I grew up in Montana during the Custer shift as I call it. Initially in my life Custer was a hero, and then the true stories started being taught. Then I learned about Chief Joseph and all sorts of battles. My eyes were opened. Was Custer all bad?
Until I read that article all I knew of John Muir was his conservationist side. I had no idea about his, and the Sierra Clubs, truth. Can someone be a sinner and a saint?
We glorify people. We align with them. We act as if our leaders and heroes are perfect. We act as if they can’t be heroes or leaders if they aren’t flawless. That’s a trap. We, and these people, must accept that we all are flawed. We all make mistakes. We must admit them, grow, and learn.
So what do we do? Where is the line? Oh, there’s always a shifting line. That can be a good thing. It shifted when the US became independent. It shifted after the civil war. So, where is your line? Why?
I believe we need to shift away from blind celebration of our heroes and move to rousing celebration of events. That allows us to celebrate individuals in a way that recognizes an achievement, and does not idealize them.
A summary of the words of John; then you will know the truth, and it will set you free. And Dave... Chappelle, You know, to be able to do something great in your life, you're gonna have to realize your failures. You're gonna have to embrace them and figure out how to overcome it.
