Words of Caution: Understanding The Risks of Becoming Better Men
The Threat Assessment
The U.S. Navy seals are one of the most elite military forces in the world, suited for all aspects of unconventional warfare. Prior to a mission, Navy Seals receive a threat assessment as part of the overall mission plan. This is used to understand the potential threats and risks they may encounter during an operation, such as enemy combatants, traps, and obstacles.
Although the stakes here are not nearly as high, we attempt to provide a threat assessment to our reader in a similar fashion. When it comes to personal and virtuous growth, we have found that many sources focus solely on the benefits and not enough on the sacrifices required to make the journey. Far too many men abandon the path of self-excellence because they are unaware of just how uncomfortable it can be to become the man they want. By the same token, those of us who transcend this discomfort stand to benefit in ways we could never have imagined. Committing to excellence at any level will test your resolve, and it’s only fitting. Nothing good comes easy, and this is no different.
Studying Greatness
When we evaluate the challenges and obstacles present in any act of self-development and improvement, we can find valuable insight left by great men who have journeyed before us. There is no shortage of great men in history, and traces of the attributes described below can be found in many of their lives. We selected a few whose lives reflect our main points. Keep in mind that the men covered here were all able to accomplish great things, but at one point or another they were hated, persecuted, and even murdered for it. This doesn’t mean that all men are intended to journey in the same way, nor should we attempt to recreate the lives of these figures necessarily. Instead, we should analyze and learn from their story and how they dealt with adversity on the road to self-excellence.
Jesus of Nazareth
Jesus of Nazareth cautioned his followers that they would be persecuted for their beliefs, stating “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18). “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore, be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10.22).
When a man is fluid in his belief systems and yields easily to external pressure, he is likely to fall into everyone’s favor. Yet, when a man decides to stand firm in his beliefs and principles, it will be met by many with criticism, slander, and hate. But standing firm does not justify or imply that one should operate from a place of anger and cynicism. Instead, we should emulate a life of humility where we exercise control over our passions as well as our emotions, paying particular attention not to become the very thing we are trying to avoid. Jesus is the perfect example of this.
So long as it is moral, it is of crucial importance to be aware of our values and not succumb to pressure when it conflicts with outside opinions. In an age where nothing is truly defined, we must ask ourselves what type of men we want to be. Is being accepted more important than being authentic? Will you betray yourself for the sake of comfort and convenience?
Seneca
The ancient philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca warns us that the moment we begin to work on ourselves, others begin to pass judgement. In his work “On the Happy Life”, Seneca cautions that while we make progress and strive for virtue, not everyone will understand our intentions. They may misjudge us and view our actions with skepticism, mistaking our commitment to improvement for arrogance.
Men who have dedicated themselves to becoming better men often confront judgement, doubt, and envy from others. We all must decide whether we will adopt their truth as our own or to see them as distractions that can be used to propel us forward. We must also be cautious not to allow ourselves to meet those who judge us with contempt. Many who judge do so unknowingly, and unintentionally manifest their own insecurities and past traumas. Hating the hater make you a hater too. Instead, we should find comfort in knowing that those who judge us expose their inner vulnerabilities to a greater extent, exposing further their desperate need of compassion and reassurance.
Mahatma Gandhi | Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were both masters of nonviolent resistance that brought about systemic change. Gandhi emphasized the idea that “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.” He warned that those who seek positive change may encounter resistance and ridicule. Dr. King said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
The next time we experience challenge and controversy, we must remember that it is usually there to test our resolve and challenge the commitment we’ve made to ourselves. Perhaps then, we may choose to respond rather than react. Never underestimate the power this has.
Thoughts
Resistance, judgement, hate and envy are all common denominators experienced by successful men and women who challenged the status quo and commit to a life of virtue. Instead of seeing this as daunting, we can learn to see it as a confirmation that we are on the right track. In some instances, this resistance may come from those closest to you, in others, it may come from people you’ve never met. One thing is certain, the moment you stand for something, you undoubtedly tend to find out who you are, and who your friends truly are as well. Such a journey will likely bring hard choices. It’s part of the change we begin to see as we evolve into better versions of ourselves. So, it begs the question, are you ready to unbecome who you are to be who you want to be?
We invite you to engage with us in this exploration of personal development and virtue. Together, we can foster a community of men who enrich their lives and the lives of those around them. In our next post, we’ll delve deeper into the intellectual aspects of our being when we discuss the power of our thoughts and the effects they have on our well being. Until then, remember to Be The Change.
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