Ben Franklin, my hero

Since the writings of Ben Franklin are a cornerstone of the material I hope to bring together for a book, I will often quote him on this blog as a collection of important points and as a reminder of his contributions to the character of our country.  Ben inspired many to give time and effort to public service.   He followed the Puritan teachings of Cotton Mather and he recognized God and Jesus, not in a Baptist, Methodist or other denominational way, but in the spirit of the new American, worshipping God as the divine power, Jesus as the Savior and one of a new generation literate enough to read and discern history on his own. 

For much of the world, prior to this time, literacy was not widespread so the organized church taught and directed rituals and forms of worship rather than individuals seeking Jesus through Bible study themselves.

Franklin was in addition to being a printer and a writer, the instigator of lending libraries in America.  He is indeed my hero.

Franklin sought to cultivate his character by a plan of thirteen virtues, which he developed at age 20 (in 1726) and continued to practice in some form for the rest of his life. His autobiography lists his thirteen virtues as:

1. "Temperance. Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation."
2. "Silence. Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation."
3. "Order. Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time."
4. "Resolution. Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve."
5. "Frugality. Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing."
6. "Industry. Lose no time; be always employ'd in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions."
7. "Sincerity. Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly."
8. "Justice. Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty."
9. "Moderation. Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve."
10. "Cleanliness. Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloaths, or habitation."
11. "Tranquility. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable."
12. "Chastity. Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another's peace or reputation."
13. "Humility. Imitate Jesus and Socrates."