573. When You Don't Know

Whenever you don't know something, simply say "I don't know." This is much better than trying to cloak the fact (that you don't know) with ambiguous words, generalities and vague undefinable terms. Do not set up smoke screens. If you know, say so; if you don't, admit it immediately. The reply "I don't know." is much more tolerable and acceptable than the attempts to maintain your false position as an authority on the subject. Candid honesty is more beautiful than deceitful duplicity.

It is very flattering to the ego to have your opinion sought and to be consulted on all manner of subjects and it is very gratifying to be able to give wise and correct answers and become known as a wise man but you must never allow this to seduce you into pretending to know those things that you do not. This is one of the great dangers of the study of Philosophy and a trap for the mind which you should avoid. Like every situation, if you look you will find an upside. In the case where you are asked something you can't answer, you should see this as an opportunity to learn. Go and find out the answers to these questions.

409. The Life of a Highwayman

In Post No. 408 the advice was to secure at least one academic qualification. Always bear in mind a piece of wisdom from the Jewish tradition that goes like this : "The man who fails to give his son a trade is preparing him for the life of a highwayman." This means that you should give your son all the education and training needed so that he can make a decent living honestly and with integrity. In your case, you are studying horsemanship, matrial arts, drama, typing and rugby. These are all disciplines that can provide you with a good living if you teach them once you have become proficient in them. You should do the same for your sons and daughters.

348. Principles that Govern the Universe

There are Universal Principles or Laws that operate in the Creation whether we like them or not. These are the "things behind the things." These are the causes behind the effects that we see. When we say that they are Universal, we mean that they are everywhere the same. They are true in every location and across every culture. Principles are Timeless and Constant. They never change over time. Some examples are : -

* Fairness
* Kindness
* Respect
* Honesty
* Integrity
* Service
* Contribution
* Trust

While principles are self-evident, you may miss them until they are pointed out to you. Make collecting them one of your life's goals.

207. A List of Good Practices

Here is a list of good practices. You should take each one and attempt to establish it in your character. Take one a week and in six months you will be a different (better) person.

1. Succeed at home first.
2. Seek and merit divine help.
3. Never compromise with honesty.
4. Always remember the people involved.
5. Hear both sides before judging. *
6. Obtain the wise counsel of others.
7. Defend those who are absent.
8. Be sincere and decisive.
9. Develop a new proficiency every year.
10. Plan tomorrow's work today.
11. Hustle while you wait.
12. Maintain a positive attitude.
13. Maintain a sense of humour.
14. Be orderly in person and in work.
15. Do not fear mistakes. Fear only the absence of creative, constructive and corrective responses to your mistakes.
16. Facilitate the success of others.
17. Listen twice as much as you speak.
18. Concentrate all your abilities and effort on the task in hand.
19. Get organised and stay organised. Have a system for everything !
20. Always ask "What would the Wise do here ?"
21. Make everything as simple as possible but no simpler.
22. Keep practicing.
23. Stay close to your goals.
24. Meet adversity with composure.
25. Study every day.
26. Always keep your word.