpose. It’s a model of agency that challenges us to not only achieve greatness, but to inspire it in others.
As the post makes clear, this kind of excellence isn’t handed to anyone through privilege or divine favour. It’s about dedication to purpose and what the author calls the "Great Work." This requires people being willing to push back against mediocrity and complacency.
The challenge lies in the many narratives out there designed to water down that drive for excellence. As the post points out, ancient truths—like the idea that greatness requires hard work, risk, and sacrifice—get drowned out by scepticism and ridicule. This is why it's not enough to work solely on your our growth; we also have to push back against the corrupting systems and mindsets that discourage striving for something greater.
Meekness is not weakness. You misunderstand the virtue. Its strength and prowess under rational control, exercised in the right measure for the right reason.
The quality of the hero is defined by the challenge. A hero's character and true strength are revealed and judged based on the magnitude and nature of the obstacles they face and overcome, implying that a significant challenge is what truly tests and showcases a hero's capabilities. A hero's qualities like courage, resilience, and determination are most evident when they confront difficult situations. Overcoming complex challenges allows a hero to develop and demonstrate their full potential. A hero isn't defined solely by their strength or abilities, but by how they utilize them in the face of adversity. A warrior who easily defeats minor enemies might not be considered a true hero, but if they face a seemingly insurmountable obstacle and find a way to triumph, their heroism is highlighted.
The challenge we are facing is greater than anything ever before encountered. This means that your work here is of the utmost importance and value.
I imagine that we are in the mead hall and I stand and raise my cup to you, “To Barbaric Disciple, HAIL!!!”
This post really resonates with me. The concept of aristeia—noble excellence displayed in moments of decisive greatness—isn’t just about physical dominance, it’s also about singularity of purpose. It’s a model of agency that challenges us to not only achieve greatness, but to inspire it in others.
As the post makes clear, this kind of excellence isn’t handed to anyone through privilege or divine favour. It’s about dedication to purpose and what the author calls the "Great Work." This requires people being willing to push back against mediocrity and complacency.
The challenge lies in the many narratives out there designed to water down that drive for excellence. As the post points out, ancient truths—like the idea that greatness requires hard work, risk, and sacrifice—get drowned out by scepticism and ridicule. This is why it's not enough to work solely on your our growth; we also have to push back against the corrupting systems and mindsets that discourage striving for something greater.
Meekness is not weakness. You misunderstand the virtue. Its strength and prowess under rational control, exercised in the right measure for the right reason.