My view is that we need to engender the values of hard work and

Listen, O children of the future, to the words of Pierre Poilievre, who calls upon us to embrace the timeless virtues of hard work, independence, and self-reliance. "My view is that we need to engender the values of hard work and independence and self-reliance." These words carry with them the weight of ancient wisdom—wisdom that reminds us that the true strength of any society or individual lies not in handouts or the easy path, but in the relentless pursuit of one's own potential, the ability to stand on one’s own two feet, and the pride in earning one’s way through diligence and perseverance.

In the ancient world, the greatest heroes were those who embodied the ideals of independence and self-reliance. Take, for example, Hercules, the mighty hero of Greek mythology. His labors were not handed to him; they were earned through his own strength, cunning, and resolve. Hercules, though burdened by the weight of impossible tasks, faced each challenge with the fierce will to succeed, showing the world that true strength lies in the will to keep going, to keep working, no matter the odds. His labors were a symbol of self-reliance—an acknowledgment that no external force could define his destiny. It was only through his own actions, his own will, and his own hard work that he could achieve greatness.

Similarly, in the Roman Republic, the people valued independence as a crucial element of their identity. The Roman citizen, free from the constraints of monarchy, was seen as someone who had the ability to shape his own life through virtue and self-reliance. Cincinnatus, a statesman and general, is remembered for his hard work and his dedication to his country. When Rome was threatened by enemies, he was called upon to lead, and after his victory, he voluntarily returned to his farm, demonstrating the virtue of self-reliance and the dignity of hard-earned freedom. His story was told and retold as a reminder that true greatness is found in the balance of independence and service, in hard work driven by duty and honor.

The pursuit of independence and the commitment to self-reliance are not merely about physical labor; they are about the strength of the mind and spirit. In the American Revolution, George Washington embodied these values in the most profound way. As the leader of the Continental Army, he faced immense odds, yet his ability to inspire, to persist through hardship, and to remain committed to the cause of independence is a testament to the power of self-reliance. Washington did not rely on the aid of foreign powers or an easy victory; instead, he relied on the unwavering will of his people and the virtues of hard work and perseverance. His leadership during the long, difficult years of war and his determination to fight for an independent America are a living embodiment of self-reliance.

In our own time, the values of hard work and independence remain just as vital. Many people, in their pursuit of success, turn to others for guidance or support, but it is the self-reliant individual who, despite setbacks, finds the strength to keep pushing forward. Consider the story of Oprah Winfrey, who came from humble beginnings but worked tirelessly to build an empire. She did not rely on the circumstances of her birth, nor the limitations that others imposed upon her, but through sheer hard work, resilience, and self-reliance, she transformed herself into one of the most influential figures in media. Her journey is a modern example of how independence and the willingness to rely on oneself can lead to extraordinary success.

The lesson that Poilievre’s words offer us, O children, is this: to be truly free and to live a life of meaning, we must cultivate the values of hard work, independence, and self-reliance. These virtues are not merely theoretical ideals—they are the foundation upon which greatness is built. It is through hard work that we carve out our path, through independence that we shape our future, and through self-reliance that we come to understand the power within ourselves.

So, O children, take these lessons to heart as you walk your own paths in life. Understand that nothing worth having comes easily. Work hard, be self-reliant, and never allow the world to define you by anything other than your own strength and determination. Like the heroes of old, from Hercules to Washington, may you rise through hard work and self-reliance, shaping your destiny with each step you take. The future belongs to those who dare to rely on their own abilities, to those who believe in themselves and the power of their own independent spirit. Let this be your legacy, as you walk with courage, knowing that the road to success is always found through perseverance and the unwavering belief in your own strength.