why are some people ashamed of their own ideas? why do they remain guarded and insecure even around the people who care most about them? why are they embarrassed? don’t they know that to be talked about in social circles is an honor, never a disgrace? are they arrogant enough to believe that people really talk about them anyway? why do you make a big deal out of meaningless notions of privacy? why are you so eager to share your thoughts but so ashamed once they pass from your mouth? give thanks for your eavesdroppers! rejoice in everyone who reads your handwriting over your shoulder! they prove that you have something interesting to say. don’t you know that the open exchange of ideas is one of our few worthwhile pursuits? if you don’t have faith in your own advice, then why should I?