Twice this week, different people reminded me of the abundant freedoms afforded in our country and the many ways our citizens enjoy these freedoms. Ironically, both were immigrants to the United States, people who came to America and were able to compare the state of their own countries to the practices and policies here. At first, I was somewhat embarrassed at how we were characterized, basically, a spoiled people who have no clue of the conditions under which others live. In some ways, they’re absolutely on target, but not completely.
Do we forget what we have at times? I believe so. Should we be thankful for the freedoms we have available to us? You bet, at least for those of us who are able to benefit from them. The problem, sometimes, is not all are privy to the same freedoms, and the ability of those who do profit to advocate for those who don’t demonstrates the actual purpose of our freedoms. In other words, we’re not above improvements in our society, regardless of how well we’re doing compared to other communities.
Can you imagine if throughout the history of America, no one believed we could be better? So many advancements would never have occurred–abolishing slavery, due process and equal protection, the right to vote for all citizens, desegregation, lawful inter-racial marriage, pregnancy discrimination, Americans with Disabilities Act, Family and Medical Leave Act, and rights of same sex couples–and these only touch on civil rights. The argument could be made for any progress, whether medical, technological, and scientific, for example.
Working towards an equal playing field for all of our citizens to improvements in our standard of living constitute the very characteristics of a civilized society. This isn’t a promotion of mindless dissatisfaction or entitlement; it begs more of basic humanity. So, while listening to and throughly understanding the sentiments of those who have traveled from more difficult circumstances, we can’t undermine our dedication to the rectification of past and present flaws and misinterpretations. Our forward movement can only insure our country’s future hope of greatness.
Quote of the Day
“The enemy is fear. We think it is hate, but it is fear.” Gandhi
Designs on Life 