If you just read Joseph Campbell, who has written amazing books on mythology and religion, they all do come together at some point. There are some of the greatest stories that there have ever been in the Bible. All you have to do is read the book of Maccabi, it's like a film script.
When people hold you in high esteem, it's very delicate relationship. When they meet you they're putting all their chips up. It's make or break.