When I first came to the United States – in July 1988 – I was young and easily impressed. Having had a penchant for politics, I quickly made it a point to immerse myself in the politics of the nation.
During my travels with Up With People, I have had the privilege of traveling through 48 of the 50 states (I’ll let you guess which two I’ve yet to visit) and have stayed with hundreds of host families. These families represented the fabric of this great nation. They were the America I had read about growing up in Canada. A nation where anything is possible, a nation where your dreams can come true.
Fast forward 20 years. I am no longer a visitors but now a permanent resident. I am no an observer, I live and breathe this place we call America.
On this day, I am sadden by the state of the nation. Never has this nation been so polarized. A nation divided gets us nowhere.
People – you need to wake up. We are stronger when we stand together. Wear your badge proudly – be a Republican or Democrat, be liberal or conservative – but don’t do it at the expense of common dialogue. Our nation is in need of people who are willing to come to the table to make this place an even better place. We won’t always agree, but if we come to the table prepared to work together, anything is possible.
The idea of America is possible because we share a common purpose – in this country all is possible. Quit your whining – your nation needs you.
