A WORTHWHILE CREED

MY CREED by Dean Alfange

 I do not choose to be a common man. It is my right to be uncommon.
 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 the guaranteed existence; the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of utopia.
I will not trade freedom for beneficence nor my dignity for a handout.
 I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat.
It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid; to think and 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.

Originally published in This Week Magazine. Later reprinted in The Reader’s Digest, October 1952, p. 10, and January 1954, p. 122

A Short Course on Leadership

The Adair short course on leadership

The six most important words: ‘I admit I made a mistake.’

The five most important words: ‘I am proud of you.’

The four most important words: ‘What is your opinion?’

The three most important words: ‘If you please.’

The two most important words: ‘Thank you.’

The one most important word: ‘We.’

And the one least important word: ‘I.’