Quote of the Chapter

I'm reading Spiritual Roots of Human Relations by Stephen Covey. In chapter 2, entitled "Six Days of Creation: Process of Growth and Development" he points out that, while the physical development is obvious, spiritual, social, and emotional growth is less visible. We can't pretend to be more than we are and trying to compete with those who are playing with skills earned in days 1-5, when we've only advanced through day 3, leads to frustration and artifice.

"No bypassing, no shortcutting, no pretending or cultivating appearances, no making impressions will compensate. "There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven . . . " ( 2.) This involves accepting the fact that I am at day two and refusing to pretend to be anywhere else. If you don't let a teacher know at what level you are—by asking a question, or revealing your ignorance—you will not learn or grow. You cannot pretend for long, for you will eventually be found out. This admission of our ignorance is often the first step in our education." (p. 10)