Maybe there is a reason for the required readings of Walden in high school. Like much of formal education, I viewed the readings of Thoreau as another box to check in the path of moving through grades. I was not impacted by this reading as a junior in high school as I allowed myself to believe it provided no value to me. Not even two years out in the “real world” has made me aware of the incredible value that Thoreau’s writing delivers.
I believe that individuals must discover Thoreau through their own experiences in order to truly be impacted by his teachings. Through constant dreaming, exploring, and devouring wisdom, I heard the above quote which moved me, but only briefly upon discover. Years later, without having written it down, or associated it with Thoreau, this quote continually surfaces as I wonder what is possible for my life. Amidst my morning routine of listening to positive and powerful individuals such as Les Brown and Jim Rohn, I heard Wayne Dyer speak of the quote above, which sunk into my mentality deeper now than I’ve experienced before. Upon hearing this quote again, a tremendous inclination to delve into the wisdom of Thoreau and other great minds has taken hold of me. School requires an introduction to Henry David Thoreau, but the individual discovery of his wisdom is the way to truly be impacted for a lifetime. Keep dreaming, keep exploring, and continually expose yourself to tremendous minds!
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