Wisdom and Wit from Ben Franklin

Posted on

July 4th, 2011

by

I am currently reading a biography of Benjamin Franklin.  One aspect of the text that I have found entertaining and enlightening are Franklin’s endless quotes and maxims that each offer wisdom and wit.  Here are a few of my favorites so far:

  • Fish and guest both stink after 3 days
  • Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise
  • He’s a fool that makes his doctor his heir
  • Necessity never made a good bargain
  • A good example is the best sermon
  • Diligence is the mother of good luck
  • God helps those who help themselves

The author explains that many of these were adapted from common sayings or previous works – and most were published by Franklin in the 1720’s, nearly 300 years ago.  Timeless knowledge from a founding father that we can enjoy on this 4th of July.

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