This is the first of many letters I will receive from a man named Mr. W. I met this man months ago at my place of work, and we engage in weekly philosophical conversations. There are a few spelling errors, but I decided I'm going to write word-for-word what's included in the letter.
The question: How do you love your country?
This question came from a comment made by former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and current Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, who both stated that they think the Mr. Obama does not love the country he is President of.
I may or may not agree with the politicians view of Mr. Obama, but there is a larger questions which was answered in a CNN editorial. I have used the ideas from the editorial to give you some ideas.
1. Support a strong central government. The Articles of Confederation were a disaster. The U.S. Constitution was designed by men who wanted a strong central government so as to build unity, strengthen the economy and defend the homeland.
2. Be skeptical of too much centralized governmental power. Inconsistent? Well, that tension is at the heart of the American experience. George Washington and Alexander Hamilton wanted national strength; Thomas Jefferson and James Madison did not. To truly love America is to hold both ideas in your head at once.
3. Embrace immigrants they bring new ideas and bolster our work force.
4. Connect with a soldier or a veteran. Less than 1% of all Americans serve in uniform, protecting the other 99% of us. You should be able to name someone who is serving in the military — and tell them "Thanks."
5. Recognize that we have has a history of discrimination in our nation. Institutions, such as slavery, organization such as the KKK, and the Sword, Arm, and Convent of the Lord show how prejudice was, can be, but it also shows how far we have come as a society. The goal is not "My Country, Right or Wrong," but rather "Love Your Country: Right its Wrongs."
6. Travel around America. Meet some of its people. They are an amazing bunch.
7. Travel the world. When you return celebrate and embrace what is good about us and what can make better by copying the other nations good points.
8. Listen to someone you disagree with.
9. Inform yourself. Arm yourself with facts if you want to really love your country.
10. Question our leaders. Do not allow yourself to be blindly led into war or conflict without and exchange of idea.
The quote: My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. John F. Kennedy
Carpe Diem
Mr. W
lil, I think you would have an interesting take on this subject.