"Hay mercenarios viejos y mercenarios audaces pero no hay mercenarios viejos y audaces"

The heart of the quote points out the wisdom in balancing bravery with caution. It suggests that those who make a living with their sword, who are too bold and reckless, often don't live to a ripe old age. It's a stark reminder that taking excessive risks without prudence can lead to an untimely end.

Picture this: you're living in a medieval world where mercenaries, or sellswords, are common. These warriors for hire are constantly thrust into dangerous situations. Now, if a sellsword is overly daring—charging into battle without a second thought—they might not survive long. On the flip side, a cautious sellsword, who knows when to fight and when to retreat, stands a better chance of growing old.

Take the case of Black Bart, a notorious pirate from the early 18th century. Bart was known for his audacity and fearlessness. He took bold risks and lived a life of thrilling adventures on the high seas. But guess what? His recklessness caught up with him. During a particularly daring raid, he got caught up in a fierce battle and was killed—still relatively young. His boldness was legendary, but it cost him his life.

So how can you apply this nugget of wisdom in your own life? Think about the decisions you make every day. Whether it's in business, personal relationships, or even your hobbies, striking a balance between bravery and caution is key. Imagine you're an entrepreneur. Sure, taking risks can lead to great rewards, but if you dive headfirst into every opportunity without evaluating the risks, you might end up losing everything. Instead, weigh your options. Sometimes it's smarter to take a step back, analyze the situation, and play it safe.

Let's bring it closer to home. Think about a time when you had to make a tough decision—maybe in your career. You might have been offered a job that paid a lot more but came with high risks. You could throw caution to the wind, accept the job, and hope for the best. Or, you could consider the stability of your current position, the potential for growth, and the risks involved in the new role. It's like that old saying, "Look before you leap." Being mindful and making informed decisions doesn't mean you're any less brave; it just means you're smart about it.

Now, let's add a personal touch. Imagine you're chatting with your friend over coffee. They've just told you they're thinking about quitting their stable job to start a new business. They’re excited—super pumped—but also a bit nervous. You'd probably tell them to go for it but remind them to plan carefully. Maybe suggest they start their business as a side hustle first, see how it goes, and gradually transition if things look promising. That way, they're bold but not reckless.

In essence, the wisdom in the quote is timeless. It's about finding that sweet spot between being daring and being sensible. So, next time you're faced with a big decision, think like an old sellsword—brave, yes, but also wise enough to know that sometimes the best move is a strategic retreat.