Over the coming months, I will be giving you excerpts from various figures from history. I actually planned, long ago, to compile many of these into a small gift book, but never did. I think each of these highlights some powerful aspects of living well. Obviously, the quotes from American history also can help us current citizens get a better grasp on the values and views of the former leaders. Enjoy the reflection.
George Washington
The following is the last paragraph in Washington’s official final report to the various Governors of the 13 newly established states addressing ideas and concerns related to the disbanding of the Revolutionary Army. He wrote a letter in June 1783 that was copied and sent to the different states. I first read his concluding prayer for the nation while visiting Mt. Vernon. We visited the tomb of Washington and were pleasantly surprised to arrive in time for the ceremony to place a wreath for the President.
The Curator in charge asked if I would mind reading a short prayer attributed to President Washington. I was honored of course and did so. After it was over, I asked if I could keep the paper, which she graciously allowed. I took it home and have had it for use within my classes.
I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have you, and the State over which you preside, in his holy protection, that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another,
for their fellow Citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field, and finally, that he would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all, to do Justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility and pacific temper of mind, which were the Characteristicks of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation.
Enjoy the entire text here. Have a wonderful 4th of July!