There are constant claims on both sides of the aisle claim that “democracy is under attack” but in reality, both political parties are guilty of not addressing the real problems we face as a nation but rather blaming the other for the country’s ills. Like Nero playing his fiddle while Rome burns our politicians continue to seek political leverage while not addressing the real concerns that threaten the very existence of our nation.
Yes, in the end, Democracy will probably survive, but our inability to work together will only lead to our continued decline as a world power. I fear that in my lifetime I have seen America at her very best – the Marshall Plan that saved Europe after a devastating world war, the emergence of the United States as a world power, placing a man on the Moon, and our once vast military and technical superiority that is now being eclipsed by the PRC.
As JFK stated, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” We were once willing to pay that price but now we sheepishly withdraw from Afghanistan and leave behind those who were willing to risk their very lives for the ideal of freedom. We appear to be no longer a David with moral principle and backbone but rather a Pontius Pilot looking for an excuse.
I fear that my grandchildren will never have the opportunities that this great nation afforded me or anyone else that was willing to work hard and persevere in pursuit of the American Dream. If we are ever to get this country back on track all need to tone down the rhetoric and name calling and rise above the noise and offer real solutions. It has been very disappointing to see POTUS use his bully pulpit this past week for purely partisan purposes and not attempt to offer working solutions acceptable to the majority of Americans.
America and Americans are an unfinished task. We are both imperfect and perfect at the same time – a duality created by our founding fathers forever creating friction that produces great heat and light that is seen worldwide. A light on a hill that forever attracts those seeking Freedom. As we approach Patriots Day and remember those innocent Americans who were struck down on 9/11 May God bless America and those today who defend her.
