Sloppy language and sloppy ways go together. Those who are truly educated have learned more than the sciences, the humanities, law, engineering, and the arts. They carry with them a certain polish that marks them as loving the better qualities of life, a culture that adds luster to the mundane world of which they are apart, a patina that puts a quiet glow on what otherwise might be base metal.
Interpretation
Education transcends formal learning and encompasses an appreciation for the finer qualities of life.
In this quote, Gordon B. Hinckley emphasizes that true education involves not only mastering various fields such as science and the arts, but also developing a refined character and appreciation for the beauty of life. He suggests that a well-rounded education cultivates a certain sophistication and polish that distinguishes individuals who cherish higher qualities, transforming the ordinary into something more valuable and meaningful.
In practice
In a commencement speech to highlight the importance of holistic education.
You can be excellent in every way. You can be first class. There is no need for you to be a scrub. Respect yourself. Do not feel sorry for yourself. Do not dwell on unkind things others may say about you. Polish and refine whatever talents the Lord has given you. Go forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, but with great and strong purpose in your heart. Love life and look for its opportunities.
There cannot be peace where there is not trust; there cannot be freedom where there is not loyalty
I have seen miracles in my time, my brothers and sisters. The greatest miracle of all, I believe, is the transformation that comes into the life of a man or a woman who accepts the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and tries to live it in his or her life.
People who carry in their hearts a strong conviction concerning the living reality of the Almighty and their accountability to Him for what they do with their lives are far less likely to become enmeshed in problems that inevitably weaken society.
Don’t be gloomy. Do not dwell on unkind things. Stop seeking out the storms and enjoy more fully the sunlight. Even if you are not happy, put a smile on your face. ‘Accentuate the positive.’ Look a little deeper for the good. Go forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, with great and strong purpose in your heart. Love life.
There is no substitute for virtue. Keep your thoughts virtuous. Rise above the filth that's all around you in this world and stand tall in strength and virtue. You can do this and you will be happier for it for as long as you live. God bless you in cherishing, developing and holding on to this great gift, the quality of personal virtue.
History has proven that each generation of Howard graduates will forge the way forward for our country and our world.
Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in.
I believe kids shouldn't be taught Shakespeare. They should experience it first by seeing a great production.
Like our physical bodies, our memory becomes out of shape. As children, we are constantly learning new experiences, but by the time we reach our 20s, we start to lead a more sedentary life both mentally and physically. Our lives become routine, and we stop challenging our brains, and our memory starts to suffer.
When you're a student of poetry, you're lucky if you don't realize how untalented you are until you get a little better. Otherwise, you would just stop.
Go to a job interview and tell and employer that you can recite the 17 times table; they don't care. Why are we still teaching it?
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