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, humble and dulled by having the state look after me.

I want to take a calculated risk; to dream and to 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 handout. 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; to enjoy the benefit of my creations and to face the world boldly and say, this I have done.

by Thomas Paine 1776 in his, "Common Sense"