Frankly I NEVER want to hear 'change' unless it's my favorite, liquor store (privately owned) or coffee place (privately owned....see a trend?) worker dropping it in my hand. Today began like the last, with an antacid, deep sigh, and a self-affirmation that would take me through the day and keep me from smothering myself in self pity and skittles. Today though after a shameless raid on the post Halloween stash (which is hoarded symbolically on the lowest shelf, in the darkest, deepest corner of the cupboard...that way I bow down and prostrate to my lack of self control and diminishing self esteem); I could bare no longer and read a few front page titles regarding this 'handing over the reins or reigns' I forget which is more appropriate in this case. Scary when both seem appropriate.
I had a glimmer of an epiphany but quickly realized it was likely an aura: a prelude to a migraine or seizure. Wouldn't know if I did have a seizure since I'm grouchy and defiant rivaling most in post ictal behavior anyway (I did warn you I'm going to ramble a bit). So anyway, I thought about this person whom we know little about, that has spent less time in public affairs than the guy on the corner from where I work who yells obscenities --A guy who has had less experience in world economics and policy than a Benneton Model, a man who has sought the seat of power and will now have it.
Anyone ever hear of King Dionysius? It was like a bolt of lightening that hit me. I recalled this story that probably I haven't thought about for 20 years, easily. In my sorted, elementary education (public school- give me a break) Dionysius seized Syracuse and amassed sizable riches and power. His kingdom legendary in its own time, became the topic of boast among one of its citizens (or is it subjects? ..it's scary once again that either may be used in the future). This citizen's name was Damocles. Damocles made it known through his adorations of Dionysius (visa vie the throne) he too desired such notoriety and fame, and power.
Dionysius upon hearing this and obviously a man who did not mince words invited, no, ORDERED Damocles to sit upon a golden throne (the story is told differently from what I recall) and be waited on by maidens of such beauty, and handsome musicians whose songs would carry his thoughts to the heavens for a day.
Well, it sounds like a sweet deal to me personally but what made it hard to endure was a sword hanging precariously over the 'throne of power' by a single horse hair. (from this point the Glenlivet is taking hold) It caused an ENORMOUS amount of fear and apprehension in Damocles. 'No enjoyment can be had when with a subtle wind blows, my life extinguished; Dionysius please let me away from this torture!' To which Dionysius wisely points out that with the image of prosperity and power comes the constant anxiety.
Now, you can translate this any way you want. Wether he knows it or not, with all the fanfare, and pillared greatness, the reins that are being handed over in January will also come with a precarious dangling sword of uncertainty overhead that only a TRUE leader can endure.
Thanks for reading and I apologize for my vented reflections.
Rok
The man who sits in it is just a man, though, however great or small he may be.*
Well said.