THE IDEA OF AMERICA

America is an idea, even a good idea. That idea is expressed in the Declaration of Independence and codified in the Constitution. The idea of America is more than some mere "-ism" (capitalism, socialism, etc.). The American idea is symbolized by the "Stars and Stripes" waving in the wind. American soldiers and statesmen swear to defend that idea, even at the cost of their lives. American allies and enemies both recognize the power of that idea. Politicians must act to appear aligned with that idea. Many may mock America, but the idea of America remains untarnished. Citizens of America form communities holding on to the hope of that idea. Children are raised to realize the truth of the American idea, learning how they, too, may participate in making that idea prosper. It is a durable dream that drives Americans to realize freedom as their birthright and thus to live free in the face of all other apparent realities.

I am unapologetically American. It grieves me how this great idea has been reduced to facile political sloganeering plastered on bumpers and flaunted in photo-ops and bandied about on blogs. Let's work to re-imagine the idea that is America, willing the best that can be, rather than the worst that might be. We are blessed to be Americans. Let us not be ashamed to always pray, "God bless America!"