Self-Taught

The words of the wise are like cattle prods...painful but harmful. Their collected saying are like a nail-studded stick with which a shepherd drives the sheep. But, my child, let me give you some further advice: Be careful, for writing books is endless, and much study wears you out. (Ecclesiastes 12:11-12)

Ken Jennings is regarded as one of the greatest "trivial" minds in the world. It took six months to kick him off the quiz show Jeopardy! By the time he finally lost, he had earned a spot in the Guinness World Records for earning a record fortune on a quiz shows...$2.52 million. Jennings didn't learn all of his information in school. He learned by exercising curiosity every day of his life. Jennings says those who have a thirst for knowledge live far more interesting lives. We have to agree.

Solomon mentions the pain of being goaded by wisdom. It's like exercising for the first time when you are terribly out of shape. It hurts! Exercising breaks down muscles, wounding them, so they can heal themselves and come back stronger than before. Solomon says the acquisition of wisdom is like a nail-studded board poking you in the hiney...that'll get you up and moving!

Let's see if we can get up and moving...from the couch, from your bed (in the morning), or whatever you tend to go for vegetation! Try something new this week to "take your mind to the gym." Here are some of our favorites: 

• Do a crossword puzzle.
• Try sudoku.
• Read a "self-help" book (nonfiction)
• Watch a TED talk.

Action Step
Set aside a portion of each day to "take your mind to the gym." Not just for today or a week...as a lifelong habit.