Indelible Identity – Sunday, April 16, 1950
In fiction and in fairy tale a favorite plot is for the prince to move among his people in disguise. Such plots have a host of variations in a long line of literature, and it makes exciting reading when the pauper proves to be the prince or when the grand lady changes places with her maid. In literature such situations may be easily possible, but in life we cannot much rely on not being known. Fugitives have often found this out. Sometimes they go to the ends of the earth; but almost surely, sooner or later, someone discovers their identity. Gambling on not being known isn’t a very good gamble. Often people are surprised at meeting friends in far places. But seasoned travelers learn never to be surprised at meeting almost anyone almost anywhere. We may think we shall lose ourselves in the big city, but, trite as it may seem to say so, it is a small world. We can never be sure that our actions aren’t observed by someone we know or by someone whom we shall later come to know. And those who indulge in “away-from-home” actions and attitudes often learn this and often have cause to be very much embarrassed. If we make fools of ourselves a thousand miles away, the news will likely get back sooner than we will. But this isn’t the only reason for behaving ourselves. We ought to have enough common sense and character to do it anyway. Our own principles and self-respect and inner approval should give us reason enough, no matter where we are. Personal principles shouldn’t shift with geography. But even if there were no question of principle, even if there were no question of conscience, it would still be well to remember that we just can’t be sure that we won’t be seen by someone whom we shall sometime see again. It isn’t ever safe to suppose that the news won’t get back. Our record and reputation travel with us. More than that, they often precede us and show up almost anywhere. In fiction, the prince may be protected in his disguise, but in life we cannot rely on not being known. Our identity is indelible.
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April 16, 1950
Broadcast Number 1,078