Why are we being drilled with the idea that we must constantly achieve some goal?

Why aren’t we taught to run barefoot on the grass, to admire the flow of a river, to watch how birds gather into flocks in autumn, and how in spring the snow melts and the first timid stream breaks through the crust of ice? Why can’t we simply live and rejoice in each day instead of driving ourselves into a corner chasing after illusory happiness?

— Irina Bogdanova

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republc for which it stands one nation under god indivisible with liberty and justice for all.