As I wrap up work on the latest Team Walker novel, I am turning my focus to rewrite an unpublished novel from the Gritt series, one that takes a hard look at America. We’ve had some extraordinary presidents and a few turkeys. Keeping the best humble and the worst somewhat harmless, has been the task of two centuries of American philosophers. They come from many walks of life, with words that still resonate today. Below, I note five of my favorite everyday philosophers whose words continue to be protected by one of our most cherished freedoms, the freedom of speech.
Robert Frost advised, “People need to think, that’s not to agree or disagree, that’s voting.”
Mark Twain gave us thought provoking advice, including, “It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world, and moral courage so rare.”
Eleanor Roosevelt gave the nation a real understanding of power behind the throne. Her value system and access to the media allowed her to set a tone for the people with advice like, “Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, and small minds discuss people.”
Harriet Tubman offered advice for those escaping slavery, and that advice is every bit as important today. For example, her narrative, “If you hear the dogs, keep going. If you see the torches in the woods keep going. If you want a taste of freedom, keep going.” For a successful life, keep going.
Colin Powell reached the zenith of military leadership and international politics with common language and level head. For example, he advised, “Don’t be buffaloed by experts and elites, experts often possess more data than judgment.”
We are fortunate to live in a country where everyday people rise to the levels where their words are published, and the philosophies that made them successful become advice to us all.