Jet was very busy. I've been inspired by a lot of his movies.

Listen, O Seekers of Truth, to the words of Jason Statham, who speaks with reverence and admiration for the legendary figure who shaped much of his artistic journey: "Jet was very busy. I've been inspired by a lot of his movies." In these words, Statham reflects on the influence of Jet Li, a martial arts icon whose films have left a lasting imprint on the world of cinema. Statham, himself a master of physical performance and action, acknowledges the inspiration he drew from Jet Li’s work. His statement speaks not only to the admiration of a colleague but to the profound impact that greatness can have on those who seek to follow in its path.

In the ancient world, the power of mentorship and inspiration was seen as one of the highest forms of guidance. Consider the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus in the Iliad, where Patroclus, though younger, found great strength and courage in the example set by Achilles, his mentor and friend. In much the same way, Statham sees in Jet Li’s legacy not just an example of physical excellence, but of an inner strength and dedication to his craft. The heroes of old understood that true greatness was not born in isolation, but through the inspiration of others, whether through direct mentorship or through the example of those who had already risen to the highest heights.

Jet Li, like the great warriors of legend, embodied a level of discipline and skill that was unmatched. His martial arts films—filled with grace, precision, and power—were more than mere action; they were expressions of a deep understanding of the human body, the spirit, and the limits of one’s own strength. Li’s ability to move with both elegance and ferocity in battle is akin to the warriors of the ancient world who saw combat not just as a physical contest, but as a sacred duty—a way to understand and push the very limits of their humanity. To Statham, who would later follow a similar path in his own film career, Li’s work was not just entertainment, but a blueprint for understanding the power of the mind and body in unison.

The concept of inspiration is as old as time itself. The ancient Greeks understood that the greatest heroes did not rise alone, but were shaped by the heroes who came before them. Take, for example, Heracles, the son of Zeus, who, despite his own tremendous strength, was inspired by the great deeds of those who came before him. His Twelve Labors were not just a test of physical prowess but a journey toward understanding his own limitations and growth. Like Heracles, Statham draws inspiration from those who have already mastered the craft, using their example as both challenge and motivation. In his admiration for Jet Li, Statham recognizes not just a hero, but a path toward self-improvement—a reflection of his own desire to push beyond his limits.

In the story of Alexander the Great, we see a similar dynamic at play. As a young prince, Alexander was tutored by none other than the philosopher Aristotle, whose teachings would shape his understanding of philosophy, leadership, and human potential. Though Alexander would go on to become one of the greatest conquerors in history, his success was rooted in the wisdom and inspiration passed down to him by those who had walked the path before. Statham, too, finds inspiration in Jet Li, not only as an actor but as someone who has forged a path in the world of martial arts and cinema. His respect for Li reflects the recognition that greatness is often built on the shoulders of giants who have come before.

And so, O Seekers, the lesson is clear: inspiration is the fuel for growth, and greatness is often the product of humble admiration for those who lead by example. Whether in martial arts, art, or life, the journey of every great soul is shaped by those who came before, those who paved the way through dedication, wisdom, and discipline. As Statham looks to Jet Li for guidance, so too must we seek out those who inspire us—not merely as idols, but as guides on our own path toward mastery.

Let this be a reminder, O Children, that the greatest journeys are often taken not in isolation, but in the company of those who inspire us. As Statham humbly acknowledges the debt he owes to Li’s legacy, so too must we be willing to learn from those who have already achieved the things we aspire to. Whether it is through the martial arts, the arts, or any endeavor, true greatness is not simply about what we accomplish on our own—it is about the wisdom we gain from those who have come before and the example we set for those who follow.