this is to all the tyrants and dictators, as well as those presidents and kings who still think that such a position is a position of luxury or for the getting of wealth, fame, or glory. here's a reminder-1000s of years overdue, might i add- of what it means to be a ruler.
a true ruler values his (or her) people, and encourages equality among them, for he himself sees them as equal.
a true ruler is honest (even to himself) and merciful. he is gentle, yet firm and swift in justice. and he provides comfort and protection for those who seek it.
a true ruler is wise and never rash. he does not allow hatred to consume him and will never be driven by greed.
a true ruler does not wish to subjugate or enslave his people. he wishes only to do what is best for them, his fellow people.
a true ruler guides his people when they seek it. he protects his people from the enemy as best he can. nor will he exploit others or place them in harm's way for his own personal gain.
a true ruler does not use taxes to increase his own wealth, nor does he hoard his wealth, but he gives of it freely to benefit his people, and he does not tolerate the wealthy among his nation to prey upon the old, the ill, the orphaned, or the poor.
a true ruler implements justice...TRUE justice...and will not be swayed to favor someone because of wealth or any other factor aside from the matter at hand, and he will not be moved by bribes.
a true ruler expects loyalty, but does not expect to be worshipped. he will not expect to be bowed or prostrated to.
a true ruler does not wish to rule the world and will respect his place in the world, and knows that he is only a part of it, and has no desire to conquer it.
and most importantly...
a true ruler knows that he is only human, and in knowing this, he also knows that he will make mistakes. but whatever happens, he must learn from them, right what he can, and knows that he is not infallible.
