We know that transformational change is possible. We know this because of three reasons: First, because, for all our differences, there are certain values that bind us together and reveal our common humanity: the universal longing to live a life free from fear, and free from want; a life marked by dignity and respect and simple justice.So freedom from "fear" and "want" are Western values that bind us together? Since when? That's kind of bizarre. Freedom from "want" and "simple justice" sound more like something Karl Marx would say than George Washington.
Our two republics were founded in service of these ideals. In America, it is written into our founding documents as "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." In France: "Liberté" -- (applause) -- absolutely -- "egalité, fraternité." (Applause.) Our moral authority is derived from the fact that generations of our citizens have fought and bled to uphold these values in our nations and others.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Obama's understanding of our "founding document"!
This was an interesting line from Barack Obama's speech in Strasbourg, France on Friday April 3, 2009:
