I am an American

photo credit: jcolman via photopin cc

The 2012 Presidential election is behind us and it showed a country that is deeply divided in ideals. Whether I agree or disagree with the results of the election, be it for President, local ballot propositions / initiatives, senate, house, local government, etc., I can proudly say:

I am an American.

Many countries in the world do not afford their citizens the basic right to vote for their representatives. America was established on the principle that the people decide who they want to represent them – who they want to be their national voice, raising their collective hand and saying what they want or what they need and shouting it to the masses. In many other countries, they don't share those same principles. Standing up and voicing an opinion could lead to prison or worse.

In America, we're encouraged to speak our minds. Agree or disagree, we have the fundamental right to freedom of speech. There will always be differences of opinion, but having the ability to share a conversation and present opposing points of view is one of the many things that makes America great. For being able to voice an opinion and having conversation about a variety of issues, I can proudly say:

I am an American.

In elections, much like sports, there are winners and losers. At the end of the day we're all Americans. We're all working toward the collective betterment of our society. While we may not all share the same ideals, beliefs, dreams, etc., we need to stand united, resolute in our determination to strengthen our nation. Name calling, finger pointing, blaming, and bickering are counterproductive activities. Whether we agree with one another or not, we're all working toward a better America. Instead of having fragmented voices, we need to put our idealogical differences behind us and stand united. We need to demand better. We expect better. We are Americans. It's time for all of us to come together, support one another, and strive for better. No more bickering. No more whining. No more blaming. Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. Let's make it count for something.

Some suggestions:

• Volunteer
• Make a charitable donation
• Read a book
• Enjoy the sunset
• Find a new hobby
• Make a new friend
• Travel
• Take pictures
• Explore your city
• Try a new food
• Play a game
• Meditate
• Learn a new skill

As Abraham Lincoln once said,

“a house divided against itself cannot stand.”

It's time for us to set our political and philosophical differences aside and get back to making America great. Knowing the strength of the American resolve with all of us working together, I firmly believe America will grow and prosper. I believe this wholeheartedly. I know this because:

I am an American.

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