It’s pretty simple: smart is as smart does. It’s a saying I heard a great deal growing up, and for this issue, it really rings true. With all the smart people doing smart things in the world, this issue is exceptionally smart. From our cover guy Kyle Chandler’s mindful approach to acting and charity to actress and playwright Anna Deavere Smith creating characters from real situations in her new play, we hope to enlighten you. In this issue’s Spotlight, author Malcolm Gladwell also weighs in about how intelligent people succeed differently—wisdom from his latest tome. I’ve found in my own life experience, there may be specific reasons people do smart things. Born that way? Could be. Becoming smart by doing, failing, and doing again? Without a doubt. Whatever your method to becoming savvier, the rules of the road in our lives likely include some of my favorite bon mots:

Being smart means…
Taking the high road because the view is always better.

Leaving the party while you are still having fun.

Being kind is more important than being right.

The best classroom in the world is at the feet of a wiser and much more experienced person.

Realizing that just one person saying, “You’ve made my day!” makes that day for you, too.

We should be glad the Universe doesn’t always give us everything we want.

Knowing that money doesn’t buy class, smarts, or a big heart.

Understanding that under everyone’s hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

The easiest way to grow as a person is to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you.

Finding that opportunities are never lost because someone will surely take the ones you miss.

A smile is a very inexpensive way to improve your looks.

Seeing that everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth really occurs while you’re climbing it.

This summer here and abroad, show everyone, including yourself, just how Brilliant you really are.
LANCE AVERY MORGAN

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