Neil Okrent

‘When you return from a hunt,’ he continued, ‘make sure you go home after sunset, so that nobody spies you with your catch. And never get big-headed over your accomplishments, let them speak for themselves. That way you’ll always remember to try harder the next time.’ - Andrew Zaitsev

Do not get bigheaded over your accomplishments. Let them speak for themselves in your appraisal reviews with those around you. Focus on doing better each time giving two percent better attention to each step of the task. Let not Thine own mouth praise thee, but the lips of a stranger. This proverb reminded me also that your accomplishments should be spoken of by other people and not you yourself.

Be humble and quiet and simple in your habits. When it is time for you to showcase your talent then it will be that time. Live a simple life dedicated to the pursuits you love and one day appreciation will come for all that you have achieved in your life. Remember the race isn’t given to the swift. It is given to those who take their time and work steadily on accomplishing their dreams and goals through careful goal setting and taking action in making their dreams a reality.

I did everything he asked, exactly as he told me. - Vassili Zaitsev

Do everything you are asked exactly as you are told to avoid friction between yourself and your parents. It is not matter your opinion of them. What matters is the blessings you are giving then by listening to their wisdom and keeping them happy. Especially as they get older in age. Make their lives easier by listening to what they want or require. They know best! Truly! Stop listening to your haters and listen to those who love, value, and appreciate you. Be committed to having a strong bond and relationship with your parents. They are important. Love them through your obedience and one day you will be richly rewarded.… (mehr)

Nacido en los Urales y habituado a la caza, Vassili Záitsev era un tirador excepcional, como lo demostró en la batalla de Stalingrado, donde, según sus propias palabras, "maté a 242 alemanes, incluyendo más de diez tiradores enemigos". Este libro es el relato personal de su experiencia en la guerra, sin las manipulaciones con que la falseó el cine en "Enemigo a las puertas". Lo que da un valor excepcional a este relato es el hecho de que nos ofrece el testimonio de alguien que vivió personalmente el salvajismo de la que ha sido considerada como la batalla más sangrienta de la historia: una "guerra de ratas" entre las ruinas, donde la esperanza de vida de un nuevo combatiente no pasaba de las 24 horas, y que acabó cobrándose de tres a cuatro millones de bajas.… (mehr)