Their take on LIFE has really interested me, especially how their definition of “life, liberty and the persuit of happiness” is so different than what we view it today (by trying to buy our way to happiness, therefore becoming trapped by materialism instead of being liberated to enjoy life)

I fear, however, that you’re spinning these quotes in a simplistic manner to suit your own purposes and ideas, ignoring – or failing to appreciate – their original context and meaning.

The James Madison quote has nothing whatsoever to do with debt; Madison was arguing that the U.S. impose a tariff on imports, despite the fact that he in general was philosophically opposed to such actions (“commercial shackles”).

The Paine quote is misinterpreted as well, which is baffling, since it suits your ethos. Paine was suggesting that we more fully appreciate those things which are attained as the result of hard work and struggle. The full quote: “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; ’tis dearness only that gives everything its value.” This is a far cry from “things that seem like they’re constantly there.”

I did have to chuckle at the irony of Thomas Jefferson’s quote and Trent’s explanation of it. Thomas Jefferson was one of the brightest of the founding fathers, but also one of the most conflicted (i.e. espousing principles of freedom for all while holding slaves). His quote in this post is another example–poor Mr. Jefferson is renowned for being “in debt to his eyeballs.”

It does not negate the wisdom of his saying–perhaps it has more force coming from personal experience.

I don’t think Thomas Paine’s quote had anything to do with family and/or friends.

It was all about the material things in life.

The harder you save/work to own something the more you will cherish it, take care of it, etc.

Let’s face it, GENERALLY, if one gets something for nothing, we tend to take said item(s) for granted because it/they was/were free. IF we had paid for it/them ourself, we’d take better care.

That’s what Thomas Paine was saying.

I would say that this is referring to much more than personal debt. We’ve allowed our country to be run by commercial interests & reduced our freedoms as a result. I don’t disagree with your statement about debt, but i think this quote goes far beyond that.

Our politicians are largely bought & sold by big corporate interest & the concerns of the elected leaders are, at best, divided between trying to please constituents & corporate interests.

I love this country, but we are losing many of our freedoms rapidly.

I know that you commented on this quote in terms of intangible things, and of course you are right. But I thought of the above.