‘Character is Destiny’

FROM THE EDITOR, RAILWAY AGE DECEMBER 2020: The Greek philosopher Heraclitus, who dates to about 500 B.C., is believed to have originated the quote “character is destiny.” This quote implies that destiny, or fate, is not connected to a predetermined outside force. Rather, one’s future, or destiny, is determined by one’s inner character.

The concept that character is destiny can, I believe, be applied not only to individuals, but also to local communities, nations, businesses—indeed, anyone, or anything, with a purpose. If that purpose is selfless—that is, motivated by some sort of greater purpose or benefit or goodwill; a desire to build and grow by embracing unity and respect and truth—it acquires a lasting legacy.

If the purpose is inherently selfish—that is, motivated by abuse of power; greed; an unhealthy need for attention or even idolatry; the narcissistic desire to prop up one’s inflated ego by tearing down others, by playing the dangerous game of divide and conquer, by suppressing or distorting reality, by spouting incivility, ridicule and lies—it also acquires a lasting legacy. But, more often than not, such legacy is ultimately defined by words and phrases like “nightmare,” “sadness,” “madness,” “dark times” or “when we lost our way, thank goodness temporarily.”

“Character is destiny; John had character,” President-elect Joe Biden said at a 2018 memorial service for the late Sen. John McCain. Biden, a Democrat, stressed that his close friendship with McCain, a Republican, transcended political differences. “John’s code was ageless, is ageless,” Biden said. “Where he parted company with you is if you lacked decency, respect. He couldn’t stand the abuse of power. John was a hero, with character, courage and integrity.”

Character, courage and integrity: These traits define the railway industry, and not just in North America. They have enabled all of us to persevere through arguably the most difficult year in modern history, one defined by a global pandemic and its social, economic, political and emotional fallout. Our industry, with a quiet singularity of purpose that isn’t widely understood and is often underappreciated, continues to do the essential job of moving goods and people in the safest, most efficient way possible. That’s something in which to take pride, to feel good about.

Indeed, our industry continues to clearly and consistently demonstrate that its character defines its destiny.

This issue of Railway Age is my 544th. I feel privileged, even blessed, to be a part of this industry, albeit as an observer/interpreter. Thank you all for your readership, your interest, your patience, your friendship, your criticism, your compliments, your participation, your contributions, and yes, your advertising and marketing dollars. We wouldn’t be around after 164 years without all of the above.

Speaking for all of my colleagues, I wish you all good health, peace and prosperity in 2021. Deep down, I know it’s going to be a better year—far, far better than 2020, and considerably better than the madness we’ve gone through in recent times. Be safe and well. Keep those trains rolling.