I had learned volleyball in the Navy, where all the…
“I had learned volleyball in the Navy, where all the captains and admirals wanted to be spikers, and I found then that a man who can subdue his own desires and master the art of serving others can make himself invaluable. In choosing sides the team captain always chose the good spikers on the first and second choice, but then the spikers would grab his arm and whisper, 'Take Michener.' I was never chosen lower than third, because I was needed. I wasn't good, but I was faithful.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The narrator values self‑discipline and service, seeing personal worth in humility and loyalty rather than skill alone.
In simple terms: Self‑discipline and service create value.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility and service.
Themes
discipline
service
humility
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- military training
- team leadership
- personal growth
Key Concepts
leadership
personal value
team dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance humility with ambition?
- What does service mean to you?
A Different Perspective
Humility may be undervalued in meritocratic cultures.