By Arnold Siegel
“Character is Destiny,” is a quote attributed to the Greek philosopher, Heraclitus (535 BCE – 465 BCE). It implies that destiny, or fate, is not a predetermined outside force, but that one’s future or destiny, is determined by his or her own inner character.
Yet, while the character or substance of our autonomy is a crucial asset and its absence painfully felt, the need to acquire it is often overlooked. If our goals for a personally rewarding life remain out of reach, it is to this character we should look. The good news: even if nothing else about life is equal, we do have a fair shot at acquiring character. The destiny you envision for yourself remains a possibility—something you can shape and control—and transcendence is your means.
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