May 25, 2009

Memorial Day


This Memorial Day Goat Rope salutes American poet Walt Whitman, who gave generously of himself to aid sick, wounded, and dying soldiers during the American Civil War.

“This is what you shall do: love the earth and sun, and animals, despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, stand up for the stupid and crazy, devote your income and labor to others, hate tyrants, argue not concerning God, have patience and indulgence towards the people, take off your hat to nothing known or unknown, or to any man or number of men; go freely with the powerful uneducated persons, and with the young, and mothers, of families: read these leaves in the open air every season of every year of your life: re-examine all you have been told at school or church, or in any books, and dismiss whatever insults your soul.”

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Magnificent life philosophy.