Mankind's common instinct for reality has always held the world to be essentially a theatre for heroism. In heroism, we feel, life's supreme mystery is hidden. We tolerate no one who has no capacity whatever for it in any direction. On the other hand, no matter what a man's frailties otherwise may be, if he be willing to risk death, and still more if he suffer it heroically, in the service he has chosen, the fact consecrates him forever.

Summary

This quote suggests that humans have an innate instinct to perceive the world as a platform for heroic acts. Heroism is seen as a source of great mystery and is highly respected. Individuals without the capability for heroism in any aspect of their lives are not tolerated. On the contrary, a person's weaknesses or shortcomings are overlooked if they willingly and courageously risk their lives or even die heroically in their chosen path of service. Such acts of heroism are believed to bestow everlasting sanctity upon the person.

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