Values and character

We were not a nation
but principalities within a nation
loyalty was to a ruler
and rulers fought with each other.
Independence made us one nation
but mindsets didn't change
only politicians became the rulers.
The ones who took no sides
they were common people
religion and values kept them together
and not politics or political opinion.
Where earlier values and character mattered
money and corruption made inroads.
When we keep the nation above ourselves
and make sacrifices in national interest
our values and character shall guide our steps
and nothing can then hold our progress!