On Becoming Self-Reliant

We live in the paradoxical situation of having more people concerned about other people’s problems than ever before, and the more concern, seemingly the more also are the problems. The multiplicity of plans and of programs, of agencies and institutions, of instrumentalities and organizations would seem to have become such that it would be difficult for any man to want for anything that wasn’t readily available, from the cradle to the grave. Notwithstanding this, however, we hear more talk than ever before of unsolved problems, and of what must be done if our social and economic structure is to survive. Altogether there is much ado about a tremendous number of things, and many able and earnest men and women are putting forth their most sincere efforts, and still complexity multiplies itself. This whole energetic and conscientious, and sometimes confused effort would lead one reasonably to ask: At what point in a man’s life can he take care of himself and his own problems? When may we expect to become self-reliant? When can we begin to take down the scaffolding? When can we take off the splints? Of course, the answer to these questions depend entirely on the individual. But, judging from the agencies and instrumentalities that have been set up to cope with virtually every problem at every age, the philosophy would seem to prevail that we have little hope ever of becoming self-reliant—as long as we can have a crutch to lean on. It is good to have a crutch when we need one, but it is also glorious to see the day when we can walk without one. “Men should…do many things of their own free will.” The Lord God has given us intelligence and principles, and expects us to use them in working out our own salvation, not waiting to be commanded in all things. A child who has every decision made for him remains mentally and emotionally a child. And a man whose thinking and whose life are forever ordered by others, and whose problems are increasingly solved by others, has little opportunity ever of becoming self-reliant. But often when we are left to our own devices, common sense and neglected powers come gloriously to our aid. Of course, some of us will always need help. But constant coddling, relentless regimentation and suppressive supervision are not the end of our problems—but only the beginning of many more.