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.”

Exploration

I was in my third mile the other day, had just come around the curve heading back to the house when in the break of trees, saw this marvelous site. This beautiful cloud bank had been creeping up from behind and did not see it until I made the turn. The pic just doesn't do it justice. But its' still breath-taking.

















The reason things such like clouds fascinate me is rooted in the science (think of it: a million pounds of water floating over your head) and delight of exploration. I've learned to:

1. Always be looking
2. Consider everything alive
3. Look closer--everything is interesting
4. Alter my course often
5. Observe for long durations (and short ones)
6. Notice the stories going on as things change
7. Notice patterns, make connections
8. Document findings in a variety of ways (like pics)
9. Marvel at the unknown
10. Observe movement, change
11. "Talk to" the environment--especially the wildlife
12. Consider the origin of all things
13. Use all the senses while investigating
14. Be grateful

Do the same and watch the world unfold before your eyes. The world is a beautiful place. 

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