Learning in War-Time

I was not present for the class discussion on this reading today, but I still think have few good insights to offer. Early on in the essay Lewis writes that "But to a Christian the true tragedy of Nero must be not that he fiddles while the city was on fire but that he fiddles on the brink of hell." (1) At first this is a somewhat confusing statement, but we need to understand it. While both situations are the same, it is our focus that matters. We need not be concerned with earthly things or situations, even though it would be hard not to focus on a burning city around you. We should not be thinking about the end of life as we know it, but instead we should think about what's next. Hopefully, when that time comes we have no doubt and not be afraid. However, in Nero's case, I wonder if he had any thoughts about what his final destination would be.
Later on Lewis states that "The only people who achieve much are those who want knowledge so badly that they seek it while the conditions are still unfavorable." (4) That is so true, and everyone knows it simply from observation of successful people we know. You cannot just sit around on your but and expect some grand opportunity to fall into your lap eventually. Sure that works out for some people, but that approach to life does not work out for the vast majority of those who use it. People need to remember that they do not deserve anything, and that there is no situation that can be used as an excuse for poor circumstances. It's time for everyone to wake up and realize that sometimes life isn't fair and give up their egos. You get out of life and relationships what you put into them. If you work hard enough for something, you will likely get what you desire.