Nature of Man

It’s part of the nature of man to start with romance and build to a reality. — Ray Bradbury.

Yesterday, I wrote about my anniversary, but like the day after my wedding day fifty-four years ago, a marriage really begins the following day. In the reality of building a life together.

Ray Bradbury’s  observation, encapsulates a fundamental aspect of the human experience. It isn’t just about the sparks, but what follows that underpins creation, discovery, and personal growth.

Bradbury’s statement speaks to the powerful role of idealism as a catalyst for action. Before anything tangible can exist, it often begins as an idea, a vision, or even a romanticized notion. Think of an inventor who dreams of a device that can change the world, a scientist who envisions unlocking a new understanding of the universe, or an artist who sees a masterpiece in their mind’s eye. This initial “romance” isn’t about fleeting infatuation, but rather a deep-seated passion, an optimistic belief in what could be, even if the path to getting there is unclear.

This “romance” provides the initial motivation and inspiration. It’s the fuel that ignites the engine of progress, pushing individuals to move beyond the comfortable and known into the realm of possibility. Without this initial spark, many ambitious endeavors would never even begin. However, the “reality” truly begins the day after. The romanticized idea must then confront the practicalities, the challenges, and the sustained effort required to bring it to fruition. This is where perseverance, resilience, and collaboration (when applicable) become paramount.

The “reality” phase is often less glamorous than the initial dream, demanding grit and determination. Yet, it is precisely in this phase that true value is created and lasting achievements are forged.

After seventy-seven years, I still embrace the ability to dream and, more importantly, to build those dreams into reality. The ability to envision a future, to find the “romance” in a new endeavor, and then to commit to the disciplined work of making it real, is a testament to an enduring spirit. We see examples every day.

What new “romance” are you dreaming up these days?

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About the author

Webb Hubbell is the former Associate Attorney General of The United States. His novels, When Men Betray, Ginger Snaps, A Game of Inches, The Eighteenth Green, and The East End are published by Beaufort Books and are available online or at your local bookstore. When Men Betray won one of the IndieFab awards for best novel in 2014. Ginger Snaps and The Eighteenth Green won the IPPY Awards Gold Medal for best suspense/thriller. His latest, “Light of Day” will be on the bookstands soon.