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The Sixth Letter to My Millennials
My dear Misunderstood,
I realize that the second half of my headline title goes counter to what everyone wishes to do in his or her life. However, let me suggest a different approach or life strategy that will lead you to the same result.
I believe we have been created by God to develop ourselves as fully or as best as we can and to use the gifts He has given us. How is that to be done, especially in today’s world?
First, I would ask you to focus on becoming a saintly man or woman. I don’t want you to become a saint, just saintly. Saints are few and far between, but saintly men and women are easier to find if we look hard enough. In this context, I would have you understand the word saintly as a synonym for being a man or woman of virtue and integrity. Living in a civil and reasonably just society means that we must strive to be virtuous and principled. There are absolutes in life, and everything is not relative or situational.
Second, I would ask you to know yourself at a deep level, to become truly self-aware of who you are. “Know thyself” was the great dictum of Socrates and was his implied advice to those who followed in his philosophical footsteps. I encountered very few people in my social or business interactions over the last 55 years or so (my adult years) who had a deep understanding of themselves. Some were extremely intelligent and knowledgeable, but, for the most part, they lacked understanding and wisdom of any great depth.
Third, become a lover of truth and a seeker of wisdom. As a wise man once said, and I paraphrase, “The purpose of life is not to win arguments but to become wise.” I often hear that everybody should speak his or her truth. I would counter that by saying that everybody has opinions and beliefs, but truth stands alone and must be sought on its own.
Finally, create a pocket of excellence around you and your family by choosing your friends carefully and with great caution. With good friends and like-minded colleagues, you can accomplish much in your life, and in the end, make a difference.
I am convinced that life is best when we move from success to significance to legacy. I invite you on that life journey. The best time to start that journey is when you are young. So, don’t delay!
With great affection,
Old White Beard