Donald Trump’s campaign slogan is “Make America Great Again.” Here’s my question. When did the United States become not great? Don’t get me wrong. The United States is not perfect. That does not mean we are not still a great nation.
I could make a long list of the things that make this country great. But let me provide you a couple of reasons that are particularly applicable at this point in time. First, we have the right to complain about our government without fear of governmental retribution. On the day President Obama landed in Havana, the Cuban government was busy arresting political dissidents. Cuba is not the only country where this happens. Here in the United States political opposition has become a spectator sport for all to enjoy and at the end of the day, no one is arrested.
Second, the peace that comes with our political process. Oh I realize that this year it seems particularly less than peaceful. But I’m not talking about peaceful campaigns made up of polite discourse and disagreement (although I wish I could). Rather, I am talking about a peaceful change of power. In November, we will hold national elections. There won’t be bombs at our polling places. No one will try to force you to vote for a specific candidate. Instead, you will cast a secret ballot for the candidates you prefer. In January, regardless of who wins, there will be a peaceful transition of power after a swearing in ceremony. Washington may not be any less rancorous but the shedding of blood will not be required for a change of power.
We have so many freedoms. We have so many opportunities. Yes, this country is far from perfect. But the United States is still a great nation. There is no better example of this than the fact that many people risk their lives every day for a chance to live in this country. The loss of life is heartbreaking. Do you really think that people would be willing to risk their lives in an effort to come here if this was not a great country? The United States has plenty of issues to resolve, but it is still a great country.
Do you agree? Why or why not?
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