They tell me thou art rich, my country: gold In glittering flood has poured into thy chest; Thy flocks and herds increase, thy barns are pressed With harvest, and thy stores can hardly hold Their merchandise; unending trains are rolled Along thy network rails of East and West; Thy factories and forges never rest; Thou art enriched in all things bought and sold! But dost thou prosper? Better news I crave. O dearest country, is it well with thee Indeed, and is thy soul in health? A nobler people, hearts more wisely brave, And thoughts that lift men up and make them free,- These are prosperity and vital wealth!
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Material wealth does not equal true prosperity of the soul.
- In plain terms
- A country needs brave hearts and free thoughts, not just gold.
- What can you take from it?
- Value human character over economic output.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is true wealth?
- How do we measure success?
Another view
Economic strength often correlates with stability.
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