United or divided?
We live in a country called the United States of America, which is based on freedom, liberty and justice.
It’s the land of opportunity. For most of our history we have been united in these concepts — most, but
not all. Throughout the history of our nation, people from all over the world have come to our shores in
search of freedom and opportunity. This has continued non-stop, including in today’s polarized political
climate.
Our country has also faced numerous issues that have caused — even inspired — discussions, debates and
arguments. Some include taxation, exploration of the vast western wilderness, the “Indian” problem in
the 1800s, among other historical problems.
There have been different viewpoints on all of these. Viewpoints have been discussed and solutions found.
And our country has developed into the strongest, most successful one in the world — economically,
politically, militarily and every way a country can be judged.
Some people may want to disagree with that statement, but the point is our country is successful and
desirable by millions of people.
Our system of government and the economy has made the USA a formidable place to live.
With success comes those who feel the need to challenge what works, and the divisiveness that occurs.
Many times in our history we have been divided.
The Civil War split us into two countries briefly. Civil rights, Vietnam and others have seriously
divided us.
Even presidential elections divided us. The election in 1960 was a close one, as was the election in
1968. When the final results were in, we rallied around the winning candidate.
In 2000 the electoral college determined the final results. The supporters of the losing candidates
didn’t like the result but stood behind the winner in all three elections mentioned.
In 2016, it was very different. There were protests and calls for impeachment even before Donald Trump
took office. Our country has never had divisions like this before. The opposition may not have liked the
candidate and winner — but to protest everything he does, is not good for our country.
It has always been who has the best qualifications and qualities be elected. At least that is the way it
should be.
Unity comes from all sides working together. Working together is the only way to solve problems and
resolve differences. It is the only way to be truly united.
Constant criticism and protesting only further divides us. We, as a nation, need to be together, for the
good of the country. Not for special interest groups, not for other ideologies, not for partisan
politics, but for what the Constitution gives us. Not an interpretation based on politics.
Remember “United We Stand?” This brought us together after 9-11. Then what happened? Protesting became
the norm, and forgotten was the reason for, “United We Stand.”
As citizens we won’t always agree with our government leaders, but still we must work together and be
united in the concepts of freedom, liberty and justice.
Herb Dettmer is a retired Bowling Green resident, U.S. Army veteran and writes this column
representing the viewpoint of “Joe Average” citizen. He is freelance writer and author of “Others,” a
devotional book. Call or text “Joe” with comments at 419-494-4641.