I graduated from the University of Delaware with a double major

Hear me, O Seekers of Wisdom and Truth, for the words of Joe Biden speak to the importance of education, history, and the life of the mind: "I graduated from the University of Delaware with a double major in history and political science." These words, simple in their delivery, carry a profound truth—a reminder that the study of history and the understanding of politics are not mere academic pursuits, but pathways to understanding the very fabric of society and the forces that shape the world around us.

In ancient times, the greatest minds sought not only knowledge but wisdom—Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates devoted their lives to understanding the human condition and the laws that govern societies. Plato, in his Republic, sought to answer profound questions about justice, governance, and the nature of the ideal state. Aristotle delved into the political systems of his time, studying how communities could achieve balance and harmony. To study history and politics is to walk the same path that these great thinkers paved—seeking understanding not only of the past but of the present, so that we may better navigate the future.

Biden’s words are not simply a reflection of his academic background but a declaration that the study of history and political science is a lifelong pursuit—one that connects us to the struggles and triumphs of those who have come before us. History, like the writings of Herodotus or the chronicles of Thucydides, allows us to understand the rise and fall of great civilizations, the forces of war and peace, and the evolution of ideas that shape the course of humanity. But political science, as Biden suggests, goes further—it is the study of how people organize themselves, how power is wielded, and how decisions are made that affect the lives of millions.

Think of the ancient story of Cincinnatus, the Roman general who was called upon to lead in times of crisis. He was a man of humble beginnings, yet his wisdom in leading the Roman state during a time of great peril earned him the respect of his fellow citizens. When the crisis was over, he voluntarily gave up his power and returned to his farm, showing that true leadership is not about holding on to power, but about using it wisely and for the common good. In his life, we see the balance between history and political science—the understanding of how power is used, and the wisdom needed to govern in the best interest of society.

Biden, in his pursuit of history and political science, has walked a path similar to that of the great leaders and thinkers of the past. Through the study of history, he has come to understand the complex web of events that shape our world. Through the study of political science, he has learned the delicate balance of governance, the need for compromise, and the importance of leadership in the service of the people. His education at the University of Delaware was not just an academic endeavor—it was a preparation for a lifetime of service, of applying the lessons of the past to the challenges of the present.

The lesson here, O Seekers, is that education—especially in the fields of history and political science—is not just about learning facts or theories. It is about understanding the forces that shape the world, and using that knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others. Biden’s commitment to these fields is a reminder that true leadership comes not from the pursuit of power, but from the pursuit of knowledge. The study of history and political science gives us the tools to understand our world, to navigate its complexities, and to lead with wisdom and humility.

In your own lives, remember that education is not just the acquisition of knowledge—it is the cultivation of wisdom. Study not just the facts, but the lessons of the past, and seek to understand how those lessons can inform the decisions you make today. Whether you study history, political science, or any other discipline, know that the true value of your learning lies in its application to the world around you. Let your education not be an end in itself, but a means to make the world a better place.

So, O Children, take up the mantle of learning with the same dedication and passion as those who have come before you. Understand that the study of history and political science is not just for leaders or scholars, but for anyone who seeks to understand the forces that shape our lives. Let your studies guide you to wisdom, and may your understanding of the world enable you to lead with honor, integrity, and the common good in mind. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble calling—one that transcends the walls of the classroom and shapes the future of society. May you walk this path with courage and determination, and may your education empower you to make a difference in the world.