Ring Of Power
I am reading J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring right now as part of my Continuing Scholar work at the Marion E. Wade Center. In the story Gandalf told Frodo, “A Ring of Power looks after itself, Frodo. It may slip off treacherously, but its keeper never abandons it. At most he plays with the idea of handing it on to someone else’s care – and that only at an early stage, when it first begins to grip.” Even though J.R.R. Tolkien did not like the use of allegory or intentionally use allegory, the “Ring of Power” can serve as a powerful metaphor with valuable lessons. For example, it can illustrate the dangers of absolute power and corruption, the importance of humility and restraint, or the idea that what seems to offer power and control can ultimately lead to destruction.
Using the “Ring of Power” as a lesson encourages us to reflect on how the pursuit of power influences behavior and decisions, emphasizing caution, self-awareness, and the need for integrity in leadership and personal choices. Just like the ring and the power the ring possessed were almost impossible to give up, so are the many powers we often possess impossible to give up and become all consuming and fuel a desire for more.
The “Ring of Power” can also symbolize the seductive nature of material possessions and the way they can influence our values and priorities. Just like the ring grants immense power, material things can seem to offer security, status, or happiness. However, they can also become sources of obsession, greed, or distraction from what truly matters. The lesson is to recognize how attachment to material possessions can lead us astray, encourage moderation, and remind us to value inner qualities like integrity, humility, and meaningful relationships over fleeting material wealth. Ultimately, the ring serves as a reminder that true strength and fulfillment come from within, not from external possessions.
Byron's Babbles 
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