Laus Deo

"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism who should labor to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness--these firmest props of the duties of Men and citizens. The mere Politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked, where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that National morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle."

This is a quote from George Washington's farewell address, given as he was leaving office as the first President of the United States. The entire address carries a tone of  instruction and caution for the citizens of the newly formed Republic, and it certainly is a well-spring of good advise for prescient Americans. After the address was given, April 30, 1789, it was published and presented for public study. It was taught in the schools and analyzed on the street corners.
 
I believe Washington's Farewell Address is worth reading, pondering, and teaching to our children. I believe, along with the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, it should be read and discussed in every home and taught in every secondary school.

In this day and age when the Constitution of the United States and the founding principles of  the country are being undermined, I feel it imperative that we, as a people, get back to the two great Pillars of political prosperity--Religion and Morality.

On the top of the Washington Monument in Washington, DC are written the words, in Latin, "Laus Deo" which means "Praise be to God." They are words to bring back into our lives and public dialogue.