From my brother, I learned that there is true evil in the world, and that there are stout warriors who oppose it. He taught me that such bravery comes with a cost, and that true bravery is not in facing danger, but in doing what needs to be done, knowing the cost, but doing it anyway.
My brother taught me that excellence is a choice. Success comes with the application of will, and the fortitude to withstand whatever comes. Goal attainment, not success, is the epitome of excellence. He formulated his goals, worked his ass off to attain them, and in doing so attained excellence. As he says, “The only failure is the failure to try.”
My brother has taught me that greatness does not equal perfection. This is life, and mistakes are part of it. You can chose to let it weigh you down, or you can incorporate it into your life and move on. It is a choice. Choose to live.
My brother taught me that we choose our tribes. We choose with whom we identify, and that we need to be aware of the positives and negatives of being part of a tribe. Choose the right tribes, and be aware of why you chose them, and don’t be afraid to leave the tribe if it isn’t making your life better.
Most of all, my brother taught me that life can hand you nasty, shitty situations, but that perseverance can get you through the shit into happiness.
Don’t give up, ever.
Meditations of a Bald, Fat Guy 