This was in my 9th or 10th grade syllabus. What a great poem. But I don't agree with all the letters in it, but I dig the spirit.

For example, if you risk everything you have, how does that affect your family if it is material possessions that you are risking. I get it when it's all your reputation if you deeply believe in something.

Another place, it says-

> nor talk too wise

It tells you too be humble when talking with others, do not let your knowledge or wisdom known. But how does this affect your students when you are a professor?

For me personally, I love being around accomplished, wise people who love to talk. I get to learn so much.

You have to be a good listener to make these sort of people open up, but no matter what there were 2-3 people in my life who wouldn't open up- to anyone- due to humility and shyness.

You can't learn from them.