Moral Perfection fail.

Why is it that every time I blog, I'm actually in Crerar supposedly writing a paper?
Anyways...

As a person, I am actually pretty easily impressed by things.
I gawk at physics professors and even grad students at work, I'm in awe of all of my own professors this quarter, and when people make intelligent comments in class, I do this 'nod of approval' thing which is totally lame but something I just can't help but do.

But I haven't been this impressed by anyone in a very very long time.

Ben Franklin.

I don't know how anybody can possibly be nerdier than me. I took an interest in something from civ class and read everything I could find on Franklin's life. He is just a remarkable human being. Mathematician, politician, statesman, writer, scientist, how one person could be so intellectually superior at everything is just beyond me. But what impressed me the most is his constant quest for improvement. Others thought the 13 virtues for Moral Perfection were hilarious, I thought they were ingenious. It is certainly very reminiscent of the preachings of Confucius and Mencius. Franklin admitted in his Autobiography that he never managed to achieve all of them. To commemorate his spirit, I decided to evaluate myself on the 13 virtues as outlined by Franklin.

1. Temperance
Eat not to Dullness. Drink not to Elevation.

Well, I certainly don't drink to elevation (except when in Singapore), but there are definitely times when I don't know why the fuck I am eating. Hmmm...

2. Silence
Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself. Avoid trifling Conversation.

Having a big mouth isn't one of my problems, but when I think of all the times I wasted gushing over football players or fashion or some movie or just nonsense...it seems that the content of my conversations are more trifling than substance. fail.

3. Order
Let all your Things have their Places. Let each Part of your Business have its Time.

If there is one thing I desperately need in my life. It's order. I am doing better now by rigorously following my planner, but life still isn't as orderly as I like.

4.Resolution
Resolve to perform what you ought. Perform without fail what you resolve.

I often make resolutions, but fail to keep them.

5.Frugality
Make no Expense but to do good to others or yourself: ie. Waste Nothing

I sincerely try.

6.Industry
Lose no Time. Be always employ'd in something useful. Cut off all unnecessary Actions.

Uh-oh, is blogging necessary? No. Is cranking out that civ paper necessary? Yes. THEN WTF AM I DOING?

7. Sincerity
Use no hurtful Deceit. Think innocently and justly, and if you speak; speak accordingly.

I may be many things, but I'm not a bitch. In fact, I am often too nice and see good in people that is actually nonexistent. This virtue is impractical for survival in modern society. Franklin fail.

8.Justice
Wrong non, by doing Injuries or omitting the Benefits that are your Duty.

see above.

9.Moderation
Avoid Extremes. Forbear resenting Injuries so much as you think they deserve.

Moderation, thanks to the Chineseness ingrained in my spirit, has always been something I abide in.

10. Cleanliness.
Tolerate no Uncleanness in Body, clothes or Habitation.

Personal hygiene isn't an issue, but I sense Franklin is telling me, "Go clean THY ROOM. NOW"

11. Tranquility.
Be not disturbed at Trifles, or Accidents common or unavoidable.

ZEN = god

12. Chastity
Rarely use Venery but for health of Offspring

Again, not a problem.

13. Humility.
Imitate Jesus and Socrates.

Considering Jesus was crucified and Socrates stoned to death for "corrupting the minds of youth", I don't really know what Franklin is getting at here. Most cryptic of all descriptions. Religious figures ain't my cup of tea, but I will happily imitate Socrates for his wit and courage. ^_^

Conclusion: I have A LONG WAY to go before achieving moral perfection. First step should probably be getting off the internet.