As we celebrate Independence Day, it’s a fitting time to reflect not just on the challenges we face as a nation, but also on the freedoms we cherish. With that in mind, I’d like to share some thoughts on what this day means to me, and hopefully, ignite a conversation about what it signifies to all of us.
When we contemplate America, our thoughts often gravitate toward the nation’s most pressing issues. It could be the absence of universal healthcare, the persistence of institutionalized racism, or the dominance of dark money in politics. While it’s crucial that we fight to address these issues and strive for a freer and fairer nation, let’s also use Independence Day as a reminder that we live in a country where change and reform, though challenging, are possible. Often, we are so engulfed in critiquing this country (myself included) that we overlook our privileged position. Today, I urge myself, and all of you, to take a moment to appreciate the opportunities and freedoms we enjoy.
Patriotism isn’t inherently wrong. However, in the United States, our love for this country should not be rooted in its current state, but rather in its potential. Don’t love the United States for what it is, love the United States for what it could be! Let’s not merely embrace the country that America is, but the ideals that “America” represents—the principles of self-determination, liberty, justice, equality, and democracy!
Our nation has a considerable amount of healing to undergo. I believe the initial step towards this healing is acknowledging that despite our diverse origins, creeds, upbringings, and viewpoints, we are united in our aspiration to form ‘…a more perfect Union.‘
Happy Independence Day! God bless you, and God bless these United States of America!
