By Sid Stevens 2011

Read and Learn

     First, I would say, read the ancients’ plays, read all of Shakespeare, build a foundation of stories and knowledge. Learn other languages. Drink, no gulp, from the fountain of myths and legends, read history and all the modern classics. Revel in the reference, for that is where awareness begins to develop. Words are the jewels that one generation passes to the next.

     Second, remarkably, the stories never change. They are honed, refined, and out of that refinement grows recorded consciousness, along with data. The next generation is destined to expand, build, through self-expression and creativity. Language allows us to express ourselves; it even allows us to tell what it is like to be alone. Each of us will sometimes feel alone, but because others have told that story, logically we enjoy a kinship to these storytellers and therefore know we are not alone.

    Third, I recommend each person make agreements with his or her self to act as a guide to personal freedom. I strive to follow, and find strength in,
Don Miguel Ruiz‘s
A Toltec Four Agreements Wisdom Book. These agreements are:

1) be impeccable with your word,
2) don’t take anything personally,
3) don’t make assumptions and
4) always do your best.

 

     Joy, love, hope, my answer would not be complete without pointing out their perpetual existence. They thrive despite the impermanent nature of everything; babies are born, a faun follows its mother, boy kisses girl, a red tulip blooms, mistakes are forgotten, redwoods survive and the next generation will yield to the one that follows.   

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