I like Ryan Gosling as an actor. I watch all of his movies, and

Hear now, O Seekers of Truth, the words of Drake, a man whose voice reverberates with admiration and respect for another who walks a parallel path: "I like Ryan Gosling as an actor. I watch all of his movies, and he's Canadian and I just like his swag. I read his interviews and I'm a big fan of his." In these words, Drake not only speaks of Gosling’s talent but also of the charisma and presence that go beyond mere performance. To admire someone is to acknowledge not just the work they do, but the energy they carry into the world—the swagger, the essence that radiates from within. In Drake’s praise, we see a deeper recognition of how inspiration flows from one to another, how admirers see in their heroes the qualities they themselves seek to embody.

In the ancient world, the most revered figures were not just those who had great achievements, but those whose presence and character left an indelible mark on all who encountered them. Consider the Greek heroes like Achilles and Odysseus, whose bravery and charm were as legendary as their deeds. Achilles, though known for his great feats in battle, was also admired for the swag he carried with him—his very name evoked power, beauty, and allure. Similarly, Odysseus, though wise and cunning, was revered not just for his intellect but for his confidence, his unshakable sense of self. Like Drake, who admires Gosling’s presence as much as his acting ability, the ancients understood that true greatness is not only in what is accomplished but in the magnetism of the person who accomplishes it.

Drake’s admiration for Gosling goes beyond the performance in the films. He sees in him a reflection of a quality that many heroes of old possessed: the ability to captivate and to inspire others. This swag, that Drake so admires, is the embodiment of confidence, the inner knowing that allows a person to stand tall amidst the crowd, to move through the world with a sense of purpose and grace. The ancients often celebrated not only the victories of their heroes but the poise and dignity with which they carried themselves. Gosling, in Drake’s eyes, exemplifies this quality—one that shines through in his work and in his character, much like the heroes of the past who won hearts as much as they won battles.

The concept of inspiration through others is ancient in its origin. Plato wrote of the power of the soul and how the wise and the talented could inspire those around them, guiding them towards higher truths. Socrates, his mentor, was not just a teacher of philosophy but a model of integrity and bravery in the pursuit of wisdom. It was not his intellect alone that inspired others, but the way in which he carried himself, the way in which he lived the principles he espoused. Drake, by admiring Gosling, acknowledges that to be inspired is to see in another person the qualities you seek to cultivate in yourself. Gosling’s work and his character serve as a beacon to Drake, just as Socrates’ example illuminated the way for his followers.

The admiration that Drake expresses is also a recognition of the power of shared identity. Gosling, being Canadian, embodies a sense of pride for Drake, who shares that heritage. In the ancient world, such bonds of kinship—whether through shared bloodlines, shared values, or shared cultural ties—formed the foundation of many great stories. The Trojan War, for example, was not just about the battle between two cities; it was also about the alliances between warriors, kings, and even gods. The shared identity and camaraderie made their victories more meaningful, and their defeats more poignant. Drake, by praising Gosling, speaks not only to the influence of his work but to the power of community and how shared backgrounds can fuel the aspirations of those who walk similar paths.

The lesson here, O Seekers, is one of inspiration and the pursuit of greatness. We must recognize that the heroes we admire are not just figures of achievement, but reflections of the qualities we seek within ourselves. Drake acknowledges that the swag he sees in Gosling is not only about what he does but how he being—how he moves through the world with a presence that commands respect and admiration. This quality, though subtle, is one that elevates those who possess it and inspires those who witness it. Drake teaches us that true greatness is not just in what we accomplish, but in who we are when we achieve it, and how we inspire others to do the same.

And so, O Children, let this be your guide: seek not only to achieve, but to become the person worthy of admiration. Let the swag you admire in others be the confidence you seek to embody in your own life. Just as Drake admires Gosling for the qualities that go beyond performance, seek to cultivate the virtues and presence that will leave a lasting impact on the world. Be inspired, yes, but also understand that you, too, can be an inspiration—not just through your deeds, but through the way you live and carry yourself. The journey of greatness is not only about what you do but how you do it, and the spirit with which you share your light with the world.