I
SAVONAROLA
1452-1498
Should the whole army of my enemies be arrayed against me, my heart will not quake: for Thou art my refuge and wilt lead me to my latter end.
Most of us are very easily persuaded to do what
every one else does, because it is so much less trouble.
It is disagreeable to be sneered at or abused. Now
and again we may do something because we know it
to be right at the risk of causing displeasure, but it
is very hard to keep on through a lifetime fighting
against popular opinion or opposing those who are
considered our superiors and whom all the world
look up to as set in authority over us. The orders
of those in command, those who govern, those who
set the fashion, and those who have riches with all
the laws and traditions behind them, are what is
called authority. If you defy authority from stupidity,
obstinacy, or perversity, it is merely foolish; but
if you defy authority because you are convinced that
what you think is right, it is a very difficult thing
to do; and in doing it you are likely to make far more
