Welcome to the inspirational living podcast.

Today's reading was edited and adapted from Right Living by Susan H. Wixen, published in 1894.

Is it true that we are too apt to be copies of one another. Yes, it is true.

We are often imitators and not originators.

It would appear almost at first sight as if it were dangerous to walk a different path from the accepted highway.

Yet there are many shortcuts across lots that bring one to town sooner than following

the beaten track. Instead we go as others go. We do as others do, without thinking whether it be

right or not. When deviating somewhat from the well-worn way, we are apt to be frightened,

and to fear we are lost, yet we do not live to be exact copies of each other.

Originality of action, of speech, of thought is the necessity of the world. Great men and great women of this or any

period of the world's history are always those of striking characteristics, of strong

individuality. The statesman Henry Clay took on the moral grandeur of a Hercules, glowing and brilliant as one of the most beautiful stars in the firmament, when he uttered those immortal words.

I would rather be right than be president.

The great abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison,

filled and thrilled with the justice of a cause that he knew to be right,

sent forth flaming words that will live forever,

and will forever shine with undiminished lustre

when he proclaimed,

I will be as harsh as truth, and as uncompromising as justice.

I am in earnest. I will not equivocate. I will not excuse. I will not retreat an inch,

and I will be heard. Both of these men were examples of strong individuality.

They each left their mark upon the nation. To think for oneself, to always endeavor to act

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