#1: The Classics Teach Us Human Nature.
The classics give us
a glimpse into each of these basic human instincts.
In fact, the thing
which makes a classic great is glaring insight into basic human nature.
Ultimately, as you study the classics, you learn about your own personal
nature.
Learning through
experience is good, but it is often better to learn from someone else's
experiences and build on them.
We hope a baby will learn from his
parents not to touch a hot stove, even though the actual experience
would certainly have impact.
If we
will let them, the classics can teach us lessons without the pain of
repeating certain mistakes ourselves.
They can show us correct choices
which will get us where we want to go.
At a deeper level,
knowing how others think, feel and act allows us to predict behavior and
lead accordingly.
We can develop empathy, compassion, wisdom and
self-discipline without subjecting our relationships to a more painful
learning curve.
This
is invaluable to the entrepreneur, parent, community leader or
statesman.
People with experience have been through certain patterns
many times and know what to anticipate.
The classics can provide us with
many such experiences.
