Learning

Of the numerous gifts God has given to mankind, one of those gifts is our ability to learn. It is wonderful to witness the rapid learning experience of a toddler, for example.  They are consumed with learning because it is their nature to want to learn.  They learn by sight, by sound, and by doing.  Often they fail at first, but soon they master a particular task.  Then it's on to something new.  It is amazing the progress they make over a short period of time.  For most children learning becomes formalized in a school setting and continues until they reach adulthood.  Sadly, for some, broad learning begins to become a low priority once they settle into a career, then slowly declines over time until very little growth in new knowledge is taking place.

There is a wonderful quote from one of the truly great painters/sculptors, Michelangelo, at age 87 which I think captures the value he put on this subject:

                   "I am still learning."

Pablo Casal, the great cellist, was asked why at age 85, he continued to practice five hours a day.  He replied, "Because I think I'm getting better."

We should all keep on learning.