The Man. The Myth. Mr. Benjamin Franklin
Since we all know today's notable quotable - Benjamin Franklin - I can dispense with the typical backgrounder that precedes the quotes.
Instead, you get some short commentary from yours truly.
If you haven't seen the recent HBO series on John Adams you absolutely have to check it out. Not only is it the best account of some of my favorite revolutionary American heroes, but the impact is even greater because they are presented in unvarnished and unpolished form on screen. From pimpled, pocked and ruddy-faced fore-fathers and mothers to unflatering personal foibles, blunders and dalliances, you get much of the often glossed-over aspects of our seemingly mythical early history along with the astonishingly vivid realities that are even starker than typically remembered. Do yourself a favor and rent it on DVD or through your online TV provider.
One of the stalwarts of John Adams (the series, not the man) was the truly iconic Mr. Franklin. He is portrayed by Tom Wilkinson who does a fine job in a sincere and powerful representation of the vastly influential founding father. The focus is on the statesman and the man, especially in his role representing the early United States in France. You get none of the tinkerer and scientist, but a strong sense of his character and fallibility in the portrayal. All of which helps a viewer, especially this one, appreciate his accomplishments all the more.
Now, without further rambling, I present some fine words from the man who wanted the turkey to be our national bird:
“To lengthen thy life, lessen thy meals.”
“He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else”
“I didn't fail the test, I just found 100 ways to do it wrong”
“He that displays too often his wife and his wallet is in danger of having both of them borrowed”
“To Follow by faith alone is to follow blindly.”
“We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid.”
“Speak ill of no man, but speak all the good you know of everybody”
“Some people die at 25 and aren't buried until 75.”
“To succeed, jump as quickly at opportunities as you do at conclusions.”
“Content makes poor men rich; discontent makes rich men poor.”
“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it”
“When in doubt, don't.”
Quotes provided by ThinkExist.com
Cheers! - Jason
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