Being Not Like The Good Ones {Tribute series - Prelude}

Photo depicting the Fates — Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos — were divinities in Greek mythology who presided over human life. Together, the Fates represented the inescapable destiny of humanity. 

Public Figures and Historical Recognition

Historically, there were records for those considered public figures. By public figures, I mean those who engaged in the public life of the people—individuals recognized as influential and publicly acknowledged as such. Needless to mention, the criteria for influence in earlier times differed significantly from those of today.

Some of these figures lived what others perceived as successful careers or lives, admired by later generations who aspired to similar paths. Nevertheless, other public figures did not live what many would consider a rewarding life. In some cases, their narratives evoke sympathy rather than admiration.

Rethinking Success and Misfortune

In my own thinking, there is much to consider before delivering a verdict on someone’s life. Even those regarded as fortunate or lucky may have carried burdens hidden beyond what biographies reveal. Ultimately, the public relies on what is received and recognized about these figures, even when such accounts may be shaped by rumors or telltales.

These articles are not about individuals who lived prosperous or affluent lives, or those merely perceived as such. If this disappoints your expectations, I advise you to disregard what follows. Instead, this series of articles will focus on those whom the majority considers to have lived through challenging human experiences—not to discount their influence, but to acknowledge their strength and the inspiration drawn from their endurance.

A Tribute to Overlooked Human Experiences

These articles are presented as a tribute to those who lived in times when life did not offer advantages in exchange for their qualities and merits. The reflections will center on human experiences rather than achievements or public influence.

They are written with pride and honor—not to pity these lives, but to dignify and commemorate their suffering and journeys. In times when goodness is considered naïve and values are often overrated regardless of context, this may serve as a reminder that sympathy and pity should instead be reserved for predators and those who acted unjustly without decency.

Shared Tragedies and Collective Memory

These narratives represent some of humanity’s tragedies. The difference lies in how the public came to know these stories and connect with them, sometimes in unprecedented ways. Perhaps they did not receive the same publicity as other figures, for reasons that remain unclear.

These reflections are offered to honor revered human experiences once shared publicly and shaped by collective awareness. They invite contemplation and assimilation of the less favorable aspects of life—those that, in many ways, define life as we know it across the past, present, and future.