This simple piece of paper is everyone’s favorite collectible. For many, it even equates to self-esteem having a pocketful of these. For others, it equates to the freedom of having a full glove to spend on whatever.
I love them too. The best feature for me is the portrait on the front … old Ben Franklin.
Ben was an amazing guy. He attached a key to the kite and flew it in a thunderstorm to prove that lightning was electricity. He invented the lightning rod to protect buildings from lightning. He invented bifocals so that old people could read and see the horizon at the same time. He invented the belly stove so that people could heat their homes without open fireplaces. He even invented daylight saving time so we could get the most out of vitamin D. He invented the odometer to see how far his mail coaches were traveling.
He was instrumental in drafting the United States constitution. He convinced France to help the colonists in their fight for independence from England. Without that help, there would be no United States of A.
He wrote one of the best self-help books out there … his own autobiography. He was a printer and publisher. He founded one of the first public libraries in the United States.
He was down to earth and a pragmatic philosopher. Her short quotes stand out as key pieces of wisdom that we can all use to improve the quality of our lives.
“Not planning is planning failure.” Those who live their lives by accident rather than on purpose would do well to post this simple tip on their bathroom mirror, where it can be seen at the beginning of each new day.
“Do you love life? Then don’t waste your time, because that’s what life is made of.” For those who spend time in front of their televisions, stick this one on your television screen.
“Going to bed early, getting up early makes a man healthy, rich and wise.” For the partygoers that we all carry inside.
“Those who can give up essential freedom to get a little temporary security deserve neither freedom nor security.” For those who allow governments to pass laws for ‘their own safety and protection’ that actually limit their freedom.
And for those who fear both life and death …
“If you weren’t forgotten
As soon as you’re dead and rotten
or write things worth reading
or do things that are worth writing. “
– Ben Franklin
