Extraordinary Times: What You Consume Determines What You Become—The Story of Raynaud III

The coronavirus pandemic has caused us to look inward and outward in examining our lives. And, when you do this examination on a foundation of uncertainty it can make you feel worse, not better. But there is something you can examine. And, maybe there is some positive action you can take.

As we go through life, we all have appetites that we feel we must satisfy. It can be recreation, money, love, food, solitude, exercise, etc. So, what are your appetites? In my personal business coaching, which can involve personal development training, self-improvement training, leadership and personal growth and development coaching, I am always looking for appetites. What we have an appetite for will guide us to where we spend most of our focus and energy. And, very often, if we just alter that energy and focus, that appetite some, amazing improvements can take place.

At a time like this with the new and unsettling coronavirus that in many cases is having a catastrophic impact medically and economically, it is a good time to examine our appetites to see what we must modify or eliminate to survive and ultimately thrive.

The following is a true story.

Raynaud III was a 14th century duke in what is now Belgium. Raynaud was known by his Latin nickname, Crassus, which means fat.

After a violent quarrel, his younger brother Edward led a successful revolt against him. Edward captured Raynaud but did not kill him. Instead, he took him to a castle and built a room around him. Raynaud could regain his title and property as soon as he left the room. None of the windows and doors were locked or barred. They were normal sized windows and doors. The problem was Raynaud’s size. He couldn’t fit through them.

And each day Edward sent a variety of delicious food to Raynaud in the room. When Edward was accused of cruelty, he would answer: “My brother is not a prisoner. He may leave when he wills.”

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