French philosopher and writer Alexis de Tocqueville came to
America in the 1830s to study for himself the ways of this land that was
amazing to the rest of the world, and to delve into the mysteries of the
success and spirit of this new breed of human beings known as Americans. His
goal was to share that knowledge with the European community: His classic
study of the American people, Democracy in America, published in 1840, has
been cited in textbooks and quoted in oratory and still to this day is held
up as a landmark of insight and truth. De Toqueville said: “In the end, the
state of the Union comes down to the character of the people.” Here is
what he concluded: I sought for the greatness and genius of America in
her commodious harbors, her ample rivers, and it was not there. I sought for
it in the fertile fields, and boundless prairies, and it was not there. I
sought for it in her rich mines, and vast world commerce, and it was not
there. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her
pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius
and power. America is great, because she is good. And if America ever ceases
to be good America will cease to be great.
I end this with a quote by Fransis of Assissi. (Preach always;
if necessary, use words.)
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