Do all the other things, the ambitious things – travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having it tested for monkey poop) – but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness. Do those things that incline you toward the big questions, and avoid the things that would reduce you and make you trivial. That luminous part of you that exists beyond personality – your soul, if you will – is as bright and shining as any that has ever been. Bright as Shakespeare’s, bright as Gandhi’s, bright as Mother Teresa’s. Clear away everything that keeps you separate from this secret luminous place. Believe it exists, come to know it better, nurture it, share its fruits tirelessly.
And someday, in 80 years, when you’re 100, and I’m 134, and we’re both so kind and loving we’re nearly unbearable, drop me a line, let me know how your life has been. I hope you will say: It has been so wonderful.
- George Saunder's speech at Syracuse University to the Class of 2013
read it in its entirety here on the NYT.
Photograph: My last day in Nepal, saying 'until next time' to some of the most radiant women I've ever met who showed me what it really means to find everything in the simple things. Their kindness, for opening their hearts and homes to a stranger, will stay with me forever.
And someday, in 80 years, when you’re 100, and I’m 134, and we’re both so kind and loving we’re nearly unbearable, drop me a line, let me know how your life has been. I hope you will say: It has been so wonderful.
- George Saunder's speech at Syracuse University to the Class of 2013
read it in its entirety here on the NYT.
Photograph: My last day in Nepal, saying 'until next time' to some of the most radiant women I've ever met who showed me what it really means to find everything in the simple things. Their kindness, for opening their hearts and homes to a stranger, will stay with me forever.
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