May You Never Grow Up
The Character of The Philosopher
Philosophy is not all head-stuff and thinkology. The lover of wisdom discerns, understands, directs the mind in order to take appropriate action. The lover of wisdom has a plan that informs works. The lover of wisdom is identified by character: he is aware of himself and his relationships to others.
Imagine for a moment a young lady who, stepping through an open door says “thank you.” A nice young lady, correct? But in getting to the door, she ran to be the first one through, even pushing someone aside. The outward show makes one statement, but her character is seen in how she treated others. Philosophy is more than manners. Philosophy is more than acquiring knowledge. Philosophy is the pursuit of doing what is right, even adding value to others, contributing.
This is what distinguishes the lover of wisdom, the philosopher: character. One is mindful, attentive, flexible, bold, discerning, compassionate, content, decisive, responsible.
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