Somewhere in history, a second-rate philosopher proclaimed “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”. That quotation was probably directed at elementary school children; suffering the mockery of their class-mates. But hell, I suppose there’s more to wisdom than where you find it. Emulating the positive traits you see in others is, after all what having a role model is all about.
But you shouldn’t allow yourself to become so infatuated with the ‘dynamic personae’ that you willingly turn a blind eye to their most egregious faults. What (or who) consumes your thoughts controls your mind. Many despots have used their personal charisma to deflect the arrows of accusation cast by the masses.
It has also been said that “vicarious existence is a f#@king waste of time”. Look, blind idolatry is not an acceptable lifestyle choice. When people who you admire show their ugly side, there’s no feel-good proverb that suggests you should do the same. It’s important to challenge people who hold positions of power or influence.
So What is this post all about? It has come to pass that certain persons whom I once greatly admired have revealed themselves as sufferers of outrageous megalomania. I find that I can no longer consider these persons suitable mentors. I do after all have my own ideals; which I shall not compromise simply because a particular clique suffers the delusion that they define the status-quo.
I’m sorry to have been so cryptic.
Who is this about?