I happen to dig being able to use whatever mystique I have to

The words of Garrett Morris — “I happen to dig being able to use whatever mystique I have to further the idea of peace” — shine like a torch in the twilight of human striving. They remind us that every soul, however small or great in renown, carries within them a radiance, a kind of aura, a mystique born of their journey, their struggles, and their triumphs. This mystique is not mere vanity or the trappings of fame; it is the subtle influence that a life well-lived can cast upon others. And to wield such power not for gain or conquest, but for the gentle yet unyielding cause of peace, is a noble art that belongs to the wise.

From the beginning of time, men have been tempted to wield their gifts for pride, wealth, or domination. Yet here Morris speaks of a higher path: to employ one’s unique presence as an instrument for harmony. Mystique, in his words, is the unseen authority that flows not from force, but from character; not from commands, but from the respect a life naturally commands. And what better use of such unseen strength than to spread the seeds of peace, which, though fragile, have the power to outlast the empires built upon war?

Consider the story of Mahatma Gandhi, who clothed himself not in armor or fine robes, but in simple garments woven by his own hands. He bore no weapons, commanded no armies, yet his mystique — the quiet dignity of his being — drew millions to his cause. This mystique was not illusion, but truth revealed: that strength of spirit is greater than strength of sword. And with it, Gandhi furthered the cause of peace, toppling the might of empire without firing a single shot.

So too may each person, in their own measure, cultivate this hidden power. Your mystique may not come from the stage or the pulpit, but from the kindness in your speech, the steadiness of your example, the integrity with which you stand in the face of trial. Every man and woman carries a presence that others feel, whether gentle or harsh, inspiring or destructive. The question then arises: how shall you use the light that emanates from your being? Will you bend it toward selfish ends, or shall you — like Morris — consecrate it to the sacred task of peace?

To choose peace is no weakness. It is the hardest path, for it requires strength restrained, power made humble, and influence used for healing rather than conquest. It is easy to wield one’s mystique for applause, for wealth, for fleeting glory. But to use it for peace is to align with eternity, for peace is the soil in which future generations will thrive. The wars of the past have always burned themselves out, but the peacemakers are remembered as builders of civilizations.

Let the listeners draw this lesson: seek to cultivate not merely talents, but presence. Nurture a mystique born of honesty, compassion, and courage, for such mystique cannot be feigned. When you enter a room, let your very being breathe calm instead of discord, encouragement instead of fear. And when others look to you, however briefly, use that moment to point them toward harmony, not strife. This is the true stewardship of influence.

In practice, begin each day with intention. Ask yourself: how can my words bring healing today? How can my presence soften anger, uplift the weary, or remind another of their worth? Guard against using your gifts to belittle or divide, for such paths may win a moment’s triumph but sow a lifetime of ruin. Instead, wield your mystique as a lamp in the dark, letting your life itself become a testament to peace.

Thus Garrett Morris’ words become more than the reflection of a single man; they are a call to all who walk the earth. Whatever mystique you bear, however small or great, let it be consecrated not to self alone, but to the great and enduring cause of peace. For when the final tales are told, the ones who used their gifts to heal rather than harm will stand as the true heroes of mankind.