Learning from Cleo

I received a copy of Cleopatra:A Life by Stacy Shiff by virtue of my membership in the book club, From Left to Write. This is not a review. This post was inspired by the book.

Cleopatra---consummate politician, sex goddess, mother, sister, ruler, daughter, heroine. What can we learn from her?

Learn the language and culture of the people you wish to influence—in her case she wished to rule them. Cleopatra was Greek by birth but learned the language of the Egyptians when other Ptolemies refuse to do so.

Visit with the people. If we are to influence others they must know we care. Walk among those you wish to persuade.

Understand the macro and the micro political lay of the land. Cleo not only walked about the villages and knew her people, she visited Cesar and knew the larger context of the nation she was trying to rule. This is an excellent model for all of us. Whether you’re trying to influence a family, a corporation, a church or a nation, know the greater context of what informs and demands the attention of your people.

And it doesn’t hurt to look good and know the power of your own sexuality as Cleo did! 

Cut Off From Your Power?

What gives you strength? Power? Motivation?

What takes away your strength? Power? Motivation?

When I have a "down day," my analysis gene kicks in to high gear? Why? Why am I down? What source of power have I been cut off from? My first go-to answer is sleep. I have needed eight hours (nine is better) all my life, even as a hyperactive young person. So question #1 is "Did I have enough sleep?"

Question #2 is "Have I had too much or not enough socializing?" As an extrovert, I need a large dose. As an aging (don't ever tell anyone I admitted that.) extrovert, I need less than I used to. Getting the exact amount of socializing is tricky but necessary for maintaining my strength, power and motivation.

Question #3 is "Have I had appropriate spiritual nourishment?" I can get out-of-whack if I haven't had my spiritual cup filled through worship (see yesterday's post about constitutes worship).

Question #4 is "Have I exercised?" This one is tough for me. I don't like exercise. I have never liked exercise. I'm not likely to fall in love with exercise in the near future. I have admitted, however, that exercise is essential to my well-being.

Question #5 is "Have I had some fun?" Fun of late consists to a large extent of being with grandchildren, Tristan and Payden. For years now, I have been able to acknowledge that I have to have fun in my life to maintain my equilibrium.

What is your source of power? Are you plugged in?