Service, seems to be that very thing which diverts one’s attention away from oneself, and to another. It also seems to be the very thing which safeguards one from becoming self-absorbed, prideful, and vain. Thus, I think it also makes sense, for a rational man, to learn reasoning. For is it not by reasoning, that we begin to think not of ourselves, but of others; and indeed, the greater picture by which we are a part of? Surely, all of creation can be investigated, and be given our attention by our reasoning.
It seems that the lack of logic, the lack of cultivating the intellect, leaves one to do nothing else than to become trapped in one’s own concerns, and thoughts. Therefore, I reason that sharpening the intellect predisposes a rational mind to perceive the larger picture, and give another the charity, dignity, and benefit of the doubt, that he deserves as a fellow person. It appears that there are only two ways this can come about: extraordinary grace from God, or the ordinary labor of philosophy.
EAR