Theoretical physicist and cosmologist Stephen Hawking suffered from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, an illness that ravaged his body since the age of 21. However, his gentle soul, forceful mind, and great heart existed in a state of grace for 55 more years. Stephen Hawking authored 122 books. The most popular is A Brief History of Time.
In technology’s swift dispersal of information, it’s easy to be swept into negativity and tribalism. Hawking’s example informs us of a way to remain centered and calm. These seven quotes inspire:
- “Nothing is better than reading and gaining more and more knowledge.”
- “I like physics, but I love cartoons.”
- “Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”
- “Government works best under the glare of public scrutiny. Absent such scrutiny, abuses occur.”
- “The quality I would most like to magnify is empathy. It brings us together in a peaceful, loving state.”
- “However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”
- “You cannot understand the glories of the universe without believing there is some Supreme Power behind it.”
I conjecture that Hawking embraced a way of being that allows an individual to exist in balance: letting the heart lead with positive emotions so the brain can function objectively whether examining empirical reality or observing the human condition.
The facts, yes, the facts + empathy expressed by the heart = complete human being.
Here’s a question to ask when facing a situation: What would Stephen Hawking do?
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