So wise so young, they say, do never live long.

Internet is not only bad, like a lot of people my age think. It connects people. And it can be very educating, too. One site I regularly look at for inspiration is the forum that goes with The Free Dictionary . There is thread discussing the "Quote of the Day" and I want to share with you today's quote and my thoughts.

So wise so young, they say, do never live long. (William Shakespeare, 1564-1616)
It is from "Richard III", the play about a man who murders one of his brothers on the way to becoming king. He has been made guardian of his (dead) older brother's sons, who are heirs to the throne. He plots to kill them, too, so in this scene he tells them that they will reside in the Tower until the coronation of the older one of them. He, the Prince of Wales, does not like this idea, but agrees, and then Richard says these words as an aside.Of course, he usurps the crown for himself and kills the two princes.

What do these words tell us in general ? You shouldn't be too smart at an early age. People don't like other people outdoing them in every field, particularly intellectually, and particularly adults don't like youngsters to be better than they are. It could become dangerous, if intelligence is not based on life experience and knowledge of people's minds. The young genius may be seen as a threat and the more powerful adult might crush him to pieces.

The truly intelligent youngster learns when to shut up and watch and learn.

The truly great adult appreciates gifted young people, carefully guides them and helps them to survive.