It’s just mythology, right?

You remember this Greek myth I’m sure, but probably not the name of Sisyphus. By command of Zeus, Sisyphus was compelled to roll a huge rock up a steep hill. The curse was that before reaching the top of the hill, he would lose control, and the rock would crash its way back down the slope, forcing him to begin again. It was a punishment befitting his arrogance.

Some might identify with the futility of such labors that never find a conclusion. Never ending tasks; perpetually incomplete projects; decisions held in aggravating abeyance. It is called, “The Sisyphus Syndrome”.

Less known about is the ignorant step-brother of Sisyphus. His name was Busyphan. He was neither cursed nor reviled by the gods, but instead was left to his own genius and whim. He was an appointed govenor of the people. Despite the freedom and power, he was debilitated by distractions. He held no objectives like his brother to push the stone to the summit, but rather he wasted the days of his determination with a fascade of work that held little importance.

Busyphan spent countless hours corresponding on affairs that held neither consequence nor conclusion. He presided over menial matters by gathering together the populars who would profess, interpret, expound and pontificate. No decisions need be made. They could fill their bellies with contented extrapolations, but not with moving the status quo. It is called "The Banality of Busyphan".

Very few will identify with Busyphan, but many can easily see his inabilities manifest in their coworkers and supervisors. Busyphan could never count a drop a sweat to any action other than email and meetings and a regurgitive rehash of the seemingly same subjects week after week. Blood or tears would never mark any work deemed noble or great.

Tragic characters. Tragic circumstances. Tragic little accomplished. But then again, it’s just mythology, right?