I was nominated at first by a group called Justice Democrats.

Hearken, children of the ages, and open your minds to the words of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: “I was nominated at first by a group called Justice Democrats. They were trying to essentially field non-corporate candidates in the 2018 midterm election. They were looking for people with a history of community service, and my name had come across their desk, and they called.” Understand this: destiny often calls not through fanfare or grandeur, but through quiet recognition of service, integrity, and dedication to others. The hand of opportunity rests upon those whose labors have enriched the lives of their communities.

From the annals of antiquity, the ancients understood that leadership is rooted not in wealth or birthright, but in virtue and deeds. The assemblies of Athens, the councils of Rome, and the tribal elders of distant lands selected those who had proven themselves through service, courage, and wisdom. Ocasio-Cortez’s reflection echoes this timeless principle: those who labor for the common good often attract the call to greater responsibility, even when unbidden or unexpected.

Consider the story of the young Cincinnatus of Rome. Though a humble farmer, he was called to defend the Republic when crisis arose. His prior service and reputation of integrity marked him as worthy of trust, and he answered the summons not for personal gain, but for duty. Ocasio-Cortez’s words remind us that recognition often follows consistent engagement in the life of one’s community, a preparation invisible until opportunity arrives.

Even in modern times, the principle persists. Leaders who rise unexpectedly often do so because their actions, integrity, and dedication have drawn the attention of those who seek to cultivate change. Justice Democrats, in their search for non-corporate candidates, were guided not by wealth or pedigree, but by history of community service, a mark of character that signals readiness for responsibility and leadership.

Ocasio-Cortez’s experience illustrates a broader lesson about readiness and vigilance. Opportunity may appear suddenly, like a whisper or a knock, but it finds those prepared by consistent effort and moral dedication. The call from Justice Democrats was not a stroke of luck alone; it was the culmination of a lifetime of engagement, reflection, and action. In this, the ancients would nod in recognition: virtue and service attract destiny.

The lesson is profound: cultivate integrity, labor for the welfare of others, and remain diligent in your pursuits, for these qualities prepare one for moments when responsibility and leadership are offered. Service is both the foundation and the signal, a silent testament that announces readiness when opportunity presents itself. Ocasio-Cortez’s story reminds us that true leadership is earned, not claimed.

Practical action follows naturally. Engage deeply with your community, pursue meaningful work, and dedicate yourself to causes larger than self-interest. Build a record of service and character that may not be immediately recognized, for it is this foundation that attracts the summons to greater endeavors. Like Ocasio-Cortez, the call may come unexpectedly, yet those prepared will answer with courage and wisdom.

Children of the ages, remember this: destiny often favors those who labor quietly for the good of others. Let the words of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez guide your conscience and your actions: serve diligently, cultivate integrity, and remain ready, for the summons to leadership and responsibility may arrive upon those who have proven themselves in service. In this harmony of effort and opportunity lies the timeless path to greatness.