I don't hold much enthusiasm for President's Day. I think that Abraham Lincoln and George Washington each deserve their own day but obviously, it comes down to money -- as do most things in our country today.
Today is George Washington's birthday. "The Father of Our Country" had some excellent advice that has stood the test of time. I think they are worthy of consideration in these troubled times. (Too bad that the people who need them won't see them.) Here are some of his words that I've collected:
On government:
* The basis of our political system is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of government.
* Government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force; like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action.
On hypocrisy:
* The propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right which Heaven itself has ordained.
On honor:
* Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company.
On war:
* War - An act of violence whose object is to constrain the enemy, to accomplish our will
On the First Amendment:
* If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.
On Patriotism:
* Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.
On laws:
* Laws made by common consent must not be trampled on by individuals.
* In general I esteem it a good maxim, that the best way to preserve the confidence of the people durably is to promote their true interest.
On charity:
* Let your heart feel for the afflictions and distress of everyone, and let your hand give in proportion to your purse.
On power:
* Arbitrary power is most easily established on the ruins of liberty abused to licentiousness.
On honesty:
* I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an "Honest Man".
Hope y'all are having a great day!!!!!!
Happy Blogging!!!!
Kay
Nice post Kay...Happy Birthday George.
ReplyDeleteGood Post! How far we have come since our 1st president and not for the good. To bad the senate isn't made to put these quotes to memory.
ReplyDeleteI don't believe in the 'art of war' for it tells you to keep your enemies close. Well, if you value your reputation then you don't want a bad guy around you. My father was old school and he believed (& taught me) to have good people for friends just like George said. And yes, you will be alone sometimes :)
Thanks for the timely advice. I esp. like: "In general I esteem it a good maxim, that the best way to preserve the confidence of the people durably is to promote their true interest."
ReplyDeleteGreat sign in your sidebar to support Wisconsin workers. I took it!
ReplyDelete''''''''better alone than in bad company....I like that!
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