Happy 250th to the USA!

I was born in 1976 and remember being referred to as a bicentennial baby growing up. There was a pride during America's 200th birthday that seems to be missing today. Is it because we imagine that we have coped with more problems or endured more tragedies than those who came before us? Sometimes, I believe we convince ourselves that is true and focus on everything we imagine is wrong rather than remembering that the United States has always been made better by those who saw where things could improve and dedicated themselves to changing them.

My parents watched the assassination of JFK and then his brother. They witnessed the only president to ever resign his office. My father-in-law fought in Vietnam and almost never talked about it. No, I do not believe we have less pride in our country today because the situation is that much more dire than it was 50 years ago.

My grandparents endured World War II, an era when everyone lost someone to war or disease. Did they wallow in self-pity and spout hate for the country they lived in? No, they planted victory gardens, coped with rations, and risked their lives for the freedoms they believed in.

So, what makes us different? My generation watched as the Twin Towers fell on 9/11. I was pregnant with my daughter and afraid of what it would mean. The USA is not used to being attacked on its own ground, but we rallied. People supported each other and came together in a way that seems almost unimaginable today when people are quick to 'unfriend' and 'go no contact.'

Why have we forgotten what is great about being American? Political divisiveness is nothing new, as I wrote about yesterday. Why do we wallow in despair rather than work for positive change?

The recent influx of foreign visitors for the World Cup has been a welcome reminder of all that is great about this country. Have you watched some of the videos of Europeans enjoying trips to American stores and restaurants with free refills and air conditioning? How about their reactions to places like Yellowstone? One of them has been quoted saying, 'If you want to hate America, watch the news. If you want to love America, drive through it.' Perhaps it takes a fresh point of view to remind us that this really is a wonderful, beautiful place.

Does the US still have problems. Yes, it always has and always will, as does every other place on earth. But over the last 250 years Americans have worked, fought, and come together to accomplish amazing things. That is our potential. That is our hope. And we have the privilege of being part of that progression through history.

Make the most of it.

Happy 250 to the USA!

Explore America's exciting history with nonfiction and fiction, a great way to celebrate America at 250! You can find all of my books on Amazon, contact me to order signed copies, or request from your favorite independent bookstore.