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I pray we are still a young and courageous nation, that we…

“I pray we are still a young and courageous nation, that we have not grown so old and so fat and so prosperous that all we can think about is to sit back with our arms around our money bags. If we choose to do that I have no doubt that the smoldering fires will burst into flame and consume us…” quote by Lyndon B. Johnson
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“I pray we are still a young and courageous nation, that we have not grown so old and so fat and so prosperous that all we can think about is to sit back with our arms around our money bags. If we choose to do that I have no doubt that the smoldering fires will burst into flame and consume us - dollars and all.”

Lyndon B. Johnson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Warns against complacency and materialism that can erode a nation's vigor.

In simple terms: We must stay active, not just rich and idle.

Key Takeaway

Guard against complacency and nurture youthful courage.

Themes

civics materialism vigilance

Mood

cautionary urgent

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • civic education
  • community activism

Key Concepts

national identity economic critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does true prosperity look like?
  • How can societies balance wealth with purpose?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on wealth can ignore structural issues.

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