Well, we are getting into his 'situation,' here, Lawrence. In the three of tis title: but this one: feels a bit out of time/tune, a kind of anachronism in that economic language? I like the point, & how it works here, but...?
Doug
On 2012-02-21, at 11:33 AM, Lawrence Upton wrote:
> Before all this, one I had thought a friend
> came to me and said: “For God’s sake, do talk
> to him. He wants you on his side.
> I asked
> “For God’s sake”?
> “For your own sake, fool!
> He’ll exile you or else he’ll kill you here.
> You’ll die elsewhere.
> You are his counsellor
> but unofficially. You are not safe.”
> I replied: “All I have done is speak out
> on matters of principle. Where is the harm?”
> And he, who cannot write the word easily
> nor without much hesitation and breath
> said: “Principles are of importance. Yes!
> How could I not agree? But say, my friend,
> what assistance have they been to you, careerwise?
>
> None, I see?
> I thought so.
> They never are
> unless chosen carefully under guidance,
> as with anything.
> Principles, if unproductive,
> should be abandoned, exchanged, for ones that work.
> Audit your ethical profitability
> every few months and set yourself targets
> which are achievable; and good guidelines
> which do not inhibit social progress.”
> I thanked him. He went away.
> I worried.
>
Douglas Barbour
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