Saturday, March 7, 2020

A New Little Book

I have a new little book.  A big follower of Ryan Holdiday - this guy that actually makes his living reading and dutifully produces a monthly email listing the books he has read and a short take on the book, you can check him out at Ryan's Blog, Best of 2019 List 

Anyway, this little book of quotes which Leo Tolstoy gathered up seemed like a good by-the-desk book.  I pause, in the middle of a stressful day studded with COVID19 planning, contractor needs and employee questions, and read a page or two.

As I am on duty this weekend, I have come to the office to get a couple of things managed for the weekend.  And so, I pause and read a couple of pages.  It seems like a very good idea!  As Tolstoy gathered these quotes, he would pick a favorite of the day.  The one that really resonated with him.  Here is the one that resonates with me today.

(1) Do not postpone for tomorrow what  you can do today. (2) Do not force another person to do what you can do by yourself.  (3) Pride costs more than all that is necessary for food, drink, shelter, or dress.  (4) We suffer so much, thinking about what could have happened, but not about what has actually happened.  (5) If you lose your tempter, count up to ten before you do or say anything.  If you haven't calmed down, then count to a hundred; and if you have not calmed down after this, count up to a thousand.

Wise words to ponder today from Thomas Jefferson.


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