It is now October 7, 2023. Einstein said, “Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” I think he’s right but that he doesn’t go far enough. Education should also train the mind to live a good life. Unfortunately, they don’t offer Stoic Philosophy as a course in Middle or High School. You have to decide to learn it on your own. You can. Search on “Stoic Quotes” and start reading. 10.07 is Bathtub Day, Frugal Fun Day, LED Light Day, National Flower Day, National Forgiveness Day, National Frappe Day, National Play Outside Day, Odd Socks Day, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Day, and You Matter to Me Day. Now some history: On this day in 1520 the first public burning of books took place in Louvain, Netherlands. Books were a big deal since most of them were hand copied. These books were written by Luther. On this day in 1571 the Battle of Lepanto was fought between the Holy League of Southern Europe and the Ottoman fleet. This battle is referred to as the Battle That Saved Europe. The Holy League won. On this day in 1886 Spain abolished slavery in Cuba. On this day in 1916 Georgia Tech, coached by John Heisman, defeated Cumberland 222-0. This is the most lopsided score in the history of college football. On this day in 1952 the first “Bandstand” was broadcast in Philadelphia. Dick Clark didn’t join until 1955. On this day in 1971 “the French Connection” starring Gene Hackman premiered in the US and won Best Picture at the 1972 Oscars. It’s still a great movie. Today we visit the grave of Edgar Allan Poe who died on this day in 1849 at the too young age of 40. Edgar said, “Those who gossip with you will gossip about you.” “A lie travels round the world while truth is putting her boots on.” “All suffering originates from craving, from attachment, from desire.” “The best things in life make you sweaty.” I like that one. “The past is a pebble in my shoe.” Last one: “To die laughing must be the most glorious of all glorious deaths.” Never thought of that before. I might turn that into a song or a poem. Abide.
