… are surely one of the most diverse group of people on this planet. As a result we are also highly innovative and creative due to the rich blending of ideologies, cultural heritages, ancestry, history, language, and so on.

Democracy Isn’t Easy, but it’s worth the Fight!

Of course, this diversity does come with it’s own set of parameters (and problems) regarding our perception of how we view things. Such as the governing of our mighty country and our people (all of us).

The tenets of our country (Declaration of Independence) proclaim loud and clear the very substance of our land that moves our democracy forward (‘lo these many years of alternating strife and prosperity)  is the proclaiming and achieving of individual freedoms.

It hasn’t stopped or diminished. Just changed. We have freedom of speech in this country. This means we are a people accustomed to sharing our  opinions, of airing our grievances –  we aren’t afraid to say them. This in turn, generates (on any given time period) outrage, anger, distention and conversely hope, potential and ultimately, through discourse, resolution.

It is quite the amazing thing, if you think about it. The freedom to express our thoughts on any subject reins supreme. Chaotic, highly uncomfortable, and rife for potentially strong emotions to give rein.

There is never a smoothness to democracy. Being “fair” for everyone just doesn’t happen. But it’s a never ending goal with many balances and counter balances as we work our way to greater understanding and acceptance of changes in our lives.

Fundamentally what drives, (moves) us and our country forward is this exchange of opinions, ideas, concerns and desires. This is what makes our country the greatest on the planet. A heritage that all Americans share in.

And that means we are going to get it wrong, sometimes a lot, but we don’t stop working on getting it right.

Because we all have a “voice” democracy stays permutable, that is to say, a constant work in progress. No easy or permanent “fixing” of the whole.

Democracy isn’t easy. You better want it bad and you better be prepared to weather the storms of differing opinions that may not be your own. Just remember, It’s these differences that lead to change and further growth.

Right now we Americans and the entire planet are watching our democracy in action, perhaps at it’s worse but perhaps also at it’s best. As for us, we the people … be concerned – it’s important. Voice your opinion – it’s important, be engaged – it’s important, but never, ever stop being proud of being an American, of your Country, your home, your people. It’s yours and mine.

Thank you,

~ Penny