A Calendar of Wisdom

Synopsis

Over the last fifteen years of his life, Tolstoy collected and published the maxims of some of the world's greatest masters of philosophy, religion and literature, adding his own contributions to various questions that preoccupied him in old age, such as faith and existence, as well as matters of everyday life. Banned in Russia under Communism, A Calendar of Wisdom was Tolstoy's last major work, and one of his most popular both during and after his lifetime. This new translation by Roger Cockrell will offer today's generation of readers the chance to discover, day by day, these edifying and carefully selected pearls of wisdom.

Summary

Chapter One

In Chapter One of A Calendar of Wisdom, the author, Leo Tolstoy, begins by exploring the link between suffering and wisdom. He explains that acquiring wisdom does not come easily but is a process of trials and errors. He suggests that the greatest wisdom is often found in those who have suffered the most, such as a slave or a beggar. As an example, Tolstoy recounts the story of a slave who worked for the family of a wealthy general. Despite his suffering, the slave was able to teach the general's daughter a valuable lesson about life. Through this example, Tolstoy shows how pain and suffering can lead to great insight and wisdom.

Chapter Two

In Chapter Two of A Calendar of Wisdom, Tolstoy looks at the attitude people take towards life. He argues that to lead a successful and happy life, people must be able to appreciate each moment and be present in the moment. He provides an example where a peasant farmer is able to find joy in a hard and difficult life simply because he is conscious of the beauty of his surroundings. Through this example, Tolstoy illustrates the importance of perspective and of being mindful of the present moment.

Chapter Three

In Chapter Three of A Calendar of Wisdom, Tolstoy examines the pursuit of wealth and power and why it can often be a futile path. He argues that material wealth and social status do not necessarily make a person wise or happy. He provides an example of a nobleman who, despite having a great deal of wealth and power, finds himself feeling empty and unfulfilled. Through this example, Tolstoy examines how the pursuit of wealth does not always bring happiness.

Chapter Four

In Chapter Four of A Calendar of Wisdom, Tolstoy analyzes the power of forgiveness. He argues that the ability to forgive is essential in fostering peace and love. He cites a biblical story where a priest forgives a thief despite the thief's actions being sinful. Through this example, Tolstoy highlights the incredible power of forgiveness and how it can help to bring people closer together.

Chapter Five

In Chapter Five of A Calendar of Wisdom, Tolstoy discusses the power of faith. He argues that faith can be a source of strength and courage, even in the darkest of times. To illustrate this, he recounts the story of a devout Christian whose faith helps him to overcome his fear of being persecuted. Through this example, Tolstoy shows the power of faith to bring hope in times of despair.