It comes as no surprise to anyone when I say, we are a deeply divided nation. It probably would also surprise no one if I say, we cannot remain divided without becoming a weaker nation. But a weak nation is not how we envision ourselves. We are respected, and we rightfully respect ourselves because of our strength; this was not a gift bestowed upon us, we earned it as a people. Because of our strength, we were able to defeat our World War I and World War II enemies. Our unity was an indispensable element in the achievement of that success.
Some may argue: “So, we don’t get along; who cares; so be it; I don’t like those people anyway.” To say that would be flippant…and dangerous. Let me give one reason why. Conflict between people groups has been a fact of life since the beginning of time, and it’s a sure bet such conflict will endure as long as man lives on the planet.
Since the founding of our country, we have been able to protect ourselves from foreign aggression, and our ability to continue to do so may well be dependent upon our capacity to pull together as American citizens. This topic may be more than an academic one. China is putting a full effort into overtaking us as the world’s technological, economic and military power within 20 years.
Does their intention present a threat to us? Time will tell, but their claim of ownership of the South China Sea, and their military effort to drive that claim home, have certainly received the world’s attention. If that sea were insignificant, perhaps the claim could be ignored, but in fact, much of the world’s commerce traverses it.
Those who believe our division must be healed, are left with the question: how?
Our political leaders can intentionally or unintentionally create division for reasons sometimes unclear to us, and we cannot always trust that their motives are well thought through, and are in the long-term best interest of our country. As citizens, we have the responsibility to think for ourselves, and express our thoughts through our votes.
May I suggest that we prepare for the upcoming election by going outside of our normal channels of information, and do our best to understand other points of view? And if you spend a lot of time on social media, let me pass on a thought from a young man I recently spoke with. He told me, in his view, it is partly responsible for our division. Instead of spending time with those around us, we’re on social media with those who think like us. Also, years ago, news sources were limited; today, I can get my news from 10 sources which reflect my limited point of view. They reinforce my bias; not that I see myself as biased, but everyone is.”
Security through strength, brought about by unity, is only one of America’s achievements. I can say with little doubt, it is probably at the base of all the reasons we thrive. For these reasons, if for no other, let’s come together and again engage with one another.
