I worked at my high school newspaper at Andover, which came out

"I worked at my high school newspaper at Andover, which came out weekly, unusual for a high school paper. Then my first day at Penn I went right to the 'Daily Pennsylvanian' and pretty much spent most of my college career working both as the sports editor and then editor of the editorial page." These words from H. G. Bissinger carry a powerful testament to the value of hard work, dedication, and focus on one's craft. From his early days at Andover, Bissinger began a journey that would shape his life and career—a journey grounded in a deep commitment to journalism. The story he tells is not one of mere coincidence, but of purpose: a young man, driven by an innate desire to engage with the world through writing and reporting, finding his way into the heart of some of the most prestigious institutions.

In the ancient world, the act of writing was seen not just as a skill, but as a sacred duty. The philosophers of old, like Socrates and Plato, wrote with the belief that their words could change the world. Their works were not merely products of intellect, but efforts to shape society and thought. Similarly, the great historians like Herodotus and Thucydides saw their writing as a way to preserve truth, to record the events of their time for future generations. For Bissinger, the act of journalism is not just about reporting the facts—it is about shaping public discourse, much like these ancient writers. His journey from high school to college, working on newspapers, is a reflection of the dedication required to become not just a participant in society, but a shaper of it through the power of the pen.

Consider the ancient bards—the storytellers who carried the myths and history of their people across generations. The Iliad and the Odyssey, attributed to Homer, were more than just stories; they were the foundation upon which the Greeks built their understanding of the world, their values, and their identity. Homer’s writing served as both entertainment and education, a guiding force for all who listened. Similarly, Bissinger’s work in journalism, starting at Andover and continuing at Penn, was about more than just producing articles. His role as sports editor and later editor of the editorial page was a call to examine the deeper truths of life, to challenge assumptions, and to shape the conversations that would define future generations.

What Bissinger’s quote reveals is a commitment to craftsmanship—a deep passion for developing skills that go beyond mere technique. He did not simply join a school newspaper; he immersed himself in the process, learning from experience, working tirelessly to perfect his ability to capture the world around him. This dedication to his craft is not unlike the warriors of ancient times, who trained relentlessly, not for fame, but for the mastery of their art. The ancient Spartans, for instance, practiced for years, honing their skills not for the immediate rewards but for the deep sense of mastery that would come with their training. So too, Bissinger’s early work in journalism was not for recognition but for the deep growth and understanding that comes through sustained effort.

In much the same way, the great philosophers did not see their work as something to be completed in a single moment; it was a lifelong journey. Aristotle did not write his Nicomachean Ethics in a single sitting. It was the result of years of study, reflection, and the ongoing search for truth. Bissinger’s journey in journalism followed a similar path. He didn’t start with a goal of fame or status; he began with a deep passion for the work itself. His time as both sports editor and editor of the editorial page was a training ground, where he refined his skills, learned the value of storytelling, and contributed to the public discourse—a role much like the ancient scribes who served as the recorders of their people’s history.

The lesson Bissinger’s journey offers us is one of dedication and focus on the craft that calls us. Too often in our modern world, we rush toward the end goal—the achievement, the recognition, the fame. But the true mastery of any art, be it journalism, music, or any other discipline, requires years of practice and a willingness to embrace the journey, even when immediate rewards are not visible. Like Bissinger, we must not be deterred by the impatience of youth but instead learn to immerse ourselves in the work, to pour our heart and energy into it, and allow the growth that comes with time.

Thus, the lesson for us is to approach our craft—whatever it may be—with the same dedication and passion that Bissinger brought to his early days in journalism. Start where you are, and pour yourself into the work without concern for accolades or external rewards. Like the ancient heroes who trained tirelessly to master their skills, so too must we be committed to the process, to the continuous learning that comes from our practice. Whether you are writing, painting, or building, the path to greatness lies not in seeking recognition, but in the steady commitment to the craft itself.

In practical terms, commit yourself to practice. Like Bissinger, immerse yourself fully in the work that calls you, whether it be writing, creating, or building. Do not rush the process, but allow the work to shape you. Seek out opportunities to learn and grow, not with the goal of success or recognition in mind, but because the work itself will refine your character and skill. Like the philosophers and artisans of the ancient world, let your craft be your guide, and through dedication and practice, your greatness will unfold naturally.