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DAMON AND PYTHIAS

May 2008


There is a great story from the 4th century B.C. that exemplifies charity, humility and courage. It takes place in the Sicilian city-state of Syracuse.

Damon and Pythias had been the best of friends since childhood. Each trusted the other wholeheartedly and each knew in his heart that there was nothing he would not do for his friend. Now the ruler of Syracuse grew annoyed at Pythias for the political speeches that he was giving, announcing that no man should have absolute power in society.

The king summoned Pythias and ordered him to retract his statements or be put to death. Pythias refused. He would retract nothing because he believed that what he was teaching was the truth. “Then you will die”, said the king. “Do you have any last requests?” “Yes. Let me go home just long enough to say goodbye to my wife and children.” The king would have none of it. “I will give you a pledge,” Pythias said.

At that moment Damon spoke up and said that he would remain there in prison until his friend returned. The king was amazed that anyone would be such a friend. He told Damon, “You must suffer the same consequences if your friend does not return on time. You realize this?” “He will keep his word,” Damon replied. “I have no doubt of that.”

So Pythias was allowed to go free for a time. After a few days the king was curious to see if Damon was still totally dedicated to his friend and whether he had regretted his decision. “The winds have kept him from sailing or an accident has delayed him but if it is humanly possible he will be here on time. I am as confident of his virtue as I am of my own existence.”

The appointed day for Pythias’ return had arrived yet Pythias had not. “It seems your friend has not turned up,” the king laughed. “What do you think of him now?” “He is my friend,” Damon answered. “I trust him.” Even as he spoke, the doors flew open, and Pythias staggered into the room. He was pale and bruised as he rushed to the arms of his friend.

“It seemed like everything was against me. My ship was wrecked, I was mugged by thieves … but I refused to give up hope, and at last I’ve made back in time. I am ready to receive my sentence of death.” The king was astonished. He had never seen such dedicated friendship. His eyes and his heart were opened and he changed his mind. “The sentence is revoked,” he declared. “I never believed such faith and loyalty could exist between two men. You have shown me how wrong I was, and it is only right that you have your freedom. But I ask that you do me one favor and teach me how to be a part of so worthy a friendship” (William Bennett, The Book of Virtues, p. 306-308).

  •  Would you do that for anyone on your team? For everyone on your team?
  • Think of times when you have been loyal and dedicated to a friend of yours? 
  • Now think of some ways you can show loyalty and dedication to your team?

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