“The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances.”

“The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances.”

—Aristotle, ancient Greek Philosopher

No one who has ever lived has led a completely charmed life in which everything went well, pushed along by a kind breeze.

On the surface of things, many people think that celebrities, great sports figures, accomplished business leaders, and even folks that share the highlights of their lives on social media have it made.

When you look even inches below the surface however, we all bear the scars of the numerous lumps and bumps life delivers.

EXERCISE:

How can you demonstrate and more fully appreciate the dignity and grace in yourself and others as you and those around you make the best of what life presents?

Illegitimi Non Carborundum

“Illegitimi Non Carborundum”

Image from pinterest.com

Image from pinterest.com

 

The mock-Latin aphorism, illegitimi non carborundum, means “Don’t let the bastards grind you down.”

It was first brought to my attention years ago by Stan Ershler, my District Sales Manager when I was a rookie pharmaceutical representative for the Upjohn Company.

Stan shared this pearl of wisdom one day following a very unpleasant interaction with an arrogant, condescending physician. This doctor saw himself as God’s gift to medicine and wanted to be sure I knew my place—which of course, was well beneath him.

EXERCISE:

Where and with whom in your personal or professional life would reciting this catchy phrase provide you a booster shot of dignity when the “bastards” try to grind you down?