You Become What You Behold

In a world saturated with constant streams of images, headlines, notifications, and instant gratifications, the timeless wisdom, “you become what you behold,” carries a profound resonance. Our minds are shaped by the very things we choose to observe, absorb, and internalize. What we gaze upon deeply influences our thoughts, actions, character, and ultimately, our destiny.

Consider the life of a soldier who, through necessity, becomes fixated on the chaos and violence of war. Over time, the constant exposure to conflict can mold perceptions, behaviors, and even the fundamental beliefs about humanity itself. The lens through which one views life—particularly when clouded by negativity—can transform one’s outlook, making cynicism or disillusionment almost inevitable.

Conversely, the soldier who, despite adversity, consciously focuses on the camaraderie, heroism, and sacrifices that illuminate the battlefield, cultivates resilience, empathy, and an enduring faith in human dignity. This soldier’s vision defines their spirit and purpose beyond mere survival or duty.

This principle transcends the military experience. In civilian life, continuous exposure to divisive media, sensationalism, and digital outrage gradually erodes patience, empathy, and civility, replacing them with anxiety, suspicion, and animosity. Our digital diet, just like our nutritional one, has tangible effects on our mental and emotional well-being.

Yet, by actively seeking narratives of courage, kindness, and unity—even amid turmoil—we reinforce values that strengthen communities, restore faith, and foster peace. We become creators of hope rather than passive consumers of despair.

Ultimately, to behold consciously and purposefully is to choose the nature of our becoming. Whether soldier or civilian, we wield immense power in selecting the stories, values, and virtues that shape our identity and legacy. In this intentional act of beholding, we find our greatest agency and most profound responsibility. You choose what you behold. Therefore you choose what you become.

What are you “beholding?”

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Charles served over 27 years in the US Army, which included seven combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan with various Special Operations Forces units and two stints as an instructor at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He also completed operational tours in Egypt, the Philippines, and the Republic of Korea and earned a Doctor of Business Administration from Temple University as well as a Master of Arts in International Relations from Yale University. He is the owner of The Havok Journal, and the views expressed herein are his own and do not reflect those of the US Government or any other person or entity.

As the Voice of the Veteran Community, The Havok Journal seeks to publish a variety of perspectives on a number of sensitive subjects. Unless specifically noted otherwise, nothing we publish is an official point of view of The Havok Journal or any part of the U.S. government.