Wim Hof-This is an exploration of how memory techniques can shape character. Based on a lesson between Grandpa Bill and his granddaughter Adah, this experience shows how daily mnemonics—mental shortcuts—can help us practice complex virtues like empathy and generosity until they become second nature.A Lesson in the LibraryThe journey begins with a simple, everyday moment: a college student struggling with a problem, and a grandfather's gentle guidance. This is the story that sparked the lesson.
The ObservationAdah was in the campus library, hunched over her laptop. A classmate she didn't know well was at the next table, staring blankly at a complex Java coding problem. Adah saw the classmate's shoulders slump, and a frustrated sigh escaped their lips.
The PromptGrandpa Bill sat down beside her. "That look on her face... it reminds me of a lesson we need to create a mnemonic for today. Today's lesson is a 'two-in-one' special on Empathy and Generosity."
The InsightUsing the mnemonics he provided, Adah looked at her classmate again. She realized the stress wasn't just about a coding problem—it was about frustration and feeling lost. She saw the problem from a new perspective.
The ActionRemembering the two mental images, Adah turned to her classmate. "Hey," she said softly, "that's a tough one. I just learned that same code. Do you want me to help you debug it?" Her classmate looked up, surprised and relieved. The lesson was complete.The Mnemonic ToolkitGrandpa Bill's method combines two powerful memory systems: the Major System for converting numbers to sounds, and the Person-Action-Object (PAO) system for creating vivid, memorable stories.The Major System: Numbers to SoundsThis system links numbers (0-9) to specific consonant sounds. This is the foundation for creating memorable words from numbers. Click a number below to see its sound.0123456789Select a number to learn its sound.The PAO System: Creating the StoryNext, we use those sounds to create a memorable Person-Action-Object (PAO) trio. This turns an abstract concept into a concrete, visual story. Click the cards to see how Adah's mnemonics were built.VirtueEmpathy(Click to deconstruct)Number 3 = 'M' Sound
Person: MedicAction: MappingObject: a Mood"A Medic is Mapping a Mood."VirtueGenerosity(Click to deconstruct)Number 9 = 'P'/'B' Sound
Person: PilotAction: ProvidingObject: a Pair of Helping Hands"A Pilot is Providing a Pair of Helping Hands."Put it into PracticeNow it's your turn. Read the scenario below and think about how empathy and generosity can be applied. Click the buttons to reveal how Adah might approach the situation using her mental toolkit.The Scenario:You overhear a friend talking about how stressed they are. They have a big presentation coming up, but they're also working a part-time job and are completely overwhelmed and falling behind schedule.
Apply Empathy
Apply GenerosityEmpathy in Action (The Medic):Instead of just hearing "I'm stressed," you try to map their mood. You recognize it's not just about the presentation; it's the feeling of being trapped and exhausted. You understand their perspective beyond the surface-level problem.Generosity in Action (The Pilot):Knowing how they feel, you offer a pair of helping hands. You could offer to run through the presentation with them, help proofread their slides, or even just bring them a coffee. The help you provide is specific because your empathy guided you.". This storybook is for an 18-year-old reader and explores how memory techniques can shape character.
