Embrace the Storm: Two Latin Mottos for Unwavering Grit

Navigating life can often feel like steering a ship through a tempest. There are moments when the waves crash, and the winds howl, testing our resolve to the limit. In these times, two powerful Latin mottos echo in my mind, serving as a reminder that the path to success is rarely smooth, and perseverance is our most reliable compass.

Through Hardship to the Stars

"Per aspera ad astra" — "through hardship to the stars" isn't just a poetic phrase; it's a profound truth. It speaks to the idea that true achievement, the kind that shines like a star, often demands that we journey through significant difficulties. Think of any great accomplishment, whether personal or public; it's almost always preceded by challenges, setbacks, and moments that push us to our limits. It's in facing these "aspera" (hardships) that we forge the strength and wisdom needed to reach our "astra" (stars).

No Road Impassable for the Tenacious

"Nulla tenaci invia est" — "for the tenacious, no road is impassable" builds on this idea. It celebrates the power of sheer tenacity. When we are truly determined, when we refuse to give up despite the odds, even the most daunting obstacles begin to shrink. This isn't about avoiding difficulties; it's about facing them head-on with an unyielding spirit. For those who possess this unshakeable resolve, every dead end becomes a detour, and every barrier simply another hurdle to overcome.

So, the next time you feel like throwing in the towel, remember these ancient words of wisdom. Success isn't always about finding the easiest route; more often than not, it's about having the strength to push through the tough times and the tenacity to keep going when the path seems blocked. Keep pushing, keep striving, and you'll find that even the most challenging roads can lead you to your desired destination.

Here is a march I composed for my friends in the Royal Swedish Navy Cadet Band using the motto and naval signal flags for Per aspera ad astra. They are tenacious people who really do shoot for the stars!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMY2-qPqGTw