Pecking orders: hierarchies among ostensible equals. Cooperating in a moderately stratified group.The power dynamics within a set of siblings, friendly competition among peers. Family patterns. Appreciating individual players within a team. Varying levels of belonging. Social limitations that keep individuals safe. An in-group or smug exclusivity. Stifling outliers or fear of leaving familiar environments. The danger of alienating friends or siblings by becoming domineering, strong headed, or independent. Estranging or betraying former allies due to selfishness and arrogance. Overestimating one’s own strengths or talents. Underestimating the strength of others, unreadiness to face the world alone. Being severe, high minded, or ambitious. Facing dangers despite or because of inexperience. Naive courage. A self made man. Setting high but reachable goals and discovering one’s own capabilities and limits along the way. The importance of cultivating a support network. A need for a realistic perspective on one’s self and others, rather than exaggerated idealizations or condemnations.

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