Frustrated on the Fourth

Something feels different this July 4th holiday weekend.

Is it because I don’t feel comfortable going to a crowded pool on the busiest day of the season for fear of being exposed to the coronavirus?

Is it because I am so disappointed in our current leaders who have ignored the science and facts that are the foundation of what makes this country so great?

Is it because I am starting to see the true colors of some people who continue to support this racist president? People who can’t understand why it IS NOT okay to say “all lives matter” until everyone is given a level playing field, treated equally and afforded the same opportunities to succeed?

Is it because I know there are still children in cages at the border, women still fighting for the right to choose, and the LGBTQ community who have to overcome incredible obstacles for the pursuit of happiness?

Yes. Yes to all of the above.

But, I still have hope that we Americans will remember who we are and where we come from. I hope we can open our minds and hearts and step aside to give others a chance to contribute to this beautiful melting pot. I hope the next time I recite the Pledge of Allegiance, we will have come together as reasonable people and exchange ideas (even conflicting ones) to make “justice for all” a reality.

Yes, there are wonderful things to celebrate about this country. And I’ll have a beer and a burger and spend time with family and a few close friends today to celebrate our independence. I will also hope that the future is bright for all its citizens and those who want to be citizens someday.

History has its eyes on us.