To a large extent the...
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To a large extent the personality of America can be summed up in the word, "Pride." Patriotism is certainly born of a sense of pride in our country. Slogans like, "Made in the U.S.A." are used to inspire a pride in country, and therefore, a dollar in the manufacturer's pocket. From Chevrolet to Chrysler, can dealers sell cars focusing on pride in product and country. We are led to believe that purchasing a car or other item from another country reduces the pride of our own workers.
The fact is that women and men need a sense of self respect and self esteem. It's good to feel good about oneself. But the writer in Ecclesiastes reminds us of how dangerous too much pride can be. Humankind can, and does on occasion, decide like Adam that its own abilities are the reason for the successes but quickly blame God for any losses. Of course, it is at this point that pride becomes arrogance.
William Penn, in 1679 wrote, "That country which is false to its first principles of government, and mistakes or divides its common and popular interest, must unavoidably decay." Arrogance and pride are powerful motivators that must be brought under the watchful eye of God. America and all the world would be wise to listen to the warning in Ecclesiastes.
- Clarke
The fact is that women and men need a sense of self respect and self esteem. It's good to feel good about oneself. But the writer in Ecclesiastes reminds us of how dangerous too much pride can be. Humankind can, and does on occasion, decide like Adam that its own abilities are the reason for the successes but quickly blame God for any losses. Of course, it is at this point that pride becomes arrogance.
William Penn, in 1679 wrote, "That country which is false to its first principles of government, and mistakes or divides its common and popular interest, must unavoidably decay." Arrogance and pride are powerful motivators that must be brought under the watchful eye of God. America and all the world would be wise to listen to the warning in Ecclesiastes.
- Clarke
