I have always been an avid reader of the essays of America’s foremost philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson. I find his ideas on life, nature and friendship like precious gems to treasure. His essays make the readers feel as if a wise elder brother is telling them so many beautiful things that would greatly help them in understanding life, nature, about other people and most of all in understanding themselves better.

The first thing I learned from Emerson is that life is an ecstasy and a God-given gift. The reason why some people find life dull is that they always think of their worries and anxieties.

Keeping the mind in tune with God and one’s life in tune with the universe is the key to happiness. The best way to do this is to see not only the beauty but also the spiritual aspect. Emerson wrote “There is some good in everyone. Find it!” Everyone of us has his good traits. We usually look for the worst in people. Let us not do this but instead look for the best in them and show appreciation.

Another lesson is the need for a person to have complete confidence in himself if he wants to succeed. The first secret of success is trusting oneself. We should value ourselves instead of understanding ourselves. “You are better than what you think you are!” said Emerson. We should do our best. We must try the difficult things even if we do not think we will succeed. At least, we tried and we should learn from our mistakes. So, the next time we try something, we will not be afraid of failing.

If someone contradicts us, we must stand our ground and be firm if we are on the right track. If necessary, we must take the risks and challenge the views of the people around us. But we should also be honest to see things from the point of view of the other person. If we are wrong, we should admit it quickly.

And the best lesson I learned from Ralph Waldo Emerson is his philosophy: “Remove fear; rely on your own inner resources. Trust life and it will repay your trust. You can do better than what you believe you can.”

Truly, Emerson’s principles and views are gems to treasure.