The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin — Book Review
Just begun. I already like the simple writing, not too wordy at all…
Well I must say that ended abruptly. Regardless that I enjoyed what I read I was surprised it wasn’t a full autobiography, and I can’t lie, it did spoil the experience, a little. Hence 4 stars.
Benjamin Franklin was an interesting character, who lived in the 1700s when America as we know it, was in it’s infancy and still ruled by Britain. Very enlightening the colonial arrogance of these times.
Franklin, in my opinion, possessed the right amount of religion, he was tolerant of ALL faiths. He was also a vegetarian and gave great business advice and life tips. Some proper gems that I will actually take on board.
Here are his 13 virtues to live by… his personal work-in-progress, something he adopted over time. (archaic spelling included)
1. TEMPERANCE. Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.
2. SILENCE. Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation.
3. ORDER. Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time.
4. RESOLUTION. Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.
5. FRUGALITY. Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing.
6. INDUSTRY. Lose no time; be always employ’d in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
7. SINCERITY. Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. JUSTICE. Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty.
9. MODERATION. Avoid extreams; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
10. CLEANLINESS. Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloaths, or habitation.
11. TRANQUILLITY. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.
12. CHASTITY. Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dulness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another’s peace or reputation.
13. HUMILITY. Imitate Jesus and Socrates.
Thinking of reading it? Go for it, it won’t take long but the impression it leaves will last a lifetime.
