Adversity Quote by Kilroy J. Oldster
““Original sin is a self-initiating act because it evidences human free will. If humanity were devoid of free will, it would relegate humankind to living by instinct. A person who lives by instinct might survive for an enviable period, but they will never live a heroic existence. Every hero’s story commences with an unsatisfied and optimistic person venturing out from the comfortable confines of their common day world, facing forces of fabulous power, and fighting a magnificent personal battle. The greatest traditional heroes were warriors whom survived on the battlefield and learned valuable lessons of honor, love, loyalty, and courage. Heroic warriors and spiritual seekers undertook a rigorous quest, an enduring ordeal that enabled them to transcend their own personhood’s shallow desire merely to survive. By enduring hardships, experiencing breathtaking encounters with the physical world, and undergoing a spiritual renaissance, the hero gains a hard-won sense self-discovery, comprehends his or her place in society, and accepts their role as a teacher. A hero is a bearer of light, wisdom, and charity. The hero reenters society and shares their culmination of knowledge by devoting their life to teaching other people.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Heroic Quest, Kilroy J. Oldster, 2015
Free will drives heroic action; without it, humanity would be instinctual, lacking purpose and moral growth.
In simple terms: Free will fuels heroic purpose.
Embrace challenges to discover purpose.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military service
- personal adversity
- spiritual practice
- leadership development
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal sacrifices are necessary for true heroism?
- How does free will shape moral responsibility?
Heroic narratives can romanticize suffering.