And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that His justice cannot sleep for ever.
- Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia, 1781

In the beginning of the contest with Britain, when we were sensible of danger, we had daily prayers in this room for the divine protection. Our prayers, sir, were heard and they were graciously answered.…Have we now forgotten this powerful Friend? Do we imagine that we no longer need His assistance? I have lived a long time, and the longer I live the more convincing proof I see of this truth, that God governs in the affairs of men.…We have been assured, sir, that 'except the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain that build it,' and without His concurring aid, we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel.
- Benjamin Franklin, at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, 1787

A general dissolution of principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of the common enemy. While the people are virtuous they cannot be subdued; but when once they lose their virtue then will be ready to surrender their liberties to the first external or internal invader. - Samuel Adams, letter to James Warren, February 12, 1779

Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please. - Mark Twain

It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure that just ain't so. - Mark Twain

All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure. - Mark Twain

Always do right, this will gratify some and astonish the rest. - Mark Twain

A banker is a fellow who lends you his umbrella when the sun is shining and wants it back the minute it begins to rain. - Mark Twain

Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first. - Mark Twain

Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering. - Yoda

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Thursday, May 5, 2011

Jefferson's Poplar Forest

If you are a fan of history, architecture or Thomas Jefferson, I encourage you to plan a visit to Poplar Forest.  This was Thomas Jefferson's retreat home and it is a beautiful home.

Here is an excerpt from a term paper I wrote on Jefferson's architecture while at King College:  
At Poplar Forest, a sense of total relaxation lingers in the air.  There is no worry of interruptions or constant care-taking of the grounds.

I've added some photos from my recent visit there.






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