For those who believe in destiny, fate is considered something one cannot control.
However, Vice Chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace says that this aspect of uncertainty is crucial to life achievement.
"Part of being successful is being lucky," Pace said, adding that being in the military has limited his control over who he works with and who influences him.
Civilians, on the other hand, have the freedom to choose what types of people they come into contact with, he said.
As the second highest ranking official in the U.S. Army, Pace gave an unconventional lecture yesterday to a full auditorium in Huntsman Hall.
Instead of delivering an ordinary speech, the general talked for only five minutes before opening up the floor to questions.
He focused on three things he thinks are important to keep in mind on how to live life.
He stressed that everyone should "take the time to set your own moral compass," that "you only have two things... your name and your personal integrity," and to "take care of the folks that look to you for leadership."
This advice set the tone and atmosphere for the next hour, which Pace spent answering questions from audience members.
Initially, the audience did not ask many questions. However, soon students and faculty were fighting over who would go next.
Attendees asked Pace about his experiences in the military.
Topics ranged from the war in Iraq to morality to leadership. He also covered the influence a leader has over his or her subordinates, how to handle not agreeing with one's superiors and how he got to where he is today.
Pace also spoke periodically about his experiences in the Vietnam War and how they influence and inspire him to this day.
In an emotional statement, he attributed his passion for leading to those who died by his side in combat.
Pace responded to the questioners in a calm and deliberate manner, articulately stressing the importance of sincerity.
Avi Raval, a first-year Wharton MBA student, said he found the lecture "helpful."
"I thought it was going to be more prepared," he added, noting that Pace "was a lot more thoughtful and introspective than I expected."
Pace is still on active duty -- even though he has been in the military for 36 years and is now a general.
Pace was on campus to deliver the latest of the Wharton Leadership Lectures.
