Dear Fellow Americans

Dear Fellow Americans,
          Please, I beg of you, get a grip! Now that I have released that exasperation let me speak rationally.

I have been observing around me this month more hatred from all perspectives than I have seen in my life. People have restored their blinders and ear plugs which were vastly tossed many many years ago by the majority of people, allowing voices and differences to be discussed without harm. With them restored people are seeing only their way again and if someone doesn't see their way then deeming them wrong.Why are people erasing all the progress that has been made, resorting to old failed closed minded methods? American isn't about being right or wrong, it's about being able to hold the freedom to have opinion without fear of persecution. Yet all around fellow citizens are persecuting one another on the grounds of disagreeing. Lashing out and accusing one another based on not facts, but personal feelings and assumptions. Just because someone speaks their mind and it isn't like doesn't mean you should tell them to leave! They have the same right to say their say as any other in a peaceful respectful way. That's just it though there is no respectful discussing or healthy debating, rather it has exploded into downright  feuding that's spreading like wildfire.

Leaving me to wonder, Have people lost sight?   Have they forgotten? Forgotten we are all on the same "team"  and that team is United States of America. It's not about being red or blue, it's not about race or gender, it's not about your way or my way. The only colors that matter should be the combination of Red, White and Blue! Think back to 9/11, yes I am going there. A time in the most recent past where I had such pride in being a Fellow American.  For many believe now, or so it would seem, that their fellow neighbors are the enemy. Also a reminder to each of those emotions that struck through so many. That invisible string connecting each of us became so visible, not just to one another but to the whole world. Where we all were truly UNITED despite our differences. It didn't matter if you were in New York that day or on the west coast we all shared the same pain, and unity. We came together as Americans.

Where did that go? Where did the civility and respect go? Where is the unity to improve and fix problems? Where is America?

For everyone the history of America may be interpreted differently.  Maybe it's my sensitive side combined with growing up in Virginia surrounded with history of America's early times  that keeps the struggles, sacrifice and purpose close at heart. Where early citizens came together despite all odds creating a nation on freedom and a chance, despite the odds and ridicule of others back in England who thought it was a crock pot idea.  Creating the great nation I grew up in.

Why tear ourselves apart when there are so many out there who would love to see us destroyed and fall?

I ask each of you to take a moment from the arguments and spite. Pause, reflecting on your own actions. Ask yourself honestly, What does America mean/represent to you? Why was America born?  How can we restore America together? Analyze your thoughts before you go spouting off to one another. Lastly, look around you at your fellow Americans. They are not your enemy. Despite differences treat them and their opinions the same way you wish yours to be heard. This is not the time to point fingers or spread pettiness  but a time for action putting our heads together with dignity to improve OUR nation.

With Optimism and  Humility

A Fellow American

P.S. One person doesn't make change happen, but one person can inspire change with the action along side of many. Be it positive or negative change.