Three thoughts from the past that are still relevant today

As I looked over recent developments this week and last, I had to shake my head. For as much progress and knowledge that we have access to in today’s world, we still seem to make the same bone-head mistakes.

As I read about Mr. Williams from NBC, it brings up the following from Mr. Franklin.

It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it. – Benjamin Franklin.

As I read about the Little League team from Chicago, whose coaches bent the rules to recruit better players, I thought of the following from Mr. Kant.

Out of the crooked timber of humanity, no straight thing was ever made. – Immanuel Kant

But even as our television and newspapers fill up with sadness and scandal, there are moments that bring things back into focus. As I watched this video, and I urge you to do so as well, it made me think of this.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.” – Max Ehrmann, Desiderata

If it is OK with all of you, I’m tipping my hat to Mr. Ehrmann today.