17 Life Lessons from Benjamin Franklin On His 312th Birthday
Benjamin Franklin is, quite possibly, the most interesting American of all time. Ever since I was a kid, he’s been a hero of mine. He invented the lightning rod, bifocals, and a stove that was far safer and warmer than others at the time. (When offered the commercial patent for it, he declined so that everyone could benefit, saying “As we enjoy great advantages from the inventions of others, we should be glad of an opportunity to serve others by any invention of ours, and this we should do freely and generously.”)
Franklin started a library and a university, both of which exist to this day. He launched a fire brigade, served as postmaster, and printed books, magazines, and paper money. He’s the reason why I write a new aphorism every day. Two of his books are in my list of top 60 all-time favorites. Oh, and he basically invented America.
Plus he’s on the 100 dollar bill. Where would rappers be if they couldn’t toss Benjamins?
Truth be told, I also like ol’ Ben for another reason: Benjamin Franklin’s birthday is January 17th. My birthday is January 17th. Benjamin Franklin’s pen name was Richard Saunders. My best friend’s…
