“…the only thing we have to fear is fear itself -- nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.”
President Franklin Roosevelt, in his first inaugural address, called for what might have viewed at the time a bit irrational. Our great nation was deeply mired in the bowels of the deep depression.
I believe that the measure of his thought that day is worth more in wisdom and outcome than any government program, then and now .
With all the dour financial news shoved in our faces: no wonder so many are depressing into recession. We are giving in to the temptation to pull back. To retreat to safety.
But safety in life is an allusion.
We can choose to stand on the side lines and let others take the blame. God knows there is enough of that to go around. But that wastes the commodity greater than any coin or commission: time. Wasting time and wasting money is wasting life.
The very best thing we ca
n do is to live life on purpose. If you want to watch your assets to grow- plant a tree. That is an investment in the future. One which will give dividends no stock market decline can take away.
But safety in life is an allusion.
We can choose to stand on the side lines and let others take the blame. God knows there is enough of that to go around. But that wastes the commodity greater than any coin or commission: time. Wasting time and wasting money is wasting life.
The very best thing we ca
n do is to live life on purpose. If you want to watch your assets to grow- plant a tree. That is an investment in the future. One which will give dividends no stock market decline can take away. Have fun deciding what tree to plant. Trees are all around us: make a date and take your camera. Open your eyes not just to size, shape and canopy. Look at the beauty of bark itself.
Franklin Roosevelt was so smart and what he said was and IS so true!
ReplyDeleteI like your idea of planting a tree...Or, any plant, for that matter, ikt is hopeful and a joy to behold as it grows!
It was interesting looking up FDR's campaign. It was not full of specifics or programs. It as full of optimism. On inauguration day, he gave life to words full of wisdom that transend political party. He believed in the American People.
ReplyDeleteThank you for commenting. Your site is one that gives me optimism. Always lovely.
I'd like to plant a tree for my mother this month, but I can't seem to hit on the right one. so I'll just wait for inspiration I suppose.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to be able to read your post - the last time I came I couldn't distinguish the text from the background, I think my eyes are going..
Greetings, Shara! I hope you find a tree to sit in the shade of and remember your mother.
ReplyDeleteA neighbor gave us a simple ficus tree when my father-in-law died. It is potted on the patio and I think of him fondly whenever I pass by it.