by - 0 comments

Theseus’s lessons via Plutharch

Plutarch’s Parallel Lives offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Theseus, the legendary hero of Athens. More than just a collection of myths, Theseus’s story provides valuable insights into human nature and the complexities of leadership. By examining his triumphs and failures, we can glean timeless wisdom applicable to our own lives and the challenges we face today.


5 Key Lessons from Theseus:


* Embrace Courage and Action: Don’t just dream of goals; actively pursue them with courage and determination. Theseus faced challenges head-on, and that’s a valuable trait for anyone seeking to achieve something significant.
* Unite for a Common Good: Effective leadership involves inspiring others to work towards a shared vision. Theseus unified Attica, demonstrating the power of collaboration and collective action.
* Cultivate Humility and Self-Awareness: Success can easily lead to arrogance. Theseus’s later follies serve as a reminder to always remain grounded and aware of one’s limitations.
* Strive for Virtue, But Acknowledge Imperfections: No one is perfect. Even heroes have flaws. The important thing is to strive for a virtuous life while acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes.
* Strive for Excellence, Not Perfection: Don’t let the pursuit of perfection paralyze you. Focus on continuous improvement and strive to overcome challenges while making a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion:
Theseus’s journey, with its blend of heroic deeds and human flaws, serves as a powerful reminder that true strength lies not in perfection, but in the courage to face challenges, the wisdom to learn from mistakes, and the dedication to strive for a better future for ourselves and those around us. Let us draw inspiration from Theseus’s example, embracing his courage, his vision, and his commitment to a life of purpose and meaning.

by - 0 comments

A year of transformative change

Share what you know about the year you were born.

The year of my birth began with the passing of one of history’s most significant leaders: Winston Churchill. Known for his indomitable spirit and stirring rhetoric, Churchill’s leadership during World War II shaped the course of history and inspired millions.


This was also a year of groundbreaking innovation that laid the foundation for the interconnected world we know today. James Russell’s invention of the optical disk revolutionized data storage, paving the way for technologies like the compact disc. Meanwhile, Digital Equipment Corporation introduced the first computer using integrated circuits, a milestone on the path to personal computing. Lawrence Roberts achieved a historic breakthrough by enabling two computers in separate locations to communicate, planting the seeds for the internet. Even the concept of social media took root, with a prototype television-telephone showcased in Stuttgart, Germany, hinting at the video calls we now make effortlessly on smartphones.

A new television/telephone is on display at the International Radio Exhibition in Stuttgart, West Germany

Space exploration reached new heights. Cosmonaut Aleksei Leonov became the first person to walk in space, spending 12 breathtaking minutes outside his spacecraft. Mariner 4 sent back humanity’s first close-up images of Mars, covering a distance of 66 million miles and demonstrating the systems needed for interplanetary travel.


The cultural landscape of my birth year was equally vibrant. Boxing legend Muhammad Ali reigned as heavyweight champion, while the Beatles and the Rolling Stones revolutionized music. The Rolling Stones’ hit “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” topped the charts, becoming an anthem of the era.


Globally, America was embroiled in the Vietnam War, escalating its military campaign through Operation Rolling Thunder and deploying vast numbers of troops. The conflict’s brutal tactics and civilian toll sparked outrage at home, where television broadcasts brought the war into living rooms and fueled growing opposition.


Domestically, America grappled with profound racial tensions. On “Bloody Sunday,” peaceful protesters in Selma, Alabama, were violently attacked, a pivotal moment that spurred the passage of the Voting Rights Act. Signed by President Lyndon Johnson, this landmark legislation dismantled discriminatory voting practices, marking a critical step toward equality.


In the world of automobiles, the Ford Mustang 2+2 Fastback debuted, embodying the spirit of 1960s American muscle cars. Stylish and high-performance, it became a symbol of freedom, innovation, and the American dream—a cultural icon that endures to this day.


My birth year was a time of transformative change and remarkable achievements, setting the stage for a future filled with unprecedented possibilities.

© Jurgens Pieterse – All rights reserved. 2024

by - 0 comments

Reflecting on My Inconsistent “Judge of Character”

Are you a good judge of character?

I’ve come to realize that I’m not particularly adept at assessing people’s true nature. The act of “judging” itself is inherently flawed. It involves perceiving individuals based on limited information and personal biases, often leading to inaccurate conclusions.


My history of misjudging others is a testament to this. I frequently err on the side of optimism, giving people the benefit of the doubt, which unfortunately has sometimes backfired. Despite priding myself on wisdom and insight, I often find my initial assessments to be incorrect.


