egoose

I thought it was very interesting to get an "inside look" at the infamous Ben Franklin who, to me, is known for many other things than his preciseness and want to live a moral-filled life of perfection. While the great inventions are what seem to outline his life, historians seem to leave this part of his life "out of the loop." Although, perhaps this is just a display of my lack of knowledge in the history department. ;-). Reading the excerpt from Franklin's autobiography was fascinating because it shows how much, even with such a brilliant man, the "small stuff" really matter(ed/s) to people. His thirteen virtues to live by were, while easier said than done, respectable. Many of these virtues are still steadfast in today's community. I realized that Franklin did not reference a lot to religion like all the past readings have - instead of following virtues FOR God, or ABOUT God, it was for himself and about himself/his want to live a good life. Franklin's idea of "self-examination" was a good one. Perhaps a way to get one's life in order, or back in order. With these established virtues and the want to keep track of adherance to them -- this task could only become more feasible. I look forward to our experience with personal virtues !!!