From Plato's Republic, on Virtue
I received this little snippet from a cadet yesterday. Thought it was something good to think about.
Vice in abundance is easy to get, The road is smooth and begins beside you, But the gods have put sweat between us and virtue and a road that is long and steep.
Republic, Bk. II: 364d
Man up!
Lenten Devotion – Selflessness
We took an amazing trip to San Luis, Colorado yesterday. There, among the high-desert plain and the rock-covered mountains, stands the Shrine to the Stations of the Cross. It’s a marvelous experience, hiking up the mountain side, following the footsteps of Jesus; from his death-sentencing until He resurrects from the tomb. We had a group of 34 people, led by Fr Joe and Deacon Bob.
As we walked the rocky ground, contemplating the weight of the cross beam on Jesus’ shredded back (shredded from the scourging at the pillar),I was in awe of just how difficult Christ’s journey must have been. And while contemplating the journey, I realized that I’m simply not selfless enough. He gave everything for me (and you), yet, I’m still prone to selfish desires and self-serving interests.
The culture wants men to believe that it’s all about them; their needs, their desires. That a man can plow through any innocent bystander if they impede his progress of attaining his goal(s). Get get get, take take take – never worrying about taking anyone out along the way. Being self-serving is actually self-reliance, self-defense and self-preservation – they say. In reality, a man should be self-denying, self-sacrificing and self-giving. He is called to attend to the needs of others before his own. He is called to defend, protect and build up, even if it means blood, sweat and tears. A True Man follows Christ’s example.
Man up!
