Tolstoy, after Rousseau, on Knowledge and Wisdom

“Real wisdom is not the knowledge of everything, but the knowledge of which things in life are necessary, which are less necessary, and which are completely unnecessary to know. Among the most necessary knowledge is the knowledge of how to live well, that is, how to produce the least possible evil and the greatest goodness in one’s life. At present, people study useless sciences, but forget to study this, the most important knowledge.”

Day 3: Congratulations, Young Man!


Today we graduate our youngest from High School so to you we say, "Congratulations, Young Man!" We are excited for all your accomplishments.

Our Dedication for your Graduation (read before receiving his diploma): 

"It is said that, 'Great men are like eagles, and build their nest on some lofty solitude.' William, you are well on your way to being a great man. Your inner strength is evident as you soar in every good thing you set your heart and mind to do. We give you the blessing to go even higher."

This is a milestone day in all our lives because we all did this, together. Though he's the last one to graduate from High School, he was preceded by his siblings. Young women and another younger (but older) man who are making their way through life, convinced of what they know yet still trying to figure it all out.
You are all doing the best you can--or at least you should be.

You know who you are.

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