Blackbeard and the Skull and Bones Image

Piracy is surprisingly cerebral. The captain of the pirate ship fires cannons to capture the enemy. But too much damage and the ship is damaged, inoperable, or even worse, sinks. Also, the attacker can suffer damages, possibly fatal, to their own ship. And, there are no guarantees of victory. The captain has to play out numerous scenarios, the potential repercussions of each all the while weighing each actions costs and benefits. Piracy is harder than it looks. 

Blackbeard, the famous pirate, was physically imposing, cruel, bloodthirsty, daring, and quite successful. However, his success did not always derive from his stereotypical pirate skills. Rather, Blackbeard was able to strike fear into the hearts of his targets. He used his head to get to his enemies hearts. Blackbeard often captured ships without firing a single shot. How? 

Blackbeard originated the skull and crossbones symbol. He would menacingly fly that black and white flag and when the opposing ship saw it, the crew (and probably the captain) were all filled with fear. Surrender was the best option.

Blackbeard used his cerebral skills of design to intimidate his enemy; the opposing ship was paralyzed. Blackbeard used his head to weigh his options and act accordingly, but he also knew heart and how that would impact the other ship. The lesson for us is to know our own head and heart, use them appropriately depending on the circumstances, and understand another’s heart and head.