I have always been quite fond of aphorisms- those snappy sayings that pack a lot of meaning into a few pithy words.  One of my favorites I learned from my Chief Resident in Plastic Surgery when I was the junior. The wise man learns from the fool, but it is the fool who does not learn from the wise man.

I consider myself fairly accomplished academically- The Johns Hopkins University, Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, Columbia Presbyterian trained, and certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgeons.  I try not to be foolish, and that is why I try to learn from everyone.

Some of the smartest people I have met have had no formal education, no college degree, and may not have an eloquent way of expressing themselves.  That does not mean that they were not some of the best teachers I have ever had.

I have learned about business, relationships, raising children, being kind and charitable, and appreciating what I have been blessed to accomplish.  I suggest you really cultivate the skill of recognizing true wisdom in everyone, and learning what you can.  Don’t be a fool.