Overview
"You wish to know how I've accumulated wealth? You would like to know what has made me rich?" Peter P. Pence sighed, his steel-gray eyes shining as they connected with reporter Robert Anderson.
"Yes, I would," said Anderson.
There was a lengthy, rather unusual pause seeming to last several minutes as Mr. Pence scratched his forehead beneath his weathered hunter's hat. He snapped his right-hand fingers once and Pumpkin raised herself to a sitting position without once taking her eyes from her master. He looked to his right, where books were stacked in shelves from floor to ceiling. It seemed, perhaps, as if the old man were gathering the strength he needed to speak as clearly and carefully and thoughtfully as possible.
"I shall give you the eleventh commandment, then," he said as he turned back in Anderson's direction.
A clear voice to speak of spiritual and material wealth possibly was never more needed than it is today. Whatever occurred yesterday, whatever might happen tomorrow, the time is at hand for diligent prayer and a stronger work ethic coupled with the conservation of the fruits of all honest labor. Such was the simple belief of Peter P. Pence, modeled after many quiet Kentuckians who've lived out their lives in the hush of rural surroundings, mindful of their history, confident in themselves while they lived, hopeful for new generations in centuries to come.
David Dick has given the world a graceful fable whose message is a return to fundamental principles - a story of triumph over financial and spiritual depravity - a triumph achieved only through self-reliance, commitment to a stronger work ethic and love of God and humanity.
Peter P. Pence Credo
I have come to remind you of
Our community, of our country,
Of our brothers and our sisters
And our relationship to God.
I have come to remind you of
Heritage, of self-worth, self-reliance,
Dignity and responsibility.
I say there is no lasting basis
For despair, cynicism or loss of faith.
I submit there is a far greater
Resource of human goodness,
Spiritual and material wealth
In the United states of America
And throughout the world
Than we would ever dare imagine.
I believe it begins with the penny.