The New American Way

As Americans have witnessed our incredible country and society change over the past several decades, each from unique perspectives, we are justified in our concern. This is probably not a new feeling, but for most, one that has grown for many years. I know that we can correct our current course. We can mitigate damages done and institute new paths toward human decency, equality and tolerance; respectful communication and empathy; and especially accountability, honor and ethics. For too long, unethical individuals, corporations, politicians and special interest groups, including portions of the media, have eroded and tarnished our assumed societal contract for their self-interests, out of greed and fear. They have eroded our trust, stolen hard-earned pay from retirees and investors, diverted resources, and abused many humans, animals, and the environment, in a multitude of ways. From portions of Wall Street and corporate juggernauts to corrupt executives and special interest groups, from bullies to abusive authoritarian figures, we, the American people have ample cause to question and think twice before accepting what we hear in the media, see printed on a label, read what's posted online, or what we're taught to trust in regard to authority and the system- business, government, clergy, authority figures, employers, our education system, health care, the list is long... This is especially true for minorities and the less fortunate end of the economic spectrum. We are forcing the reinvention of 'The American Way' (ex Nuclear family). We need to hold on fiercely to our instinctual faith in the goodness of humanity, yet be wise and educated as to potential pitfalls, schemes and fraudsters set out to derail our finances, families and freedoms. We must invest in the changes we desire and the lifestyle we seek. We will continue to passionately protect ourselves, our homes and neighbors, and voice our opinions. We have the power to enact change, and we are overwhelmingly good, and filled with the desire to create, not destroy. We need to remind ourselves of everything that we came from -the good and the bad. The dark chapters of our history as well as the triumphant ones, so that we learn, remember, and support the right paths. Yes, we are frustrated. Yes, we are angry at things that have been done and said. Yet, we can become a better nation, and nurture the change toward a stronger America that we are ALL proud to call home.