We started this venture in October 2022 with a rough idea of the effort and need and more optimism than pessimism about our nation’s future and the road ahead. We are a nation born of conflict and struggle but always with an appreciation and understanding of our past and present and an eye toward the future. Even a cursory reading of our history gives one an understanding of the struggle needed to create and maintain the individual and economic liberties afforded to citizens in our republic.
We often take for granted the freedoms we enjoy and the sacrifices that must be made to preserve these for future generations. Millions are knocking on the door of our southern border to get in because they live under failed governments and failed economic systems. We are not perfect, but we are the best so far, and fighting for our constitutional form of government, coupled with capitalism, is worth the struggle. No other system of government and economic opportunity has provided the freedom and upward mobility available here.
On more than one occasion, I have discussed this effort with friends, and they are always adamant that we push on with thoughtful, fact-based commentary about our nation and the things we believe are eroding its fabric. We are not the only ones sounding an alarm about the loss of our freedoms and how we are losing the historical perspective on our history. Our search has uncovered dozens of websites like ours where individual citizens are voicing their concerns. It is vital for all citizens who feel inclined to speak out to do so in a manner that attracts readership.
By discussing our challenges thoughtfully and in a fact-based manner, we are working to preserve our nation. What often feels negative is just peeling away layers of grime that obscure our vision for our families and Country. It is a way to expose and wash away that which blocks us from achieving all that is possible. Hiding behind the trees in the forest can be domestic and foreign enemies; we must recognize that as we enter.
“Bad men need nothing more to compass (achieve) their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing.”
John Stewart Mill 1867 (Full quote below)
We thank those who write and read as we start a new year. Our nation faces many perils as we head toward another election. While our national challenges are significant, they are small when considering what we have accomplished. The road ahead is always uncertain, but Americans always rise to the challenge.
Like the young girl in this picture, we face significant new challenges and unknowns. We are on the edge of another frontier with perils, and with our coming elections, we are on the edge of the unknown.
We are up to the challenge as a nation, but not without effort and courage. Individual citizens need to stand up for what we know must be preserved and what must be eliminated. Our history shows that many of us dare to walk into the forest without knowing what is on the other side. But like “Little Red Riding Hood,” it is safer to go into the woods with friends and to be aware of the wolves along the way.
The one vote you or I secure with thoughtful debate and discussion might be the one vote needed to win an election. The article you read or write might be the one that changes an opinion or the opinions of many.
“If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.”
Henry Ford
Let us all give thanks for 2023 and step into 2024 with courage and optimism for our families and our nation!
Resources Used in This Article
John Stewart Mill, by Open Culture, openculture.com, March 13, 2016.
Full quote:
“Let not any one pacify his conscience by the delusion that he can do no harm if he takes no part, and forms no opinion. Bad men need nothing more to compass (achieve) their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing. He is not a good man who, without a protest, allows wrong to be committed in his name, and with the means which he helps to supply, because he will not trouble himself to use his mind on the subject.”
John Stewart Mill 1867
