illiland Forever

aron Von Lodge was the head of a small country known as Lilliland near Switzerland. The time was the early 1900s.

One of the most serious discussions that the Baron would have with his chief advisor and his fiancée was the future of Lilliland.

These discussions were mostly held at dinnertime in the Great Dining Hall of Lilliland Castle.

The discussions were more serious than frivolous because history reported that many of the nearly indestructible nations and governments faded away into the pages of history. While each of those nations may have fallen for different reasons, one common point was that they tried to conquer the world and expanded so far until their balloon burst.

Since Lilliland was neutral, it had never gone to war. That meant that since the average age of every male was 18, that group of citizens stayed intact. That was a very important age group because it immediately affected the next generation. The average 18-year-old man would likely be married within the next seven years and his wife would perhaps be expecting their first child. And so it went, generation after generation. Wherever war disrupted a country, the death of many of the 18-year-old soldiers changed the sociological progression.

Basically, the Professor said that nothing was forever. But there were three things that a wise leader could do to protect his country from failing sooner rather than later.

First, the Professor said to live in harmony with nature. Do not cut down trees that are not immediately replaced. Do not frighten away the wild animals, like swans and squirrels. Secondly, children should be taught to respect their parents and teachers. Third, follow the golden rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Each generation should preserve their environment for strength and for future generations to enjoy.