The X is an amazing car, but we kind of got carried away with

Hearken, O seeker of wisdom, to the words of Elon Musk, who in the fullness of labor and triumph did confess: “The X is an amazing car, but we kind of got carried away with the art and technology. Obviously, you want great art. You want great technology. But we did get a little distracted from our mission, which was to advance the cause of electric vehicles. And it probably delayed us a little bit with the Model 3 as well.” Thus is revealed the ancient struggle between the brilliance of creation and the steadfastness of purpose.

In these words, the master of Tesla speaks of the Model X, a chariot of splendor, adorned with doors that opened to the heavens and laden with marvels of invention. Yet though it was wondrous, its greatness came at a cost. For the heart of his endeavor was not to craft a spectacle, but to bring forth the Model 3, a more humble yet world-changing vessel—accessible to the many, not only to the few. Thus, Musk warns us: when one is dazzled by the gleam of artistry and intoxicated by the power of technology, the path to the true mission may falter.

Consider, O listener, the tale of the Athenians who built the Parthenon. In their desire to exalt their goddess Athena, they poured immense treasure and labor into its perfect columns and luminous marble. The beauty endures to this day, yet in their pursuit of magnificence, resources that might have strengthened their fleet or nourished their citizens were diverted. And when Sparta pressed upon them in war, the Athenians—though rich in art—stood weakened in strength. So too does Musk recall that though art and science are noble, when they eclipse the mission, they may sap the strength of what is most essential.

Yet do not mistake his lament for disdain. For he proclaims still: “You want great art. You want great technology.” Indeed, beauty and invention are gifts of the divine, without which life would be barren. The wisdom lies not in denying them, but in holding them with balance, as a charioteer holds the reins—guiding them toward the road of destiny, and not allowing them to pull the carriage astray.

There is heroism in such discipline. Recall the story of Marcus Aurelius, emperor and philosopher. Surrounded by luxuries of empire, he wrote in his Meditations that one must not be seduced by marble halls or gilded statues, but must attend to duty, justice, and the service of mankind. In the same spirit, Musk reminds us that the mission was not the car itself, but the cause of electric vehicles, the great struggle to free humanity from the bondage of fossil fuels.

Thus, what lesson shall we, who walk in later days, draw from these words? That in our own lives, we too may become ensnared by the glitter of side-quests, mistaking them for the great calling of our soul. Whether in our work, our studies, or our dreams, there will ever be temptations to perfect the minor while neglecting the vital. Beware the trap of the unnecessary flourish when the true battle still awaits.

Let each person, then, mark these teachings upon their heart. Ask yourself daily: What is my mission? What is the true cause to which my life must bend? Pursue beauty and innovation, but let them serve the mission, not consume it. When tempted to polish endlessly, remind yourself that progress is greater than perfection, and that a vision unfulfilled serves no one.

Therefore, O child of tomorrow, walk forward with clarity. Create, invent, and adorn, but never lose sight of your purpose. For the world is not changed by splendor alone, but by steadfast deeds carried to their completion. And in this lies the essence of wisdom: to know when to marvel, and when to march.