Teachers started recognizing me and praising me for being smart

In the journey of life, there are moments when recognition and praise serve as the winds that push the ship of the human spirit toward greater heights. Steve Wozniak, a master of the digital age, spoke with great clarity about this in his reflection: "Teachers started recognizing me and praising me for being smart in science and that made me want to be even smarter in science!" These words reveal a timeless truth—that the encouragement of others, especially those who mentor and guide, can ignite a fire within us, pushing us to strive for greater knowledge and achievement. Praise, when given with sincerity and wisdom, can transform potential into excellence, driving individuals to reach beyond what they thought possible.

Consider, O children of the future, the ancient practice of education in the great cities of old. The Greek philosophers understood well the power of mentorship and recognition. Socrates, though wise beyond measure, spent his days not simply imparting knowledge, but questioning and challenging the young minds around him. His students, such as Plato, were spurred to greater intellectual heights, not just by the questions Socrates asked, but by the praise and recognition he gave for their thoughts and ideas. In this way, mentorship was a two-way exchange—each student rising higher with every bit of recognition they received. Just as Wozniak felt the spark of inspiration from his teachers’ recognition, so too did the ancient scholars rise through the encouragement of those who came before them.

This power of praise and recognition is not confined to the ancient world. Think of the great minds of history, whose achievements were often shaped and nurtured by the recognition they received. Consider Isaac Newton, who, despite his solitary nature, was deeply influenced by the support and recognition he received from other scientists of his time. When he presented his ideas on gravity, the praise he received from those like Robert Hooke and Edmond Halley not only validated his work, but reinforced his belief in the potential of science to explain the mysteries of the universe. The recognition of his brilliance did not lead him to rest on his laurels, but to dive deeper into the world of discovery. Praise, when given with genuine understanding, fuels the thirst for more.

Yet, it is not just in the great minds of history where this lesson holds true. In your own life, O children of the future, consider the influence of a teacher or mentor who has guided you along your path. The most powerful force in shaping a young mind is the recognition of its potential. When a mentor or teacher praises your abilities, it serves not just as validation, but as a reminder that you are capable of achieving even greater things. Praise empowers you, lifting you to heights you may have once thought unattainable. Wozniak’s words are a reminder that the encouragement of others can transform self-doubt into confidence, and effort into achievement.

But the wisdom in Wozniak’s quote is not just about the praise itself, but about how it shapes our desire to grow. When we receive recognition, it often sparks a desire to prove ourselves further, to not only meet expectations but to surpass them. Wozniak’s experience shows that recognition is not just about feeling good in the moment—it is about fostering a deep, unquenchable drive to improve. Praise does not merely acknowledge past achievements; it pushes us forward, urging us to reach for more, to explore further, and to excel in ways we had not imagined.

O children of the future, take this lesson to heart: when you see the potential in others, when you witness the sparks of greatness, praise them. Just as the recognition of Wozniak’s abilities in science led him to greater heights, so too can your encouragement lead others to discover their full potential. Whether it be in the classroom, in the fields of art, or in the quiet corners of your communities, be the source of recognition and support. Praise not just for achievements, but for the effort, for the striving, for the willingness to reach beyond oneself.

And equally, do not wait for others to recognize your greatness. Recognize it in yourself, and let it fuel your journey. Let self-awareness be your guide as you strive to improve, to learn, and to grow, knowing that with every bit of progress, you are building upon the foundations laid by those who recognized your worth. Just as the recognition of Wozniak’s intellect drove him to greater scientific achievements, so too can your commitment to excellence and growth drive you to push past the boundaries of your own potential, creating a life of endless discovery and contribution to the world around you.