I think these movies are as much for people of that time as for

In the timeless story of humanity, we find ourselves not only looking to the past for guidance but also gazing toward the future, seeking wisdom that will help us navigate the challenges yet to come. Kevin Costner, in reflecting on the nature of film, speaks to the universal lessons contained in stories of great leadership: "I think these movies are as much for people of that time as for people who weren't born. For people who weren't born, they see how leaders must act under a crisis situation, not trying to be re-elected or not trying to check polls, that they go from their gut check." In these words, Costner is reminding us that true leadership is timeless—not bound to the moment in which it occurs, but resonating with those who will follow, who will witness history and learn from it.

Consider the great leaders of the ancient world—figures like Alexander the Great, whose actions in the heat of battle were not guided by popular opinion or the whims of political gain, but by an internal compass that pointed to something higher than mere survival or success. Alexander was faced with many crises: the wrath of armies, the loyalty of his men, and the vast unknown of the lands he sought to conquer. But in those moments, he did not turn to the polls or the pressure of re-election; he relied on his gut check, his instinct, and his understanding of honor and purpose. His leadership was not defined by the fleeting concerns of the present, but by a deeper vision of what he believed his people needed. Costner's words echo this ancient wisdom, reminding us that true leadership is not about appealing to the moment, but about standing firm in the face of adversity and making decisions that shape the future.

Much like Alexander, the great leaders of the Roman Empire did not act with their eyes on the next election or the next vote. Julius Caesar, at the height of his power, faced crises that demanded quick and often dangerous decisions. The very nature of Caesar's leadership was built on his ability to think beyond the present moment—to trust his own instinct and resolve in the face of tremendous pressure. This ability to make decisions from a place of inner strength and principle rather than out of fear or desire for political gain is the hallmark of a leader who shapes history, not one who simply reacts to the shifting winds of public opinion. Costner’s view of leadership in film is a reflection of this timeless ideal—the leader who, in a crisis, must act decisively, with courage, and with the long-term good in mind, not with an eye on the polls.

The lesson embedded in Costner's words speaks to something greater than political strategy or personal ambition. It speaks to the moral core of leadership: the ability to make decisions that are guided by a sense of what is right and necessary, rather than what is popular or easy. In the ancient mythologies, we see that heroes, like Odysseus, did not always choose the easiest path. In fact, his journey was marked by countless trials and difficult decisions, all of which had long-term consequences for both his own fate and that of his people. Odysseus’s decisions in times of crisis were not swayed by the opinions of others, but were guided by an inner resolve to honor his duty, his family, and his kingdom.

Costner’s insight also touches on the way in which great art, such as films, serves as a mirror for both the present and the future. These stories are not just for those who live in the moment; they are also for the generations to come, who will look to them for guidance and wisdom. The great epic tales of the past, whether in theater, literature, or film, are not simply records of history, but serve as lessons for those who will inherit the world. Just as the Iliad and the Odyssey taught the ancient world about honor, sacrifice, and leadership, so too do the films of today offer us lessons in how to confront the crises of our time. The leaders who act with integrity and conviction—those who make decisions for the greater good—will always stand out, not because they are popular, but because they are guided by something far deeper than the whim of the moment.

The lesson we must take from Costner's words is clear: in the crisis moments of our own lives, whether in our personal relationships, in our work, or in our roles as leaders in our communities, we must act with courage and integrity. Do not be swayed by what is popular or immediate, but listen to your gut and act from a place of deep conviction. The true measure of leadership lies not in the accolades of the present, but in the legacy you leave for the generations that will follow. Like the great leaders of the past, and like the heroes of ancient myths, our greatest decisions are those that stand firm in the face of adversity and look to the future with wisdom and foresight.

So, as you walk your own path in life, remember that the true test of your leadership will come not in the easy moments, but in the crises that demand you act with courage and integrity. Like the heroes of the ancient world, trust your gut check, listen to your inner voice, and lead not for the applause of the present, but for the greater good that will shape the future. The crises you face will not define you—your response to them will. May you lead with honor, not for the momentary gain, but for the lasting impact of your actions.