Attaining Wisdom

A young man once asked Socrates, “How can I attain wisdom?”

“Come with me,” replied Socrates.

He took the lad to a river, pushed his head under water, and held it there until the boy was gasping for air. He then released the lad and waited for him to regain his composure. Then, Socrates asked him.

“What did you desire most when you were underwater?”

“Air”, said the lad. “Did you think of anything else?” asked Socrates.

“Are you joking?” the lad remarked. “How could I?” Socrates smiled at him and said…