An Affiliate’s Creed*

Dean Alfange

Dr. Dean Alfange

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 look after me.

I want to take the calculated risk; to dream and to build, to fail and to 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 [tall], proud and unafraid; to think and act for myself, enjoy the benefit of my creations and to face the world boldly and say, “This I have done.”


“An American Creed” by Dean Alfange – Originally published in This Week Magazine, later reprinted in The Reader’s Digest, October 1952

*This was not written by an affiliate or about affiliates, but I think it applies.

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