"すべての国家、新しい国家も古い国家も複合国家もその主要な基盤は良い法律と良い武器です"

This quote cuts right to the heart of what makes a country stable and successful. At its core, it’s saying that for any state—whether it’s just been established or has been around for centuries—the two most crucial elements are solid laws and a strong military. Good laws ensure justice, order, and fair governance, while good arms (or a capable defense force) protect the state from external threats and maintain internal security.

Historically, this idea has been central to many great civilizations. Think about ancient Rome, where the rule of law, articulated through a complex system of statutes and legal principles, was as vital as the formidable Roman legions. Rome’s laws helped maintain order and facilitated governance across a vast and diverse empire, while its military prowess deterred invasions and quelled rebellions.

Now, let’s dive into a vivid real-life example. Consider Singapore, a modern state that epitomizes this principle. When Singapore gained independence in 1965, it faced numerous challenges, including racial tensions and economic difficulties. The country’s leaders, particularly Lee Kuan Yew, understood the importance of establishing strong legal frameworks and a robust defense system. They implemented strict laws to maintain public order and prevent corruption. Simultaneously, they invested heavily in building a capable military force to ensure national security. Today, Singapore is renowned for its low crime rates, efficient governance, and strong defense, illustrating how good laws and good arms can transform a state.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Think of your personal or professional life as your own mini-state. First, setting good "laws" means establishing clear rules and principles that guide your actions and decisions. These might be personal values, ethical standards, or even practical routines that keep you organized and focused. Good "arms," on the other hand, are the tools and resources you need to defend and advance your interests. This could mean developing skills, acquiring knowledge, or building a network of supportive relationships.

Imagine you’re starting a small business. The “good laws” would be your business plan, company policies, and ethical guidelines. These create a framework within which your business operates smoothly and fairly. Your “good arms” would be your marketing strategies, financial resources, and skilled employees—essential elements that help your business compete and thrive in a challenging market.

Let me share a story that brings this concept to life. I’ve got a friend, Sarah, who decided to open her own bakery. She knew that having great recipes and a passion for baking wasn’t enough. So, she first developed a solid business plan (her “good laws”), which included everything from financial projections to customer service policies. She also invested in top-notch equipment and took a few courses on business management (her “good arms”). Whenever challenges arose—like a temporary dip in sales or a supplier issue—she relied on her well-crafted laws and strong arms to navigate through. Today, her bakery is thriving, and she credits much of her success to the foundational principles she established early on.

In essence, whether you’re running a country, a business, or just managing your day-to-day life, having clear guidelines and strong defenses is key. They provide stability and security, allowing you to focus on growth and success.