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Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine
Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.
We can only reason from what is; we can reason on actualities, but not on possibilities.
Virtues are acquired through endeavor, Which rests wholly upon yourself. So, to praise others for their virtues can but encourage one's own efforts.
But such is the irresistible nature of truth, that all it asks, and all it wants is the liberty of appearing.
Lead, follow, or get out of the way.
Character is much easier kept than recovered.