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What is Progress?
Lewis
Goldberg
04/21/2003
So
often we hear the left paint itself as politically 'progressive.' The word
progress - almost always being perceived as a positive attribute - by its
very presence lends a sense of righteousness to a cause. But what really is
progress, and how does the progressive movement stack up against the
definition?
PROG'RESS,
n. [L. progressus, progedior; pro and gradior, to step or go. See
Grade and Degree.] 1. A moving or going forward; a proceeding onward. A
man makes a slow progress or a rapid progress on a journey;
a ship makes slow progress against the tide. He watched the progress
of the army on its march, or the progress of a star or comet.
[Webster's 1828]
According
to the primary definition, progress is but to advance down a path taken,
regardless of the inherent nature of the activity. Our immediate
association with improvement takes dead-last place in the Webster
1828's lengthy definition...almost an afterthought. And so, at least the
forces of liberalism are honest in owning up to the fact that things change
when they are in power, with their primary neglect being an honest
assessment of where it is all heading.
The
purpose of the political journey we are undertaking - one that began almost
before the ink was dry on the Constitution - is to construct an engine of
power, and an awesome engine it has become - an engine of sinful men. The
payback to the electorate for maintaining this progress is to throw a few
benefits to them now and then, distracting them from the horror that is
being assembled in their name. Many thoughtful people witness this progress
and discern conspiracy, but I think the truth is far simpler.
Certainly
even the craftiest politician is unable to purchase power and influence to
last a day longer than the Lord will allow, but it is interesting to note
that men do pick up fallen banners, dropped by their heroes from bygone
days. Lincoln openly pursued Henry Clay's vision, any number of presidents
claimed Lincoln's mantle, and just about every president at least pays lip
service to George Washington. But since sin and death entered the world,
there has been no righteous man in whose footsteps we should follow - save
one - and it is His very name which no prudent man dare utter in public
service to America today, Jesus Christ.
The
conservative version of progress, a sentimental pursuit of the 'good old
days' whereby we rebuild old Babels, is an effort wrought in futility, for
we simply end up chasing a deprecated version of Hell to which we never
arrive. Let us instead look to the future, one that is promised - by Him
who is able to promise - to be the good new days. The best part is,
it will come to fruition regardless of our flawed efforts at
perfection...our so-called progress...the enthronement of abomination. Let
us all seek to fulfill the purpose ordained us by Him who sent us. Even in
our failure, the larger end will be glorified...real progress indeed.
Your comments and questions are encouraged. [editor@patriotist.com]
Patriotist
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