"There Isn't Any Such Thing as the Past"

“History is mostly, it seems to me, a lesson in proportions” (David McCullough). This quote is a very strong and insightful reflection on the subject of history. What David was trying to convey to us is that we should keep an open mind and learn from the lessons of numerous topics, perspectives and eras of history. One must be able to look at both the positive and negative aspects that historic events have had on life-that the people of the past were living their lives in the present, just as we are doing now. There is no such thing as the past, we are still learning and continue to learn from the wisdom of previous generations, and utilize their knowledge to make strategic improvements for the future. Without the previous forefathers, artists, philosophers, engineers, and evolutionists, we would not have made nearly the progress that we have been able to achieve today. History prepares us and guides us for the future.

David McCullough’s interview with Roger Mudd opened my mind in how to study and understand history. History is such a broad topic of wonder, accomplishment, imagination, innovation, creation, and possibility. We shouldn’t always focus on all of the “great” people in history who were accepted by society but also the people who actually made a difference, regardless of their particular value system. David gave me such a positive intake on what has occurred over time and how it’s really crucial that one learns about our predecessors who set the standards for society, how society has evolved over time and how much we have grown (or regressed) as a society. This has motivated me to consider a double major in education as well as in U.S. history. I desire to learn more and to discover new facts revealing greater wisdom and new opportunities. History helps one to grow as a person and to expand one’s horizons. Having the opportunity to discover, ponder, and explore new challenges with a foundation provided by lessons of the past gives me a sense of fulfillment that I wish to share with others in an educational and learning environment.