Our Inspiration
Abraham Lincoln's letter to his son's headmaster
"My son will have to learn I know, that all men are not just, all men are not true. But teach him that
for every scoundrel there is a hero; that for every selfish politician, there is a dedicated leader.
Teach him that for every enemy there is a friend.
It will take time, I know, but teach him, if you can, that a dollar earned is of far more value than five
found.
Teach him to learn to lose and also to enjoy winning. Steer him away from envy, if you can.
Teach him the secret of quiet laughter. Let him learn early that the bullies are the easiest to lick.
Teach him, if you can, the wonder of books... but also give him quiet time to ponder over the
eternal mystery of birds in the sky, bees in the sun and flowers on a green hill side.
In school teach him it is far more honorable to fail than to cheat. Teach him to have faith in his own
ideas, even if everyone tells him they are wrong.
Teach him to be gentle with gentle people and tough with the tough. Try to give my son the
strength not to follow the crowd when everyone is getting on the band wagon.
Teach him to listen to all men. But teach him also to filter all the hears on a screen of truth and take
only the good that comes through. Teach him, if you can, how to laugh when he is sad. Teach him
there is no shame in tears.
Teach him to scoff at cynics and to beware of too much sweetness. Teach him to sell his brawn and
brain to the highest bidders; but never to put a price tag on his heart and soul.
Teach him to close his ears to a howling mob... and to stand and fight if he thinks he is right. Treat
him gently; but do not cuddle him because only the test of fire makes fine steel. Let him have the
courage to be impatient, let him have the patience to be brave.
Teach him always to have the sublime faith in himself because then he will always have the
sublime faith in mankind.
This is a big order, but see what you can do...
He is such a fine little fellow, my son".
This great man's vision is an inspiration for us.