The relationship I have to my fatherland is like that of mothers
The relationship I have to my fatherland is like that of mothers with crippled children: they love them all the more, the more crippled they are. Germany is the background of all my plans, the return to Germany.
Hear the heartfelt words of Friedrich List, who speaks of devotion both tender and sorrowful: “The relationship I have to my fatherland is like that of mothers with crippled children: they love them all the more, the more crippled they are. Germany is the background of all my plans, the return to Germany.” These words arise from a soul deeply bound to its homeland, a soul that sees not only its beauty but its brokenness, and whose love grows stronger in response to its suffering.
The image of a mother and her crippled child is one of profound sacrifice and unconditional care. A mother does not turn away from weakness or imperfection; instead, she gathers her child closer, nurturing them with even greater tenderness. In comparing his fatherland to such a child, List reveals the depth of his patriotism. His love for Germany does not depend on its strength or glory, but rather on his willingness to heal its wounds and restore its dignity.
At the time of List’s words, Germany was not yet the united and powerful nation it would later become. It was a land fractured into states and principalities, struggling to find unity and direction. To many, such division might have inspired despair, but to List it stirred determination. By placing Germany at the heart of his plans, he vowed not only to return to his homeland but to dedicate his life to its renewal, much as a devoted mother seeks to strengthen her ailing child.
This quote also speaks to a higher truth: the worthiest love is not for that which is already whole and perfect, but for that which is fragile and in need. To serve one’s country in times of triumph is easy, but to love it fiercely amidst its failures is the mark of true loyalty. Such love is not blind; it sees flaws clearly, yet works tirelessly to transform them.
Let future generations remember this wisdom: a nation is like a living being, shaped by the care or neglect of its people. When it falters, do not abandon it, but hold it close and labor for its healing. For, as List teaches, the truest relationship to one’s fatherland is not built on pride alone, but on sacrificial love, patient and unyielding, even in the face of brokenness.
QTdao quynh trang
Friedrich List’s comparison of his attachment to Germany with a mother’s love for a crippled child is intense and emotional, suggesting that love for one’s country is strongest when it is in a weakened state. But what does this say about the nature of patriotism? Is it necessary for a nation to be in crisis for citizens to feel this level of attachment? Or can a healthy love for one’s country thrive in times of strength as well?
MPTrinh Mai Phuong
I find Friedrich List’s analogy compelling, but I wonder if this view of patriotism can be limiting. If one loves their country unconditionally, even when it is 'crippled,' does that mean they overlook its flaws? Can true patriotism exist without the willingness to critique or challenge one’s country? Is it possible to love a nation so deeply and still want to improve or change it for the better?
TNTran Thi Nguyet
List’s statement about his relationship with his fatherland being like a mother’s love for her crippled child really makes me reflect on the concept of national loyalty. Is it healthy for citizens to feel such intense attachment to their country, especially when it is facing struggles or setbacks? How does this kind of loyalty affect one's willingness to speak out against governmental failures or injustices?
VEBui Hoang VIet Em
This quote gives an interesting perspective on patriotism, with List comparing his connection to Germany as a mother’s love for a suffering child. But does this deep love for one’s country hinder progress or reform? Can such a strong emotional attachment prevent objective criticism or the desire for change? Should love for a country be conditional upon its success, or can it be unconditional regardless of its current state?
THPham Thi Thu Hue
Friedrich List’s analogy between his relationship to his fatherland and that of a mother to a crippled child is striking. It speaks to an intense, unconditional love that grows stronger despite, or perhaps because of, the perceived flaws or struggles of the nation. But what does this suggest about national identity? Is it possible to have a deep, unyielding love for one’s country even when it is in a state of crisis or hardship?