Bliss Not Ignorance

In 1742, Thomas Gray wrote, "Where ignorance is bliss, 'tis folly to be wise." For some, no truer words were ever written. It's easy to be ignorant, willfully or not. But, bliss would seem to indicate a heavenly state where everything is roses and unicorns. But, as our history would seem to say, ignorance leads to fear. Ignorance leads to intolerance. Ignorance leads to subjugation of others less powerful. Its caused witch hunts and worship of golden calves. Its created cycles of hatred that are almost impossible to shake. I saw this sign on 3rd Street and 2nd Avenue and it stopped me dead in my tracks. How wonderful to have this erroneous phrase finally put to rest. So I share this sentiment with you today and leave you with this imperative. Learn. Learn everything you can about every subject you can. Be a dabbler. Because ignorance should not be a state of being you can hide behind, and it's certainly not paradise.