life, kids, and brazilian jiu jitsu

What is power?

What was the sentiment in LOTR – oh yeah – The race of man who above all, desires power.  It’s sort of a pervasive theme it seems.  The people who give me the impression that they set their own value by how many people that they can dominate, intimidate or denigrate.  I get it.  It’s a hierarchy that is as old as time.  Human nature right?

Well…

I say power over others is a substitute for something.  Power abusers have very little access to meaningful society mirrors.  Certainly those within the locus of power almost immediately cease to be reliable mirrors in order to survive and the power-monger becomes increasingly isolated.  Their circle of friends is transient.  Friends drift in, get to know them, and quietly bow out.  In my experience the power brokers tend to blame others for this.  But eventually one needs to look at the common denominator.

I guess the question to ask is for what is power a substitute?  If the answer is good relationships, meaningful friendships, hobbies, interests or passions, then maybe you should stick with power.  It’s worked for you up to now right?  Why move away from something that makes you happy?

Share on Facebook