Great Pyramids of Egypt and beer
Pyramids- and maybe beer: What can they teach us about embracing difficult situations as a gateway to personal growth, resilience, and a positive outlook.
Preface
While mulling over these thoughts for the past few months, my mind often wanders to the profound differences in human existence thousands of years ago. Appreciating the historical context of ancient Egyptian society is like embracing a mix of extraordinary (epic) achievements and eyebrow-raising deviations from what we consider modern values. Rooted in a foundation of service to the state, later entangled with religion and the living deity that was the pharaoh, the societal structure of ancient Egypt was complex, and its functioning involved elements that, by today’s standards, are unfathomable.
Central to the functioning of this civilization was the institution of state-driven service, where individuals were often bound to roles assigned by the state, including the use of forced labor and slavery resulting from military conquests. While these aspects are undoubtedly troubling and starkly at odds with modern ethical standards, it is crucial to approach them with historical context and acknowledge that societal norms and values have done some serious evolving over the centuries.
Egyptian Pyramids
The historical records of ancient Egypt provide unique glimpses into the personal lives and individual thinking of its people. The meticulous and arguably unparalleled documentation, ranging from the detailed accounts of daily life to the profound insights found in literature and poetry, offers a fascinating window into the minds of individuals navigating a society vastly different from our own. These records reveal not only the grandeur of monumental constructions and achievements but also the intimate details of personal relationships, religious beliefs, and the pursuit of happiness and knowledge.
I have been blessed with a very productive career in community development. I’ve had some good luck mixed in with a lot of hard work. My academic studies at the VCU Urban Planning Dept played a crucial role in preparing me for this path. Just to provide some context, community development professionals are trained (if its not already a personal goal) to actively engage and collaborate with the public, making it a rewarding career. However, the global pandemic dramatically altered the landscape of my professional journey. Reflecting on that period, I realize I was entirely unprepared for such an unprecedented situation. Consequently, I encountered significant challenges and felt like I hit a professional roadblock—essentially, I perceived it as a failure.
But I was mistaken.
Difficult situations, often viewed with trepidation and fear, have been an intrinsic part of the human experience throughout history. Paradoxically, it is in moments of extreme challenge that individuals discover profound insights about themselves, develop resilience, and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. These situations test an individual’s resolve, challenging their commitment to a goal or a vision.
It separates those who are merely interested from those who are truly committed. The process of overcoming a challenging situation demands perseverance, determination, and a belief in one’s capabilities.
In the rich tapestry of our 5-millennium of recorded history, inspiration blooms from the lessons of challenging situations. As someone who eagerly dives into the annals of ancient African and Middle Eastern history, I find myself drawn to the captivating story of the Egyptians. Beyond their somewhat morbid fascination with death, the ancient Egyptians unfold as a historical masterpiece, showcasing how embracing challenges can pave the way for a life that’s more celebratory and filled with gratitude.
The ancient Egyptians, renowned for their fixation on the afterlife, paradoxically lived life with a profound understanding of its impermanence. While their monumental pyramids and elaborate burial rituals suggest a preoccupation with death, this cultural attitude towards the finite nature of life encouraged the Egyptians to embrace the present fully. Instead of succumbing to existential dread, they celebrated life, recognizing that each day was a gift.
Based on historical writings, the Egyptians understood the transient nature of existence, and this awareness fueled a vibrant and appreciative approach to life. The concept of Ma’at, central to Egyptian philosophy, emphasized balance, harmony, and truth. Failing a difficult situation, viewed as a deviation from Ma’at, was an opportunity for self-reflection and correction rather than an irreversible condemnation. This perspective allowed individuals to approach life with a sense of purpose, contributing to the overall prosperity of their society.
The modern fear of difficult situations is often rooted in societal expectations, perfectionism, and a misconception that missteps equate to personal inadequacy. However, history teaches us that even the most advanced civilizations embraced challenges as an integral part of progress. The Egyptians’ pursuit of idealism in constructing pyramids (spoiler alert- aliens were not involved!) is a testament to their commitment to long-term goals. Over thousands of years, they dedicated themselves to perfecting the art of pyramid building, showcasing an unwavering resolve and a willingness to learn from failures along the way.
Did You Know: Some of the most famous collapsed pyramids were built AFTER the Giza pyramids? The construction needed to build these was a monumental undertaking, often spanning multiple generations. Spoiler alert- no aliens were involved. Despite the challenges and setbacks associated with building these colossal structures, the Egyptians displayed remarkable perseverance. The desire to leave a lasting legacy, coupled with a deep cultural and religious significance attached to pyramid construction, may have fueled their commitment to continue building even after experiencing setbacks.
