04 December 2013

Quote of the Day

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men and Citizens. … [R]eason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

Let it simply be asked, where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice?

It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to every species of free government. Who that is a sincere friend to it can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric?
~ President George Washington's farewell address upon leaving office (1797)

10 comments:

CottonLady said...

Thanks, as true now as it was then.

Rev. Paul said...

Not only true, but topical, CottonLady. His remarks are pointedly accurate in describing the elected officials of the last half-century, and especially the current crop.

Old NFO said...

True, and definitely topical!!!

Rev. Paul said...

Absolutely, NFO; thanks.

SENIOR said...

Excellent quote from George.

Rev. Paul said...

Thank you!

drjim said...

Anybody who says the Founding Fathers couldn't predict the future is STOOOPID!

They knew what could happen, and gave us our Constitution with the Bill of Rights to keep government in check.

Unfortunately they couldn't give us something to give us all a good swift kick in the pants when we needed it to stop the madness that's going on now.

"A Republic, madam, if you can keep it!.

Rev. Paul said...

Jim, it sounds as if you're channeling one of my private rants. I agree with every word.

ProudHillbilly said...

Oh, for the return of leaders like Washington!

Rev. Paul said...

PH, those are few & far between. Dang it.