Not Every Hero Dies Young—Some Just Grow Up
In Homer’s Iliad, Achilles had two fates to choose: a short but glorious life with legendary reputation or a long and peaceful life but being forgotten.
What fate would you choose?
Growing up, I’ve admired Achilles as one of the greatest and well-known warriors who ever lived. I read children books about Greek myths and Achilles always stood out to me as a role model.
As an adult reading the actual Iliad and Odyssey, my perspective drastically shifted. I’ve cried at the description of Achilles treatment of Hector; he is clearly a war criminal. His rage to avenge his lover led him on a path of short but glorious life.
He is no longer my role model. In any conflict, its important to continue acting with virtue and not lose humanity. No matter what the other person does, our actions have to be guided by virtue. No matter how wronged we feel, how angry or rageful, there is no justification to act without justice or moderation. Leadership can be challenging as we are tempted to employ a heavy-handed approach or find a convenient scapegoat. That is not the way. If leadership does not demonstrate virtue, what hope is there for a healthy organizational culture?
Furthermore, in Homer’s Odyssey, Odysseus talks to dead Achilles in the underworld. Achilles expresses, in no uncertain terms, that he made a wrong choice. The dead Achilles finds no comfort in legendary reputation. He wished to have chosen a long and peaceful life. I am so thankful to have arrived at the time in my life that I have nothing else to prove. I want a long and peaceful life surrounded by people I love, reading, enjoying the nature.
Don’t get me wrong, I love praise… adoration… especially from my boss and colleagues. But it does not outweigh the meaningful moments of being in awe with nature. Deep connection with my wife, friends, and pets. That’s what matters way more than praises.
I’m so happy to let go of chasing a legendary reputation. As long as I act with virtue, that is sufficient. I grew up.