In essence, the commitment to a full life could be reflected in the Egyptians’ dedication to legacy and achieving greatness, not only in the architectural marvels they left behind but als in their personal lives. The construction of later pyramids, even in the face of failures, showcases a determination to contribute to a society’s cultural and historical richness, leaving an enduring mark for generations to come.
Understanding the positive facets of challenging situations and setbacks requires a shift in perspective. Setbacks are not indicative of personal worth but are opportunities for growth and learning. The ancient Egyptians, with their emphasis on balance and truth, recognized that navigating the complexities of life required a willingness to confront difficult circumstances openly. Acknowledging challenges became a pathway to personal development, fostering resilience and contributing to a more enriching and celebratory existence.
In contemporary psychology, the concept of a growth mindset aligns with the lessons learned from historical civilizations like the Egyptians. A growth mindset perceives challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement. Embracing a growth mindset enables individuals to view difficulties not as insurmountable obstacles but as stepping stones towards personal and professional development in the journey of a well-lived life.
Moreover, encountering setbacks fosters humility, an essential trait for personal growth. When individuals face adversity, they are compelled to reevaluate their assumptions, beliefs, and approaches. This self-reflection is a humbling process that encourages openness to alternative perspectives, collaboration, and the acknowledgment that one’s understanding is always evolving.
In essence, setbacks act as a catalyst for resilience, shaping an individual’s ability to bounce back from challenging situations and navigate the uncertainties of life. The ancient Egyptians’ celebration of life, guided by their belief system surrounding death, serves as an enduring example of how acknowledging the impermanence of existence can lead to a more profound appreciation for each moment.
…and maybe beer(?)
Another Fun Fact: When you spend 5-6 thousand years in one neighborhood, you end up bumping elbows with your neighbors a few times. The Sumerians (located around modern day Iraq & Iran) were one of Egypts greatest adversaries. Their relationship, sometimes lethal, is legendary. During the good times (we are talking hundreds of years), they lived peacefully, traded ideas and commerce, and evolved together. One of the most significant collabs, IMHO, was beer. Greek historians credit the invitation of beer to Egypt. But, that may have been because they liked Egyptian brews compared to other claimants to inventing beer – the Sumerians. Sumerian beer, based on historical records and modern attempts at recreating it, was thick and chunky. Mmm, mmm. Perfect for a hot day on the river. Egyptian beer was much closer to what you can buy at your local convenience store- if you’re 21. The oldest brewery discovered to date was a 5000 (est) year old brewery in Abydos. Abydos was a sacred city, religious center, and government hub for its region. Where else would place a massive local brewery with a capacity to produce 53,000 12oz bottles per batch? Go Egypt!
Abydos Alewerks: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-56067717
In the expansive tapestry of human history and the captivating stories of ancient civilizations, we uncover not just the intricacies of beer collaborations but also profound lessons in resilience and adaptation. Much like the ancient Egyptians who confronted setbacks and celebrated triumphs in perfecting their place on earth, the narrative of our own lives intertwines with the advantages of facing challenges. The fallen pyramids, urging generations to rebuild, stand as monuments to the enduring pursuit of excellence despite adversities. In this context, setbacks emerge as catalysts for growth, self-discovery, and a heightened appreciation for life’s celebratory moments.
As we raise a glass in the spirit of those who dared to embrace challenges and strive for excellence, let us acknowledge that a full and meaningful life is intricately shaped by our ability to learn and evolve. Similar to the architects of the ancient pyramids who absorbed the lessons of each setback, we too can relish the diverse flavors that challenges, failures, and successes alike bring to our personal tapestries. Here’s to the pursuit of a life well-lived, complete with its triumphs, challenges, and, of course, a good beer in hand.
The benefits of facing challenges extend far beyond the immediate discomfort they bring. Challenges serve as indispensable teachers, guiding individuals towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more celebratory outlook on life. With an understanding of our collective future, there is much to be learned from our rich yet complicated human history. If we heed the lessons embedded in our challenges and incorporate them into our journey forward, we might envision a society with an enduring legacy reminiscent of Egypt.
It’s awe-inspiring (at least for me) to reflect on the fact that Cleopatra lived in closer proximity to the moment Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone than to the construction of the massive Pyramids of Giza in her backyard. As we navigate the complexities of our present, one can only hope that, like the ancient Egyptians, we can live our lives to the fullest and collectively lay claim to a similar enduring significance, marked by the wisdom gained from both successes and challenges.
Cheers to embracing the journey, learning from the past, and creating a legacy that withstands the test of time.