Benjamin Franklin on Life, Death and Being Prepared

Nov 8, 2013 | 0 comments

Benjamin FranklinBenjamin Franklin was an amazing man of many talents, and a Freemason to boot!

From a MasonicWorld.com website citation: Printer, author, editor, inventor, scientist, diplomat; founder of schools, postal systems, government; ambassador, wit, speaker; philosopher, politician and Freemason, he was not only the amazing intellect, the Voltaire of Colonial America, but one of the most complex and gifted men of all times.

He was the Francis Bacon of his age, far ahead of the years in which he lived, and as such, the subject of criticism from those who did not understand him.

He was also famous for his many bon mots, words of wisdom and witty quips. These are a select few that I used in my talk last night at the Mesa Lodge No. 68 of the Grand Lodge of New Mexico:

“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

“Some people die at 25 and aren’t buried until 75.”

Franklin also spoke these words in his later years at the funeral of a friend:

“We are spirits. That bodies should be lent us, while they can afford us pleasure, assist us in acquiring knowledge, or in doing good to our fellow creatures, is a kind and benevolent act of God.

When [our bodies] become unfit for these purposes and afford us pain instead of pleasure, instead of an aid become an encumbrance, and answer none of the intentions for which they were given, it is equally kind and benevolent, that a way is provided by which we may get rid of them. Death is that way.

Our friend and we were invited abroad on a party of pleasure, which is to last forever. His chair was ready first and he has gone before us. We could not all conveniently start together; and why should you and I be grieved at this, since we are soon to follow, and know where to find him.”

What words of wisdom! You can watch the entire 25-minute talk, “A Good Goodbye: Funeral Planning for Those Who Don’t Plan to Die,” though the YouTube link below:

Masonic Talk: A Good Goodbye

Make sure you are getting the most out of your lifetime, every single day. Talking about sex won’t make you pregnant, and talking about funerals won’t make you dead. Start a conversation today!

A Good Goodbye