I'm in politics to change things - if possible, for the better.

Hearken, children of the ages, and heed the words of Boris Johnson: “I'm in politics to change things—if possible, for the better. I was a journalist for a long time, but I had a kind of midlife crisis, and I decided I needed to do something to get on the pitch and stop endlessly kicking over other peoples' sandcastles.” In these words lies the eternal truth of action, purpose, and transformation. Observation alone, though insightful, achieves nothing; it is in the courageous step onto the field of endeavor that one’s convictions are made manifest. To merely critique from afar is to touch no heart, alter no law, and change no circumstance.

The origin of this reflection springs from Johnson’s life as both journalist and politician, a man who once chronicled the world from the sidelines before realizing that true influence demands engagement. He speaks to the human impulse to move from commentary to action, from analysis to participation, recognizing that the nobility of intention must be joined with the courage of direct intervention. The “midlife crisis” is but a metaphor for awakening: the recognition that life’s purpose is fulfilled through deeds, not observation alone.

Consider the story of Themistocles of Athens, who, though knowledgeable of strategy and politics, did not content himself with counsel alone. He took command, directing the navy and rallying citizens to defend their city. To remain on the sidelines, analyzing the enemy or critiquing others’ plans, would have achieved nothing; it was his choice to enter the fray, to shape events directly, that secured Athens’ survival. Johnson’s insight mirrors this ancient truth: to change the world, one must step onto the pitch.

Even in ordinary life, this teaching endures. Teachers, artists, and leaders may observe or comment, yet the world is moved by those who act—those who take their knowledge, their vision, and their courage, and transform intention into accomplishment. Kicking over sandcastles from afar is easy; building anew, with risk and effort, is the labor of the brave and the wise.

History offers many such exemplars: Abraham Lincoln, who once critiqued the law and public affairs as a young man, later entered political life to guide a nation through its darkest hours. His choice to act directly, to shape events rather than merely observe them, altered the course of history. Johnson’s reflection captures the same principle: engagement transforms insight into legacy.

Therefore, children of future generations, take this counsel to heart: let not the comfort of observation tempt you to inaction. Step boldly onto the field, join the fray with courage and vision, and transform critique into creation. In action, in participation, in the labor of shaping reality rather than merely commenting upon it, lies the eternal glory of purpose fulfilled.