Ages 10 and 100 share insights
InspirationAuthor finds wisdom in young, old
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Published: October 18, 2009
It has been said that wisdom comes from the mouths of babes. It also can come from the minds and hearts of people who have lived a century. Such treasures can be found in a compact book, "What I Know: Uncommon Wisdom and Universal Truths From 10-Year-Olds and 100-Year-Olds” (Clarkson Potter, $16.99).
Roger Emerson Fishman, who has accumulated wisdom in his own life, traveled 38,000 miles to collect thoughts and experiences of the young and the old, finding delight in what he heard.
"Everyone I met — centenarians as well as 10-year-olds — had stories to share, wisdom and inspiration to impart, and hope and strength in their hearts and in their souls,” he wrote.
The youngsters were amazing in their insights, and the 100-year-olds told stories of hardship, endurance and energy. The old people were noted for looking ahead even at their stage in life. They were busy, optimistic and cheerful. They preach one should never give up, regardless of what life bestows; neither should one ever quit learning.
Fishman was inspired by examples set by his own grandfather. The book opens with that story and includes sections on self-confidence, integrity, friendship, parenting, the joy of giving, preparation for life, personal choices and change.
Illustrated by young faces and wrinkled ones, the book can be described as cute as well as profound.
Humor is seen, for example in a sentence of a 10-year-old, identified as Kennadel I,
Kentwood, La., "If you really, truly believe in yourself and all the cool stuff you can do, then you really will pass the fourth grade.”
— Dennie Hall
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