Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) was an American essayist, poet, and philosopher. Emerson is known as one of the leaders of the transcendentalist movement, which reached its height in mid-nineteenth century New England. With its emphasis on the dignity of the individual, equality, hard work, and respect for nature, Emerson’s work remains influential and pertinent to this day.