This past Sunday, my parents were talking about the lack of patriotism they see in millennials. They discussed their concern that this next generation doesn't care enough about this country. But it's becoming increasingly difficult. We have been so very blessed to live in a free country like the United States. We may be thankful, but are we proud? In light of all the tragedy that's occurred recently, isn't it understandable that we're losing pride? Something has to be done. I know that I am only one person out of many. Billions of people with even more opinions. But here are seven things that I think need to change:
1. Law Enforcement
Due to recent tragedies, issues pertaining to law enforcement and racism have been brought to the forefront of America's mind. Recently, police officers have been accused of killing two African American men unjustly and five officers were killed at a Black Lives Matter rally. I am not going to pretend to know all of the details. But what I do know is that the violence must end. There needs to be a mutual respect between law enforcement officials and people of all races. Some police officers are racist and should be dealt with appropriately. Some civilians are disrespectful of the honorable cops who are actually there to protect and serve. It is a two way street that must be mended. All lives, black, white, blue and every one in between, matter and need to start respecting one another.
2. Gun Laws
There have been so many mass shootings in the recent past. People no longer feel safe in normal places like movie theaters and churches. I may be deemed a liberal for saying this, but I think something should be done. Don't get me wrong, I fully support the 2nd Amendment and feel much safer when I know those around me, whom I trust, are carrying and are able to protect me. I don't have all the answers. (I barely have any). But we need to find a way to keep guns out of the hands of the wrong people. I know that criminals will get their hands on weapons whether it's legal or not, but let's not make it easier for them.
3. Security
Until we can figure out how to keep weapons in the hands of the right people and out of the hands of the others, we may need more security. Singer Christina Grimmie was murdered at her own concert by a "crazed fan." If she had more security, would she have survived? We will never know. Will increasing security decrease our freedoms? Maybe. Is it worth it? Is it something to look into? Maybe.
4. The Party System
We're too busy arguing over party lines to get anything done. Everything becomes a screaming match between the conservatives and the liberals, the Republicans and the Democrats. We all need to learn to listen to one another with open minds before anything can be accomplished.
5. Abortion Laws
I really couldn't leave this one out. I believe life begins at conception and when an abortion is committed, so is a murder. With abortion running rampant in the U.S., we are deprived of so many beautiful lives and souls with the potential to do great things. The world could be a much better place with these lives in it.
6. Politically Correct Journalism
The American people (including myself) need to be more educated. Journalists have the noble call to help keep the American public informed. This needs to be done with as little bias as possible. Journalists are not doing their jobs if they allow themselves to be influenced by those in power. Being politically correct is overrated. The American people deserve the truth, no matter the cost.
7. Y'all Need Jesus
Freedom of religion is a HUGE part of the United States. I'm not saying we force Jesus on every American. I believe the closer we as individual are to Christ, the more people will see His love through us. When this happens on a national level, the United States will change for the better. There will be less violence. There will be less racism. There will be a lesser need for security. If the love of Christ can change a person's heart, it can change a nation.
I have so many more questions than answers. And I probably have way too many opinions. But I believe these first six subjects need immediate attention if America wants to improve. The seventh one needs immediate attention on a very personal level. When the individuals of this nation choose to follow Christ, these other issues may become less pressing.
