Nine Things I Learned

Looking back over my life from when I (Ward) was about ninety, I ruefully reflected on how often I went off the rails. I suspect that they all would have been avoided if it hadn’t taken me most of a lifetime to get a grip on a few basic principles. I’m laying them out here for readers who might want to be aware of them. — Edward Packard pdf

1) to be self-constituted

2) to keep awake and aware

3) to consider what others may be thinking and feeling

4) to make happiness my default state of mind

5) to seek an eternal perspective

6) to guard against self-deception

7) how to confront mortality

8) what an outsized role is played by luck

9) to consider what you have at the moment

I am reminded of August Wilson's How I learned what I learned. Both offer advice to the next generation. Listen up.

Originally performed by August Wilson himself, How I Learned What I Learned is a heartfelt theatrical memoir charting one man’s journey of self-discovery through adversity, and what it means to be a Black artist in America. Helmed by celebrated Wilson director Tim Bond, this beautiful solo work brings Wilson’s necessary voice and gorgeous poetry back to OSF. post

Thompson Morrison relates his journey from technology entrepreneur to re-imagining and recreating education. Lessons here for all of us who want to see change in our legacy institutions.

Marc interviewed Thompson five years ago how he came to education. It is an excellent summary about how Thompson came to be who he is and what he does.

Aside: As I listen to this interview again I have to complement Marc for listening carefully and only occasionally asking for more detail. Thank you Marc.