Success Is The Best? You Decide

The great Confucius once said, “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.” I happen to love quotes, but I heard this particular one in the most unlikely places. Guess where? The T.V. show “Revenge.” Yes, I watched that glamorous, ridiculous soap opera when it streamed. I know, how gauche of me, to lower myself and watch inane shows that focused on scandals. Speaking of “Scandal,” I watched many seasons of that which also had its share of revenge. Without going too far away from the subject at hand, are there some forms of revenge that are considered positive?  Well, that is debatable. Let us examine a few emotions that are looked upon unfavorably. Take anger. The perception of this robust response is often one with a negative connotation. Used constructively, however, it can mobilize people out of complacency.

Fear is an emotion we, well, fear experiencing because it can paralyze. Conversely, fear can be positive as it can help us avoid dangerous situations. I would argue the same polarity for revenge. Injustice has existed for as long as human beings began roaming the earth. Yet, success can help them rise above the fray of inequity.

What if I don’t like the word revenge, you might ask? Is there a more politically-correct word? Yes, there are many. If you stay with the Rs, a response or remedy comes to mind. I suppose if you want to stretch, there is the word ”route.” How about outside the letter R? The term “approach” stands out. There are probably many synonyms that would fit, but isn’t there something pungent about the word ”revenge?” Think about it.

Join Together and Celebrate Success

Success is the best ___. You choose, but more on the topic of success. A couple of years ago, I was at an event with about 50 to 60 other professionals. The crowd was racially diverse. All participants were small business owners, sole proprietors, or involved with nonprofit organizations. Whatever the background, everyone was there to pursue something that would help their business. The entrepreneurial spirit was the glue that united the group.

As far as sexual orientation, religion, and, thank God, politics, no discussion ensued even though it was the week of the Kavanaugh hearings. Again, the pursuit of excellence was the goal, and regarding people’s preferences and identities, no one asked, no one shared, and no one cared. Being successful with a particular venture was the only goal.

If Possible, Begin The Success Path Early

All who attend display the fact that with the right circumstances and expectations, children can excel regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Paving the road to success can begin at a young age. There is a charter school in NYC that is appropriately named Success Academy. Numerous articles have highlighted the achievements of Success’ students. Children enter through a lottery system. Much of the school’s composition is of underprivileged children. All who attend display the fact that with the right circumstances and expectations, children can excel regardless of their socioeconomic background. According to an article written by Dr. Thomas Sowell in the Wall Street Journal on June 18, 2020, “Their predominantly black and Hispanic students already pass tests in mathematics and English at a higher rate than any school district in the entire state. That includes predominantly white and Asian school districts where parental income is some multiple of what it is among Success Academy students.” How is that for overcoming obstacles of low income and the opportunity to achieve success? Well, success here is the best, whatever word you choose, for anyone who doubted these children’s ability. I am sure their parents experience great joy, knowing their budding flowers have a higher chance of a glorious bloom.

Overcoming Obstacles to Achieve Success

Now let us go back in time to someone whose odds were not in his favor. Benjamin Banneker had a few months of education at a one-room Quaker school. Early on, however, he exhibited signs of mathematical and scientific genius. Reportedly, Mr. Banneker built a clock out of wood, modeled from a pocket watch. Later, he borrowed a telescope from his neighbor and taught himself astronomical calculations. This self-learning helped him predict a solar eclipse. Throughout his life, Mr. Banneker continued to involve himself in other innovative enterprises. The irony here was that not only was he never formally educated, but he was a descendant of former slaves, living as a free black man in the 1700s. The yearly almanacs spread his fame as the “African astronomer, ” which was perfect fodder for the abolitionists to fight racial stereotypes. How sweet it is when you have a child of former slaves surge to the highest levels of success.

Success is the Best????

As exemplified, there is nothing more exhilarating than the path toward success. Circumstances, opportunities, tenacity, and mindset are the elements necessary to not only begin but remain on the topsy turvy journey toward this goal. Yes, success is the best? Well, no matter what anyone thinks, I standby, “revenge.” To me, it encapsulates passion and determination, and what could be more sumptuous?

What Are Your Thoughts?

What are your thoughts about the positive side of revenge? Is success the best revenge? Have you ever experienced it in a way you or someone else doubted you could? I invite you to share.