So, then, to every man his chance –
to every man, regardless of his birth,
his shining, golden opportunity –
to every man the right to live,
to work,
to be himself,
and to become whatever thing his manhood and his vision can combine to make him–
this, seeker, is the promise of America.

~ Thomas Wolfe

The Meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance as told to Red Skelton by his teacher.