I am a man. I am an American

[stan]

I AM A MAN.I AM AN AMERICAN

I do not choose to be a common man
It is my right to be uncommon... 
If I can. I seek opportunity... Not security.

I do not wish to be a kept citizen, 
Humbled and dulled by having the state to dream and build, to
Fail and 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 hand out. 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 benefits of my 
creations; and to face the world boldly 
and say, "This I have done with my own hand,
I am a man. I am an American.

By Dean Alfange