Established In Who You Are

People are fascinating.

When you know who you are it is one of the most liberating experiences.

In The Godfather we have the Don who is revered and feared. After the attempted assassination failed, the Don knows he does not have long so must pass on to his successor. Michael never saw himself as the successor, but perhaps deep down he was always destined. He has the character, it just needs the experience to prove it.

As the old Don passes on, Michael is well advised as to the moves he needs to make to truly establish his position. He solidifies his position as he takes on the role as a godfather. By the end of the day any doubts about his standing are wiped away, his actions as affirmed by his father, help establish his position.

I’m convinced that the Mafia just took a leaf out of the book of Kings. Especially chapter two of the first book. Here is Solomon, having just survived an attempt to usurp his rightful position as successor to his dad. At the start, Solomon hears the words of his father. Words that reaffirm his son, and informs him of what he needs to do.

The test in the pudding, just like the Don, is when David dies. Solomon, applying the wisdom that his dad commends, ensures any threats to his throne are eliminated and old scores are settled that leaves no doubt in anyone’s mind that this dude knows who he is.

I’m obviously not endorsing getting hits arranged for annoying people in your life. I am affirming the liberating nature of knowing who you are and having the experiences that establish that which leaves others in no doubt.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden