Editor,

Thank you for keeping the freedom of press strong in Logan! My curiosity recently turned toward Thomas Jefferson. Some believe he was the most intelligent person to hold the office of president of the United States.

Here are a few things I found that may benefit your readers:

1. He was an avid reader. Someone said he preferred studying to spending time with friends. Others have said spending time reading good books is like spending time with the greatest thinkers who ever lived. I think I understand why Thomas Jefferson enjoyed studying.

2. He studied ancient Greek culture. Some have said that the ancient Greeks achieved a level of civilization that no other civilization has achieved. That includes our current civilization. Even today we still follow many of the ancient ways. Doctors pledge to follow the oath penned by Hippocrates. Many still drink wine to improve their health as Hippocrates instructed. Thomas Jefferson drank three glasses a day.

We still study the ancient architecture because we haven't achieved their level of sophistication even with our advanced technology. Thomas Jefferson used ancient concepts in his building designs. We teach myths to our children that were created by the ancients, but reworded to new purposes.

3. He was willing to die for his beliefs. His Declaration of Independence could have cost him his life. It did cost many theirs. He followed the example set by Socrates and then by Jesus. Thomas Jefferson was not perfect. He left many unpaid debts when he died, but he did spend his time well. He improved the lives of many including ours. I believe it would be wise to follow his example.

Mike Jarrells

Prattville, Ala.