I came across Jef Mallet’s comic strip Frazz by accident while surfing the internet about a year ago and have been a devoted reader since. Although there has been some comparison (and criticism) of Mallet’s characters to those of Bill Watterson the writing is exceptional in its content and scope. (Read this interview with Jef.)

Frazz is a simple guy, down to earth, well-read and sees life a journey. He takes joy from physical and mental exercise and challenges people to envision life beyond the status quo. Frazz is a polymath.

I want to be like Frazz. (Don’t misinterpret this: I want to be the best “Ben” I can. It’s the only thing I’m really qualified to do.) I have many things in common with Frazz: cycling, running and reading, but I want to become a Renaissance man? I want to begin enjoying life on a deeper level and rid myself of the self-inflicted stress associated with daily life. I want to expand knowledge about philosophy, sociology, logic, arts and music. I want to grow as a person.

I am reminded of the words of Abigail Adams: Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence. I’m encouraging you to learn something new today and apply it to your life. (Wow! From Jef Mallet to Abigail Adams in four paragraphs.)