Wisdom From Napoleon

Nope--wrong Napoleon.

Here are some quotes I stumbled upon from Napoleon Bonaparte regarding politics, for lack of a better umbrella term. Yes, Napoleon is regarded as a godless tyrant, a narcissistic ruler hardened to the millions who died in the wars that he waged in Europe for power, as well as a misogynist who saw women as "simply machines for childbirth". I still think we ought to recognize truth, whatever the source:

A man will fight harder for his interests than for his rights.

Among those who dislike oppression are many who like to oppress.

Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.

In politics stupidity is not a handicap.

This year, as the 4th of July and our celebration of America's Independence from tyranny draws near, perhaps we should think of more than getting a good firework display in our schedule. Perhaps we should think more of what rights our founding fathers selflessly fought for, knowing full well that the fruit of their labor would only be fully enjoyed by generations that would come decades AFTER them? Perhaps, if our constitution is not read and understood and respected by the multitudes in our nation, we should think of what oppression could be in store for those who simply want the right of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness...nothing more, nothing less? Perhaps we should think about speaking up a little here and there when our sensibilities are offended by what laws are passed or not passed in Congress? Perhaps we should read the Constitution? Maybe even a biography or two from these great men who established our country...Thomas Paine, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson maybe?

I don't know....just a thought. I hear there is a reprinted edition of Paine's "Common Sense"--that's where I'm going to start.