I hold a deep affection for my nation. The stunning variety of its landscapes and the rich tapestry of its people fill me with pride. The principles of a government that genuinely represents its citizens resonate with me, as do the checks and balances enshrined in our Constitution.
However, I grapple with mixed emotions regarding our country’s origins—feelings that anyone with a moral compass might experience. I admire the determination and bravery of our founders while simultaneously condemning their colonial actions. I respect their political innovations, yet I detest the undercurrents of white supremacy that marred their legacies. As a character in a popular musical poignantly noted about reconciling the duality of historical figures: “He can have penned an incredible declaration filled with ideals we cherish. And be a terrible person at the same time! Both can hold true.”
America embodies the spectrum of human potential, showcasing both its admirable and flawed traits. It has never been flawless, but it has made earnest attempts to improve, which is why I cherish the America I know.
The America I cherish is one that extends a warm welcome to the weary, the impoverished, and those yearning for freedom. It is built upon the hopes and dreams of immigrants and their descendants seeking new opportunities and pathways. This America strives to uphold its lofty promises of “liberty and justice for all” and the idea of unity in diversity. It takes steps forward, even amid setbacks.
Yet, I find myself at a crossroads. The ground feels unstable, and I perceive our system’s very foundation being challenged as never before. The phrase “liberty and justice for all” seems to be steadily eroding, particularly for those who have called this land home for the majority of their lives. I’ve heard voices from marginalized communities express their struggles to access the basic rights that should be guaranteed to them, only to witness their concerns dismissed by those with the power to enact change.
The presence of emboldened white supremacy has become alarmingly visible, and issues of greed and inequality are exacerbated. Leaders appear intent on regressing to a vague notion of a “great” past without clarifying what that means. I see a focus on tax benefits overshadowing critical issues like healthcare that affect millions. An administration that fosters division among allies isolates us from the global community, while partisan strife threatens the integrity of our institutions and our very humanity.
While selfishness and bigotry have always existed, I don’t recall a time when I questioned the survival of the America I love. I’ve never felt the sting of humiliation tied to my nationality as acutely as I do now.
How can I foster a sense of respect for the Presidency in my children when it is currently characterized by extreme nationalism, questionable appointments, and undignified behavior? How can I instill in them a sense of pride in being American when everything our country stands for seems to be unraveling?
The United States was founded on the belief that governance could be improved. Our founding documents were intentionally left open to interpretation because the creators acknowledged their limitations. The strength of America lies in its ability to adapt and evolve within a framework that protects against tyranny. It seemed like a foolproof plan. But now, I find myself questioning that very premise.
I am weary of feeling as though I have lost the America I once cherished. I am exhausted from explaining to my children that this is not how things should be. I yearn for them to experience and love the America I have known.
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Summary: The author expresses a deep love for America but grapples with the current state of the nation, feeling disillusioned by the erosion of ideals such as liberty and justice. Concerned about the future and how to instill pride in their children amidst these challenges, the author longs for a return to the America they once cherished.