Ever since learning about the progressive and rebellious philosophy in high school, I have been a big fan of everything Transcendental. In an effort to proclaim and solidify my place in the ways of transcendentalism (whatever that means), I undertook the endeavor of reading Thoreau's Walden. This was 5 years ago, and I am almost done with it! The reason for the delay: I allow myself to only read it while outdoors.
More recently, I came across a quote by fellow transcendentelow, Ralph Waldo Emerson:
Success
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 even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.
I found this to be poignant in the sense that it cast an affable light on success. It speaks nothing of monetary compensation or notoriety, but instead focuses on virtuosity.
I have always strongly believed that quotes such as these should be cheesely adorned and hung on the wall where it can be read by everyone, everyday. So...
I first created a base template I could trace over:
I then tried my hand at different designs. Here are a few I came up with:
This is part one of two. Look forward to another transcendental quote (and hopefully work of art) in the near future.
