Washington writes like a man who had already attained greatness of character before the rigor of war. After war, he has been refined and tempered.
We need to bring him alive to our high school students of today.
I brought my kids up to understand this: America was founded—to a large extent—on the character of George Washington. I have not asked much of my kids, but did ask them to be sure and teach that to their children.
He thanked God for the bountiful land. He was also thankful for the happy confluence of religiosity, public spirit, and knowledge of history and political philosophers. We did not create governments at the point of a sword, but in quiet deliberation among free people. It would be up to us to remain happy and free.
Our choices were between, "respectable and prosperous, or contemptible and miserable." If the Confederation dissolved, our revolution would be regarded by future generations as a curse.
Liberty was the goal, and opponents should feel the public's wrath.
If Congress did not assert its powers under the Confederation, anarchy and confusion would result.
The man who probably could have been set upon a throne if he wanted it, merely asked the government to do its duty as he had done.
Hmm, on second thought, I doubt a man of such virtue could be honestly studied in today's government schools. Islam yes, Washington no.