Friday, July 15, 2011

Book Review - The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Out of millions of individuals in history, there are few who transcend politics, science, inventions, etc. It is common to accept certain individuals to be a pioneer or innovator in a specific field. For example, Thomas Edison is an inventor with the highest degree of persistence. He has over hundreds of inventions that he patented such as the incandescent light bulb, the phonograph, etc. George Washington is the first President of the United States with the highest degree of leadership. He was able to lead a group of part-time soldiers into the creation of the independent United States of America. These individuals are commended and admired in their chosen field of endeavor.

There are few individuals who are multi-talented enough to be a leader in several different fields. One such individual is Benjamin Franklin. His autobiography (conveniently entitled), "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin", depicts his life as one of overcoming and becoming in the highest degree. He has to be one of the first American to be considered a "rags to riches" story. His autobiography is one of those books that anyone can learn and become a better person in any chosen field of endeavor.

Benjamin Franklin was an apprentice who had many short-comings such as short-tempered, rudeness, etc. Fortunately, he was able to overcome these short-comings. According to his autobiography, he did so in a rather innovative way. He focused on one short-coming each month. For example, one month he focused on frugality. He would develop habits to be frugal then eventually wealthy. Then, he would focus on being mild-tempered. For one month, he would control his temper especially his tongue. He acquired habits that made him a better person.

Later, Benjamin Franklin would be a politician, ambassador to France, scientist, inventor, etc. His life would be full of years and years full of life. He was still physically and mentally active well into his eighties. He became an ambassador to France during the Revolutionary War. He is still revered in France as well as the United States. He invented the lightning rod to protect buildings from lightning strikes. He developed the first postal office in Philadelphia. He contributed as a delegate for the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. He would be considered a Leonardo Da Vinci and a true renaissance man. His life was fascinating. Thus, his autobiography is interesting and worthwhile to read.

All of us could learn from his life.

As an author, Pascasio Felisilda recently published the book "Nanay: Lessons from a Mother". This is a very inspiring book. Its simplicity empowers the message and story about a legacy that is worth living. The book is available through http://www.amazon.com/ or through http://www.ebookstand.com/book_details/Nanay_Lessons_from_a_Mother_PAPERBACK_VERSION


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