I like to ask people about the books they are reading or some of their favorite books so I can expand my thinking and learn something new. One such recommendation came from Nicci Bosco, she runs ultra-marathons, and there is one book that she reads every time she is preparing for a big race.
The book Nicci reads before every race is Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage.
It is the story of Ernest Shackleton and twenty-seven men who, in 1914, attempted to reach the South Pole and cross Antarctica, something no individual had ever done before. Before even arriving to Antarctica the Endurance (his ship) was surrounded by ice and got stuck, never to be released. The story tells of the journey of these men on the polar ice islands and their miraculous return to safety having been out in the snowy wilderness and bitter cold ocean for over 18 months.
The book starts out slow and used a vocabulary I was unfamiliar with but soon I caught on and was gripped by the story. There are two things that struck me upon completing the book.
First, the sheer determination of Shackleton. He had a resilience, grit, and undying determination to return safely. It was clear to me that he felt, if he worked hard enough and showed enough strength, he could overcome anything. Even the dire circumstances they faced in the Antarctic.
Second, the care Shackleton had for his men and the way he demonstrated that care through his leadership. It was not an option to him to lose one man from this expedition. He carefully observed his team of twenty-seven men and acted quickly. When there was a man sowing seeds of doubt, Shackleton would introduce something new or separate certain people to make sure spirits were not poisoned by the doubts. Shackleton made complex decisions, always with the welfare of each of his men in mind. Death on the ice or in the ocean was not an option – he was determined to return every man back to civilization.
I want to improve my determination and care for those who I serve. Shackleton has taught me a few things I hope to always remember. Thank you Nicci for sharing this book and demonstrating determination and care for those you serve.
What are you reading right now? What have you learned from your favorite book?
