John Steinbeck
(1902-1968)
"But most important of all, the truth, that dangerous stuff, became beautiful and more precious."
"JOY, from apprehension of novelty, ADMIRATION; proper to Man, because it excites the appetite of knowing the cause."JOY, arising from imagination of a mans own power and ability, is that exultation of the mind which is called GLORYING..."
Thomas Hobbes
Leviathan
"On Teaching"
by John SteinbeckIt is customary for adults to forget how hard and dull school is. The learning by memory all the basic things one must know is the most incredible and unending effort. Learning to read is probably the most difficult and revolutionary thing that happens to the human brain and if you don't believe that watch an illiterate adult try to do it. School is not so easy and it is not for the most part very fun, but then, if you are very lucky, you may find a teacher. Three real teachers in a lifetime is the very best of luck. I have come to believe that a great teacher is a great artist and that there are as few as there are any other great artists. Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.
My three had these things in common. They all loved what they were doing. They did not tell - the catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of all, the truth, that dangerous stuff, became beautiful and precious.
Back
to Search for the Truth Page