John Adams

I’m reading John Adams, by David McCullough right now. I’ve seen this quote from Adams before, but it struck me tonight as I was reading it…

I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy. My sons ought to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history, naval architecture, navigation, commerce, and agriculture in order to give their children a right to study paintings, poetry, music, architecture, statuary, tapestry and porcelain.

What struck me was the forward-thinking of it. This guy believed that if he were able to accept his lot and discipline himself to his duty in life, that things would be better for his children. And if they, in turn, hardened themselves to their duty, things would be better for theirs. It’s a very American idea to believe that each generation should pass to the next a better country than they themselves inherited, but it seems to be an overlooked factor that we can only do that by being the best kind of people we can be in our own lives every day.

Are we as a country making things better for the next generation? I have my doubts about that. But are we as individuals setting the right example for our own kids to follow? That’s something we can directly influence. All I know is that there’s always room for improvement…