After watching the disastrous collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, I kept a close eye on what followed. I will withhold my thoughts until I have some more solid knowledge about the plan of attack to quickly reopen one of the most important American harbors. That is where my thoughts immediately turned, after a quick prayer for those lost and their families.
The event put the magnifying glass on many of the problems facing our Nation. My approach this week is to stay out of the political and supersized government mud industry. Here are some thoughts I’ve shared with you previously. It’s often difficult to find the truth and actual facts. It doesn’t matter what source you choose for the information; it is being driven by analytics trying to prove a fact driven by money and power. Then you throw in social media, which creates a feeding frenzy for a conspiracy theory and the agenda-driven.
I have never seen our Nation more divided and torn further apart on whatever the problem, thought, or issue appears to be. This plays out daily by those elected to lead us in Washington. Common sense and compromise, along with a sense of urgency for what’s best for most Americans, have all but become a thing of the past.
The electronic devices at everyone’s fingertips seem to fuel division, especially on social media. The American people must rise above this and come to this realization. We are so very blessed to call the United States of America our home. Even though times may be tough right now, I still believe there is plenty of opportunity to choose whatever you would like to pursue in life. This needs to be celebrated and appreciated by all. We cannot allow whatever the source is to keep growing hatred and division. I believe that, whatever your political a affiliation is, most want the same thing — a better future for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. United is the keyword because as the division grows, so does the chance for a troubled and failed America.
We must return to understanding that it’s OK to disagree on issues; that is how America was founded and has continued to grow and move forward. We must be more understanding and not expect everyone to agree with our thoughts. The idea of attacking an individual because they don’t have the same beliefs as you must stop — especially when provoked by social media and unproven facts. Most of which are often unjustified and untruths. “We The People” must move forward together and understand it’s OK to agree to disagree.
Those elected to serve the American people must set the example of how to work together for the good of our Nation. Compromise must return. Even if they don’t like the person on the other side of the political aisle, a show of respect goes a long way in solving problems and building a better future.
As I travel through our local communities and see all the progress being made, I’m grateful for our locally elected leaders. This shows me that the two-party system and the ability of Republicans and Democrats to work together is alive and well. I applaud anybody who wants to throw their hat in the political ring and serve the American people because I understand the scrutiny they are under.
As citizens of our great Nation, it’s up to us through the power of our vote to make changes if someone fails to perform their elected duties. This begins with the most locally elected and continues all the way up the ladder to the president.
In closing things out this week, with the kids back outside enjoying Spring activities, please be extra careful while driving. Of course, this time of year, the highway construction workers will be in full swing fixing up and repairing our roadways. It is important to look for and prepare for changed traffic patterns. Please pay extra close attention in work zones for the safety of everyone.
God Bless America.
