I Do Not Choose to Be a Common Man (Poem) by Dean Alfange

It is my right to be uncommon—if I can.

I seek opportunity—not security.
I do not wish to be a kept citizen,
humbled and dulled by having the state look after me.

I want to take the calculated risk;
to dream and to build,
to fail and to succeed.

I refuse to barter incentive for a dole.
I prefer the challenges of life to the guaranteed existence;
the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of utopia.

I will not trade freedom for beneficence
nor my dignity for a handout.
I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat.

It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid;
to think and act for myself,
enjoy the benefit of my creations
and to face the world boldly and say, “This I have done.”