What Is Success?
Recently, I wrote about Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) in “Ralph Waldo Emerson, Hinduism, The Old Testament, and the Oversoul.” As I was straightening up my office to get ready for the new year, I came across a quote of Emerson’s about success that I’ve saved since I found it many years ago. Reading it again, I was struck by how wise and helpful his words about success are, and I wanted to share them.
Emerson defined success as
To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the
affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure
the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others;
to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch
or a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.
I have nothing to add except my admiration and appreciation.
