humility

Ostentation is a common phenomenon in the United States. Everywhere you go you see excess and magnanimity. It's the land of bling and pretentiousness. Everyone is so concerned about image, there is little to no value placed on talent, ability, performance. It's not about practicality, or the right tool for the right job, it's about showing off to the whole world (or at least all those immediately around you who can gaze at you in awe, curse their own miserable lives and wish they were you). It's the only place in the world where SUVs like the Hummer, H2 and H3 could thrive. Not to mention the Escalade or the Navigator. Hey, I'm driving an oversize $60,000 truck, not because I really need to drive offroad or haul huge loads of cargo or many people, but just because I feel the need to look awesome.


If I were the devil (and who is to say that I am not?), I'd have a particularly hot little spot in hell reserved for the people who are posers. Those guys who put crazy body kits or a big wing on their Honda Accord. The guys who spent $10,000 on a stereo upgrade or a flashy purple and green paintjob, on a $5000 car. Ok maybe I just feel bad for people who have to do such crazy and illogical things to try and attract someone's attention.




Fortunately, there is another path to choose. One of humility, subtlety, and modesty. Focus your energy on purpose and achievement, not on showmanship or image. This unassuming characteristic appeals to me in a dark way. Staying in the shadows, not attracting any attention to yourself, concealing your strength or power, until the moment when that strength or power is needed. The look of surprise, the shock and awe of someone who has underestimated you and discovered the truth the hard way, that is priceless. It is the concept of stealth. And it is also a growing phenomenon in America, although not nearly as prevalent as the bling. But I cherish it, and enjoy seeing the drama unfold when it happens.

Consider for instance this video, a race between a Camaro and a station wagon:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6133912955628716829

So who did you think was going to win that race? The verbal reaction of the female spectator sums it all up I think. True substance concealed by unostentatiousness. Now that's what I'm talking about.