Wisdom from the Sage of Mount Vernon
Words of wisdom appropriate to our time.
…from George Washington, America’s first President, on the occasion of his 285 birthday.
ON EDUCATION
“A primary object should be the education of our youth in the science of government. In a republic, what species of knowledge can be equally important? And what duty more pressing than communicating it to those who are to be the future guardians of the liberties of the country?”– Eighth Annual Message, December 7, 1796
“There is nothing which can better deserve our patronage than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”
– First Annual Message to Congress on the State of the Union, January 8, 1790
– First Annual Message to Congress on the State of the Union, January 8, 1790
ON PATRIOTISM AND CAUTION
“Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.”
– Farewell Address, Sep. 17, 1796
– Farewell Address, Sep. 17, 1796
ON THE CURRENT CABINET
“Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your own reputation; for ‘tis better to be alone than in bad company.”
– Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation
– Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation
ON BLAMING OTHERS
While we are contending for our own liberty, we should be very cautious not to violate the rights of conscience in others, ever considering that God alone is the judge of the hearts of men, and to him only in this case they are answerable.
– letter to Benedict Arnold, Sep. 14, 1775
– letter to Benedict Arnold, Sep. 14, 1775
ON THE EXPECTATIONS OF LEADERSWisdom from the Sage of Mount Vernon – Live Long and Prosper:
