Letter of Abraham Lincoln to His Son’s Teacher
The Letter of Abraham Lincoln to His Son’s Teacher is a classic that none can deny. However, some argue that the letter was not written by Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States of America.
Who Wrote The Letter of Abraham Lincoln to His Son’s Teacher?
Some reasons given for the disagreement on who wrote the letter hinge on people’s perception of Abraham Lincoln’s sense of responsibility. Many believe that Lincon was responsible and would not pass his responsibility for raising his child to a teacher. Others believe that the letter does not reflect the manner of the President of the United States of America. A sect also believes the letter does not follow Abraham Lincon’s writing style.
Those who argue that Abraham Lincoln wrote the letter say that the depth of thought reflected in the letter is like him. Some also believe that the letter is appropriate for the purpose it was written. The letter was addressed to the teacher on Lincoln’s Son’s first day at school, or so it is believed.
Besides the group that argues for and against the motion, there is yet one other group. This sect believes the letter was indeed written by Abraham Lincoln. However, it has been rewritten or edited over time.
Here is a copy I found in an old paper, which many believe is the original piece. Enjoy it, and tell us what you think in the comment section below.
Letter of Abraham Lincoln to His Son’s Teacher
He will have to learn, I know, that all men are not just, all men are not true.
But teach him also 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.
Teach him 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.
Teach him the wonder of books, but also give him quiet time to ponder the eternal mystery of birds in the sky, bees in the sun, and flowers on a green hillside.
In school, teach him that it is far more honourable to fail than to cheat…
Teach him to have faith in his own ideas, even if everyone tells him that they are wrong…
Teach him to be gentle with gentle people and tough with tough people.
Try to give him the strength not to follow the crowd when everyone is getting on the bandwagon.
Teach him to listen to all men…, but teach him also to filter all he hears on a screen of truth and take only the good that comes through.
Teach him how to laugh when he is sad…
Teach him there is no shame in tears.
Teach him to close his ears to a howling mob and to stand and fight if he thinks he’s 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 sublime faith in his creator and faith in himself too because then he will have faith in mankind.
This is a big order, but please, see what you can do… He is such a fine little fellow, my son.