A letter written by Abraham Lincoln to the Headmaster of a school in
which his son was studying. It contains an advice, which is still
relevant today for executives, workers, teachers, parents and
students.
Teach him that for every enemy there is a friend.
It will take time, I know; but teach him, if you can, that a dollar
earned is of far more value than five found.
Teach him to learn to lose and also enjoy the winning.
Steer him away from envy, if you can .
Teach him the secret of quiet laughter. Let him learn early that
bullies are easiest to lick.
Teach him if you can the wonder of books…but also give him quiet time
to ponder over the eternal mystery of birds in the sky, bees in the
sun, and flowers on the green hill-side.
In school teach him it is far more honorable to fail than to cheat.
Teach him to have faith in his own ideas, even if everyone tells him
they are wrong.
Teach him to be gentle with gentle people and tough with the tough.
Try to give my son the strength not to follow the crowd when everyone
is getting on the band wagon.
Teach him to listen to all men but teach him also to filter all he
hears on a screen of truth and take only the good that comes through.
Teach him if you can how to laugh when he is sad.
Teach him there is no shame in tears.
Teach him to scoff at cynics and be aware of too much sweetness.
Teach him to sell of his brawn and brain to the highest bidders; but
never put a price tag on his heart and soul.
Teach him to close his ears to a howling mob…and to stand and fight if
he thinks he's right.
Treat him gently; but do not cuddle him because only the test of fire
makes fine steel .
Let him have the courage to be impatient, let him have the patience to
be brave.
Teach him always to have sublime faith in himself because then he will
always have sublime faith in mankind.
This is a big order; but see what you can do…he is such a fine little
fellow, my son
~Abraham Lincoln
Contributor: Prathap.GS
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