What is it to be American? Yes, we have problems and prejudices. Yes, we are a melting pot, but we have much in common. We don't emphasize, nor do we build on, our commonalities enough. Diversity to a certain extent is good. Let’s not dwell on our differences. Respect them yes, but find things that bind us as individuals and as communities.
Is that such a radical of an idea?
What is culture? Culture: is a shared, learned, symbolic system of values, beliefs and attitudes that shapes and influences perception and behavior -- an abstract "mental blueprint" or "mental code."
Would you agree that American culture includes most of the following?
1. Values: individualism, altruism and Judeo-Christian morals.
2. Food: The hot dog, the hamburger, and fried chicken.
3. Music: Black gospel, southern gospel, and rock 'n roll.
4. Spectator Sports: Baseball, football, and basketball.
5. Movies: the Sound of Music, Star Wars, and the Godfathers.
6. Cars: Corvette, Lincoln and Jeep.
7. TV: I Love Lucy, Bill Cosby, and Touched by an angel.
8. Heroes: Abraham Lincoln, John Wayne, and Michael Jordan.
9. Individual sports: Tennis, fishing, and rollerblading.
There is more that unites Americans than divides us. There are those who seek to divide and destroy us from within and without. There are those who play on our fears and prejudices on BOTH sides of the political aisle.
Legal immigrants are welcome, but assimilate, melt into what is American. Learn English so you can reap the full benefit of being in America. Get involved in politics and vote.
We do not have to be ashamed to say that we are Americans. My ancestors were from Europe, but I am an American. I for one am proud to be an American. I am not proud of were America is headed, but I respect and appreciate those values and ideals on which we were founded and which I seek to see restored.
Note: Much of this posting is based on an entry I made today at the OPEN: Ohio Politics forum (#1065).
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