Gregory Diehl, author of numerous books latest release is The Heroic and Exceptional Minority: A Guide to Mythological Self-Awareness and Growth. A philosophical book where Diehl is expressing his wisdom and what he learnt rather late in life as he puts it. Written for his descendants Diehl generously shares it with the rest of the world. It is particularly interesting for those who are or would embark on a journey of self discovery.

One of the first things that impressed me was how easy I found it to read this book. True it is written in an academic vein yet Diehl has made the effort to write it almost as a story. This makes it easier to absorb the principles Diehl is setting forth. The chapter’s flow easily from one to another. Of course we may not all agree with his principles/thinking. Despite this, most of us will realise that there is a lot of truth in what Diehl proposes.

Diehl suggests that the book is for those who are different from the herd so to speak, the ones who push past the norms of society for a greater good. We’ve all heard of them. History books are full of them though few they may be. They are those that have always felt they are different from society, itching to tear down barriers and cross new boundaries. Consequently, searching for that elusive something. As a believing Christian I couldn’t help but see parallels with the Lords Word(Bible). Diehl’s work differs in that it is one’s own effort as opposed to His Way where one leans on the Lord. Of course an unbeliever is unlikely to understand what I’m saying. A caveat to the newbie believer who may be unaware of the difference. Likewise, with Diehl’s book one might not get what he is suggesting and some may even be offended by what he says.

He does not mean to offend by stating the fact. I gathered that from the tone of the book. Likewise, he is also not suggesting that some are more equal than others. Far from it. He is merely suggesting that while we are all individual and different, some individual’s differences better suit books principles. History demonstrates this to be true. Another important assertion he makes is that this should be only used for good. Ha Diehl is fully aware his powerful message can be abused. Did he garner this wisdom from life’s experiences? May be like me he is aware that history is full of those who were very different from the norm and abused their intelligence and/or charisma to sway whole nations and use their power to bully the rest of society with brutal consequences. Such individuals will rationalise anything. Fortunately, it is the very herd that rose up to quell these dictatorial personas. In the light of this Diehl’s statement to use it for society’s good is provocative and to be remembered constantly when using this self-improvement manual.

Diehl builds his case gradually starting from birth discussing how our role models influenced us. Could that be a problem for us from achieving our heroic ideals? How do we break from the archetypical mould to transcend into our heroic true self? How would we motivate ourselves in this quest? And when we have found our heroic true self how do we keep the flame alive? Do our trials and other emotions like fear have any part to play in this process? Diehl explores all this and more very succinctly. He successfully conveys the premise of his book. I however, can’t help wondering if the younger generation who have careers, family and other equally important responsibilities would be able to find the time to devote to the book’s guiding principles. It comes at a cost and who amongst them would willingly make the sacrifice? Um… the heroic minority comes to mind.

Furthermore, a considerable amount of monitoring is required by anyone who chooses to attempt Diehl’s philosophy. Unfortunately, there is no workbook/diary accompanying the book. The reader I assume, would have to work out their own methodology. Being extensive, it could be confusing.

Cohesively laid out, the narrative style makes it an absorbing read. Is this wisdom a doable? Ultimately it will depend on the individual, if one is the heroic minority. Well I allow the readers to discover this for themselves.

Well done Diehl for an impressive read and thank you for bravely sharing.