Every man is a consumer, and ought to be a producer. He fails to make his place good in the world, unless he not only pays his debt, but also adds something to the common wealth.

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) American essayist, lecturer, poet

Essay (1860), “Wealth,” The Conduct of Life, ch. 3
    (Source)

Based on a course of lectures, "The Conduct of Life," delivered in Pittsburg (1851-03).