It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles...

“It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell.” -Buddha

Last night, I decided to do something that I have not done in a very long time. I decided to call it a day at 10pm and meditate. That’s right; I stopped working, turned off all my phones and computers, in order to shut off the switch of the perpetual machine that I call "My Mind". I climbed on top of the roof and meditated, all while glancing at the stars overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Why do you ask?..  Well, I personally needed a break! I needed a break from the world and most importantly MYSELF!

I have personally come to the conclusion that the only competition I have is staring at me right in front of the mirror. Just when I thought that I have calculated every internal and external personal variable.... I have come to the realization, that this is just the beginning.  Sometimes the tenacious personal drive that I have held myself accountable to all these years is so unyielding that I tend to neglect my friends, family, and most importantly, myself.

The interesting parable is that I consider this mindset as a psychological strength, but in all rationality, it is a weakness. Therefore, where do I find an equilibrium? Life is about balance, and without it, the body and mind tend to plummet off of the seesaw that we call life.

Time and time again, just when I thought I have come close to overcoming my own personal battles and demons, a new war begins. I guess it is safe to say that it’s all just part of life’s game plan. When one is disciplined enough to control his/her self, then he/she has truly conquered all battles. For the battles within oneself, are the greatest battles of all. That is why conquering oneself is a test of time. Now the question is, “Can it be done?”

In conclusion, the “Philosophical HUGO” has been doing a lot of thinking lately. I have realized that the greatest battle that one will try to ever conquer on this earth is against themselves! Therefore, only one can control their enemies, by controlling themselves first! In addition, once you learn to control your personal weaknesses, the Gods will bless you with the gift of controlling your enemy, and when you have the ability to control your enemy, you can then control yourself! .......... Contemplate on that...