The Uncommon Man

I do not choose to be a common man.
It is my right to be uncommon—if I can.

I seek opportunity, not security.
I do not wish to be a kept 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 a guaranteed existence,
the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of Utopia.
I will not trade freedom for beneficence,
nor dignity for a handout.

It is my heritage to think and to act for myself,
enjoy the benefit of my creations, and to face the world boldly
and say, "With God's help, this I have done."

—author unknown