citizens by birth or
choice, of a common country
name belongs to you
Citizens by birth or choice of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections.
The name of American, which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any appellation derived from local discriminations.
With slight shades of difference, you have the same religion, manners, habits, and political principles.
You have in a common cause fought and triumphed together.
The independence and liberty you possess are the work of joint councils and joint efforts – of common dangers, sufferings, and successes.
From the Farewell Address of George Washington.
The preface of a memorial edition printed by the Senate of the United States in the year 2000, states:
In September 1796, worn out by burdens of the presidency and attacks of political foes, George Washington announced his decision not to seek a third term.
With the assistance of Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, Washington composed in a “Farewell Address” his political testament to the nation.
Designed to inspire and guide future generations, the address also set forth Washington’s defense of his administration’s record and embodied a classic statement of Federalist doctrine.
Designed to inspire and guide.
I am not sure who came up with the wording for With slight shades of difference as Alexander Hamilton and James Madison helped out, but I have to marvel.
With slight shades of difference.
Citizen’s by birth OR choice.
The name that BELONGS to you.
The name of American.
The name that BELONGS to you.
Citizen’s by birth OR choice.
With slight shades of difference.
Words you could spray paint on a wall somewhere …
Appropriate reading for the General’s Birthday, 2023.
No Haiku For You 