Future Americana

Often I dream of what this country could become, loving her potential and loathing her possible decline. When faced with the many problems and concerns that surround Americans today, it is easy to despair and resign oneself to the inevitable reality of coming events. There is another approach, however, in putting faith in a system that has proved itself worthy time and again, continually outshining the tired ways of the old world. More than two hundred years ago, men of different religions, backgrounds and political persuasions sat down to discuss the viability of a unified nation, one that would serve to benefit their descendents. Not for glory or to make a name, these founding fathers simply wished to induce a way of life that would literally benefit all.

It is known that these men were not in full agreement, as some had to sit out of the final vote for independence in order to preserve the untainted historical record of a unanimous vote to seperate from England. Still, the fact that the dissidents desired the good of the many versus the one shows a certain nobleness and honor in working through disagreement. History also reveals that the sin of slavery could not be erased from America before she began, though the opposition fought hard to write it out of existence. Even this horrible thing, which the founding fathers said would later divide the nation unto war, did not stop agreement from moving forward.

Many years and countless tears were spent in trying to bring equality to all peoples of America, and the work continues to this day. The future of this country poses endless possibilities, presenting a nation that might endeavor to enact true freedom and equality across the diverse spectrum of humanity. It is not difficult to imagine a state that offers the benefits of marriage to all who choose to partake. In the same way it is not impossible to envisage protecting the life of all humans, regardless of intelligence, physical development, or the circumstances of their conception. Pointed rhetoric has seemingly ended the possibility of opposing sides working together to come to reasonable agreements that might strengthen all. Remembrance, though, of our ancestors before us, inspires the high road--the path that transcends egos and puts first the dignity and respect of all mankind. These things are possible, and time has afforded this nation much opportunity for continued growth, a deeper sense of meaning and purpose, and the ability to love.