Max Baucus: “in Ecclesiastes, the Preacher warns: The race is not to the swift, or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to…”

“in Ecclesiastes, the Preacher warns: The race is not to the swift, or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise, or wealth to the brilliant, or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all. America is used to being the swiftest. We are used to being the strongest. America has become used to winning the race. We have become used to receiving the cream of the world's wealth. But we would do well to heed the warning of Ecclesiastes, for time and chance will happen to us, as well. New global competitors have entered the race. Over time, they are growing stronger and more learned. America cannot leave winning the race to chance. We must redouble our speed. We must redouble our learning if we are not to fall behind. That is why I started in June of 2005 delivering a series of addresses on America's economic leadership. That is why, during the last Congress and this one as well, I have introduced a series of bills addressing American competitiveness.”