If I could write a letter that went back in time and was delivered to me when I got out of college, this is what I would say (no doubt most of this still applies!):
Dear Me in College:
Some pointers from your older self:
- Seek the truth above all else.
This is more important than anything else. It is not a game for
philosophers -- it is something you have to do. The sooner and more
seriously you seek the truth, the better off you will be. Remember
what Jesus said: There are some things that are more important than
even food and clothing!The New York that you know says that the truth is unattainable and,
besides, it is not really all that important after all. Do not be
deceived! You are too young to understand why the people around you
talk that way. - Value wisdom.
Your father is more than twice your age. That makes him more than
twice as wise, all things being equal. He is not always right, but he
is two times more likely to be right than you are.The same goes for the Catholic Church. I know you do not believe in
it, but consider that it is a hundred times older than you. That makes
it a hundred times wiser than you, all things being equal. It is not
always right, but it is a hundred times more likely to be right than you
are.In general, a quick and dirty way to measure the wisdom of something
is its age. That means your friends are lost. It means that any idea
or book from the last hundred years is, more likely than not, not
worth much; that any one who follows intellectual fashions is most likely wrong! Keep that in mind.It also means that is better to read
older books than newer books. The older the better. - Learn to talk to women.
- So long as you are doing the right thing, do not trouble yourself with
what others think. - Make a decision about what it is you want to do in life and then make
it happen.Otherwise you will be like a ship blown about by the wind, never
getting anywhere. - Blood is thicker than water.
- Enjoy life.
Even though others say you are too laid back, the truth is, you are
far too wound up and serious. Lighten up! - Spend more time with friends and family.
- Read more.
- If you fall in love with someone or something, go for it.
Your passion will get you much farther than anything else.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Abagond
Tue 11 Apr 2006
