Self-Reliance

<strong>A Q&A with Ralph Waldo Emerson</strong> <br /> <br /> For nearly 200 years, Ralph Waldo Emerson's Self-Reliance has been the preeminent book on independence, non-conformity, and trusting oneself. At The Domino Project, we believe that Emerson's words are just as relevant today as they were in 1841. Read on: <br /><br /><strong>The Domino Project:</strong> There has been much talk of the failing education system in America, and even new groundbreaking movies such as <i>Waiting for Superman</i> and <i>Race to Nowhere</i> documenting these failings. Do you have any suggestions on how we fix this broken system? <p></p> <p><strong>Ralph Waldo Emerson, in Self-Reliance:</strong> The intellect is vagabond, and our system of education fosters restlessness. Our minds travel when our bodies are forced to stay at home. We imitate; and what is imitation but the travelling of the mind?</p> <p><strong>Question:</strong> Society's quick pace makes it hard to focus and concentrate. What can one to do achieve serenity today?</p> <p><strong>Emerson:</strong> Nothing can bring you peace but yourself. Nothing can bring you peace but the triumph of principles.</p> <p><strong>Question:</strong> Many in society are afraid of of being themselves and speaking authentically. Why do you think that is?</p> <p><strong>Emerson:</strong> Man is timid and apologetic; he is no longer upright; he dares not say ‘I think,’ ‘I am,’ but quotes some saint or sage. He is ashamed before the blade of grass or the blowing rose. These roses under my window make no reference to former roses or to better ones; they are for what they are; they exist with God today. There is no time to them. There is simply the rose; it is perfect in every moment of its existence.</p> <p><strong>Question:</strong> What is the k