Memento homo – translated from the days of the Roman Empire means thou art mortal. Some of you may be familiar with this old phrase if you've seen the 1970's classic "Patton".

         Back in the days of the Roman Empire, Triumphs were a ceremony of the times to publicly honor the military commander of a notably successful foreign war. When we say notable, we mean notable, in fact there were very specific criteria that had to be met for a war to be considered triumphant. One of those criteria includes having to win a war against a foreign nation, because well, civil wars don't count since you don't bring home gold or slaves.

          Now since this is Ancient Rome, when they celebrate it tends to reach a level far surpassing our modern day Super Bowl vicotry parade. Patriot's fans be damned, Ancient Roman ceremony's would typically include a spectacular parade opened up by the chiefs of conquered peoples, wagons of gold and other fine items taken from conquered lands and, musicians, dancers, and any other elaborate or ostentatious items you could possibly dream of.

          The celebrated victor and triumphator would than ride into the city on a grand chariot pulled by two white horses. A slave, kept closely behind, would hold a laurel crown over the triumphators head, though careful not to touch it, would continuously repeat the phrase memento homo in his ear…remember, thou art mortal.   

          As we continue on our journey for the relentless pursuit of excellence it will only be natural that many a accomplishments be attracted to our lives. But no matter how grand the accomplishment, we must always remember, thou art mortal – and so we stay humble, and remain hungry.

 

The views of this blog, podcast, and on this site in general are solely those of the authors, Matt Weaver (NMLS-175651) and Zack Lewis, and do not express the views or opinions of Finance of America Mortgage.