Lately, I've been reading Benjamin Graham's autobiography, Benjamin Graham: The Memoirs of the Dean of Wall Street. It's rare to see someone openly reflect on their failed marriage and extramarital affairs, and Graham's honesty and candor are truly admirable.
For me, the most valuable part of reading biographies lies in learning from the subject's failures and observing their attitude toward those failures. Most biographies focus on "events" and "methods," exploring the logic and techniques for solving problems. However, these insights are limited to tangible and strategic levels. It’s only when a biography fully portrays the individual, revealing their private struggles and inner thoughts, that it unveils the intangible wisdom and philosophy behind their life.
Few people truly live with ease and authenticity. Many may appear carefree, but in reality, it’s just another form of avoidance or denial. Only by fully accepting and deeply understanding oneself can one live honestly and without burdens.
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