Age hasn’t improved my accuracy either. I consistently see potential in people, even latent talents they may be unaware of themselves. However, this tendency to focus on potential blinds me to their actual behaviors and choices.


The stark contrast between how I perceive people and how they actually behave is a constant source of frustration. This discrepancy highlights the limitations of my judgment and the danger of preconceived notions.


Moving forward, I’m committed to a new approach: suspending judgment. I’ll strive to observe people’s actions without preconceived expectations. This shift in perspective will not only reduce disappointment but also allow me to develop a more accurate and nuanced understanding of others.

by - 0 comments

Embracing the Cycle: A Solstice Reflection on Life and Gratitude

When are you most happy?

I am on my happiest now, in the stillness of the night, where the world holds its breath, my soul stirs. Awakened by the whisper of the summer solstice, it feels like a moment to unfurl unseen wings and soar. In this profound darkness, a cocoon of silence wraps around me, inviting reflection, contemplation, and integration. It is a sacred pause, the end of one year and the quiet beginning of another.

No plans guide me tonight. I sit in the vast, open stillness, free of thought’s constraints. The night cradles me, timeless and boundless, and I find myself awash in gratitude for simply being here—alive, aware, and present. Life, with all its trials and triumphs, stands before me like a canvas painted with the brushstrokes of time. The universe, in its quiet wisdom, has always carried me forward, even through the storms.

Looking back, I see a life lived with authenticity, imperfect yet deeply meaningful. Failures and mistakes were the roots of my growth, and though I stumbled, I always found my balance again. The longest stretch of my journey may be behind me, but there is no mourning here. Instead, I celebrate each year, each accomplishment, each fleeting moment of joy. Life, even in its smallest details, has been a gift—one I treasure deeply.

A flower blooms, a pedal falls, a cycle repeats


I do not fear the inevitability of death. Like a flower in its bloom, radiant and complete, there comes a time to fold back into the earth. I will not rush that moment. It will arrive on its own, gentle and unbidden. Until then, I will cling to life, not out of fear but out of love—for the next moment, for one more breath, for the wonder that lingers in the unknown.

When the time comes, I hope to meet it with peace, knowing I have lived as fully and meaningfully as I could. I will return to the Source, the Ur, knowing my life has been a song sung to its fullest note. Just as the cycle of nature turns, I, too, will yield to its rhythm. For now, my task is simple: to savor every moment left, to live with gratitude, and to embrace the beauty of existence

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

by - 0 comments

Shopping Simplified: The Essentials That Make My List Every Time

List your top 5 grocery store items.

The 5 Essentials I Always Grab at the Grocery Store

When it comes to grocery shopping, I like to keep things simple and focus on the essentials that sustain my day-to-day routine. Here are the top five items that always make it into my cart, along with why they’re so important to me.

1. Milk

Coffee is a daily ritual in my household, and we love our coffee plain—no sugar, just the comforting creaminess of milk. To make sure we never face the catastrophe of a coffee-less morning, we stock up on milk religiously. It’s not just for coffee, though; milk often finds its way into cooking or a late-night glass for a quick protein fix.

2. Bottled Water

Hydration is non-negotiable, and since I can’t always rely on the tap water, bottled water is a must. We go through a lot of it, so this is always on the top of the list. Staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking enough; it’s about ensuring the quality of what you drink, which is why this is a no-brainer for me.

3. Bread (in Various Forms)

Bread is the ultimate staple. Whether it’s a soft loaf for sandwiches, crusty rolls for dinner, or even pita for dipping, bread is always versatile. It can be a meal on its own or the perfect companion to soups, spreads, and everything in between. It’s comforting and filling, making it an essential item I always reach for.

4. Energy Drink

Some days call for an extra kick of energy, and an energy drink is my go-to for those moments. Whether I’m tackling a busy day or need a mid-afternoon boost, it’s my reliable pick-me-up. It’s not an everyday indulgence, but when I need it, it’s there.

5. Eggs

Adding eggs to the list feels like the natural complement to the other four essentials. Eggs are the ultimate multi-tasker in the kitchen: they’re packed with protein, quick to prepare, and incredibly versatile. From a simple scrambled egg breakfast to adding richness in baking or acting as a binding agent in recipes, eggs tie everything together. They’re also cost-effective and long-lasting in the fridge, making them a practical choice.

Wrapping It Up

These five items—milk, bottled water, bread, energy drinks, and eggs—are the backbone of my grocery list. They reflect a balance of practicality, convenience, and nourishment, ensuring that my household stays fueled, hydrated, and ready for whatever the day brings. ….ok, ok…sometimes I slip in a chocolate as well to spoil myself when I deserved it. What are your grocery essentials? Let me know in the comments!

©<Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024