"That every man might have need of other, and from hence they might be all knit more nearly together in the bonds of brotherly affection." I think this quote from Winthrop's address sums up his point perfectly. When reading the pre-information it would seem that they paint Winthrop as an idealist or a dreamer. Perhaps many people in government have high expectations for a "perfect" body of people to govern and soon their ideals are dashed with the fallibility of the human race.
But perhaps, Winthrop's message is meant to spur people on to do good for his fellow neighbor, with the foreknowledge that not everyone would attain to these lofty expectations, but even if some would embrace these ideals, what a difference it would be.
Regardless, I found most of these writings to be inspiring and beautiful. What if we could grasp the teachings here? What a different society we would experience, and what security we would feel, knowing that our fellow neighbor was looking out for our welfare. Knowing that not just by words, our affections are made known, but more importantly that our actions are a living proof of them.
I like the quote, "So the way to draw men to works of mercy, is not by force of argument from the goodness or necessity of the work; for as is frequent in experience, yet it cannot work such a habit in a soul, as shall make it prompt upon all occasions to produce the same effect, but by framing these affections of love in the heart which will as natively bring forth the other, as any cause doth produce effect." The reason I like it, is because of the truth that is behind it. If I argue with someone and get them all stirred up inside they are more focused on their anger and proving their point than on what is being said.
We frame the pictures that are important to us. We should frame the virtures as well. Frame love. Make it the living and active portrait of our lives. The memory of our existence.
