Bear Grylls Honoured by LawSoc: A Lesson in Courage, Kindness, and Resilience
Bear Grylls, the renowned adventurer, survivalist, and television personality, visited Trinity College Dublin's Law Society today, captivating students in a memorable event held at the iconic GMB Debating Chamber. Grylls was honoured with the prestigious Allii Proelio award, established by former Chancellor and distinguished Trinity alumna Mary Robinson. This accolade recognises individuals who have significantly broadened perspectives and inspired others through their lives and actions.
Known globally for his extraordinary feats—ranging from scaling Mount Everest to his tireless advocacy for the scouting movement—Bear Grylls embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. Addressing a packed audience, Grylls shared insightful anecdotes drawn from his thrilling adventures around the world, underpinned by the three core principles he steadfastly lives by: "Be brave, be kind, and be a never give up-er."
These simple yet powerful lessons resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting how courage and kindness go hand in hand. Grylls emphasised the importance of humility and the necessity of shedding ego, pointing out that knowing when to admit you need help is crucial to overcoming difficult situations. He further asserted that no one is truly fearless, saying, "If someone tells you they're not afraid of anything, they're either lying or have never faced a scary situation."
He spoke candidly about his personal experiences, ranging from his challenging ascent of Everest, his service with the British Special Forces, to the countless survival situations that have become synonymous with his name. Reflecting on his service in the SAS, Grylls mentioned that beyond the physical and mental training, the skill he values most is the lifelong friendships he forged. He recounted how 120 people began the intense training, yet only four, including himself, successfully completed it. Grylls proudly mentioned that he remains lifelong friends with the other three men who endured and succeeded alongside him.
The audience was given a unique glimpse into the philosophy that has shaped Grylls’ remarkable journey. His stories not only showcased his extraordinary adventures but also provided relatable lessons in perseverance, resilience, and humility. Following his talk, Grylls took questions from enthusiastic students, sharing further insights into his life and career.
The GMB Debating Chamber, steeped in history and tradition, provided the perfect backdrop for an event that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to attend.
