It is my right to be uncommon--if I can.

I seek opportunity--not security. I do not wish to be kept a citizen, humbled and dulled by having the state look after me.

I want to take the calculated risk; to dream and to build, to fail and to succeed.

I refuse to barter incentive for a dole. I prefer the challenges of life to the guaranteed existance; the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of utopia.

I will not trade freedom for beneficence nor my dignity for a handout. I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat.

It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid; to think and act for myself, enjoy the benefit of my creations and to face the world boldly and say, "This I have done."

By Dean Alfange

*Originally published in This Week Magazine. Later reprinted in The Reader's Digest, October 1952        and January 1954.        
*Printed in Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University Workbook in 2008