Paradoxically, one of the reasons for Rome’s demise was that it kept winning wars. Victories expanded the empire’s territory, and the risks increased proportionally. Men, primarily middle-class men, volunteered as soldiers; the larger the territory, the longer the wars lasted, and the longer it took for them to return home. The women who remained at home were forced to borrow labor and became indebted to the nobility. Eventually, the women were sold into slavery, and by the time the men returned, their families had disintegrated. People don’t betray because they’re evil, but because it increases their risk. If the territory you’re in grows, you might reconsider your loyalties to the organization. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Experience should not serve as a constraint that confines individuals to their past; instead, it should act as a foundation for future endeavors. While successful experiences can instill confidence, they may simultaneously restrict one’s thoughts and actions, leading to potential lapses in judgment. It is noteworthy that my achievements may not have solely stemmed from my abilities but could have been attributed to fortuitous circumstances, often arising from the missteps of others. A valuable experience should not foster arrogance or dismiss the fallibility of unwavering self-assurance and disregard for alternative perspectives. To mitigate the risk of failure, one must cultivate humility. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”