How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #1
Mr. President, we're in trouble. Talk to us about blood and sweat and tears. (9)
Yes, the dissatisfaction is clear. But the real question is, where is that trouble coming from?
Quote #2
In a nation that was proud of hard work, strong families, close-knit communities, and our faith in God, too many of us now tend to worship self-indulgence and consumption. (31)
Is it a bird, a plane? No, it's a super criticism, a hefty critique of a citizenry by its President.
Quote #3
Human identity is no longer defined by what one does, but by what one owns. But we've discovered that owning things and consuming things does not satisfy our longing for meaning. We've learned that piling up material goods cannot fill the emptiness of lives which have no confidence or purpose. (31)
Notice Carter's use of the past tense (i.e. we've discovered). He's assuming that Americans are aware, at least partially, of this change in values. He's assuming that they have already wrestled with this moral crisis on some level.
Quote #4
What you see too often in Washington and elsewhere around the country is a system of government that seems incapable of action…You see every extreme position defended to the last vote, almost to the last breath by one unyielding group or another. You often see a balanced and a fair approach that demands sacrifice, a little sacrifice from everyone, abandoned like an orphan without support and without friends. (37)
At least we can all agree on a common enemy, right? Interesting that the President, the leader of government, is quick to express his dissatisfaction for how the very organization that he runs is functioning.
Quote #5
Our people are losing that faith, not only in government itself but in the ability as citizens to serve as the ultimate rulers and shapers of our democracy. (37)
Notice Carter's wording. He's saying that Americans are losing faith, which implies that they had it (faith) at one point. What's caused this change, this sudden doubt?