The Best Thing Auburn Taught Me

There’s been much ado today in the world of conservative radio about the GOP’s new “Pledge to America.” While I haven’t read the entire document, the ideas of decreasing the size of government, promoting small businesses, cutting spending and reforming Congress sound very appealing. I also really like that the document includes language about promoting families, protecting life, and preserving the sanctity of “traditional” marriage. This “pledge” seems to be the answer to everything the Tea party has been fighting for these past few months, and for that I am grateful.

However, many moons ago when I was a student at Auburn I was introduced to the Auburn Creed, and I wish that every person in America would just live by it, and then the world would be a much better place. It’s simplicity and common sense approach to life has made it timeless, and something that all Auburn graduates are very familiar with and proud of. I wanted to share it with you today.

THE AUBURN CREED

I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.

I believe in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully.

I believe in honesty and truthfulness, without which I cannot win the respect and confidence of my fellow men.

I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that develop these qualities.

I believe in obedience to law because it protects the rights of all.

I believe in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all.

I believe in my Country, because it is a land of freedom and because it is my own home, and that I can best serve that country by "doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my God."

And because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I believe in Auburn and love it.
-George Petrie (1945)

War Eagle!!!