The Philosopher
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In a recent survey, journalists were asked, “Of all people living and dead, who would be the person you would most want to interview”? It was a great surprise to learn that most journalists chose Albert Einstein as the person they would most like to interview. Even Jesus came in second. So what is it about Albert Einstein that makes him so revered?

No, it’s not his many accomplishments in science and physics, for which he is obviously well known; but rather, people who have studied Mr. Einstein, want to know more about his take on life itself. As I discovered, Mr. Einstein was quite a philosopher!

Albert Einstein was born in Germany March 14, 1879. He lived in Germany and Switzerland until 1933 when he visited the United States. Because Hitler was in power in Germany, Mr. Einstein decided to stay in the United States, which gave him a unique perspective on life.

It was one of his quotes that I read in a farm magazine that sparked my interest in this man’s philosophy. This quote reads;

                 “Everyday I remind myself that my inner and outer life are based
                   on the labors of other men, living and dead, and that I must exert
                   myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received
                                                  and am still receiving.”

What a wonderful philosophy to live by. So unselfish! Giving credit to others for his successes and then feeling obligated to give in the same measure as he has received!

While the world may think of him as a self-made man because of all his accomplishments, Mr. Einstein was actually quite humble. I can’t help but think that his experience of living in Germany during a very troubled time, and then realizing the freedoms that existed in America, helped shape his take on life.

Isn’t it, within our families, a wonderful place for Albert Einstein’s philosophy to blossom and grow? There are those in my family who have helped shape me and have left an impression on me. I’m certain the same is true of you and others. We see ‘strong’ families that cherish their past and nurture their future.

                                Take a look at some of Mr. Einstein’s other quotes:

“Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.”

“The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources.”

“To punish me for my contempt for authority, fate made me an authority myself.”

“Before God we are all equally wise – and equally foolish.”

“Reading, after a certain age, diverts the mind too much from its creative pursuits. Any man who reads too much and uses his own brain too little, falls into lazy habits of thinking.”

Doug
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