I just want to start out saying that I believe in our country. I believe in what we stand for and the way our government works. I believe that everybody can have the chance to achieve the American Dream if they put forth the effort it takes. It might be easier for some people than others, but opportunities rest on every corner.
But I don’t believe our country is as strong as it used to be, and I don’t think that only one person is to blame for this change. Our past leaders used to not be afraid to say what needs to be said and do what needs to be done, but lately it seems that everyone is beating around the bush.
Opinions are no longer just opinions. If you don’t agree with someone else, your opinion gets turned around into something it is not. I also feel like people are now scared to say what needs to be said. America is loosing its fierceness.
The beauty of America is that everyone is different. At the end of the day, not everyone will agree on every decision. But just because someone doesn’t agree, doesn’t mean that they are wrong.
The Confederate flag is one example. Just because someone is fighting for it to stay doesn’t mean that they are racist. That flag means different things to different people. Some think that it’s a part of our history that has made us into what we are today while others are saying that it is a true statement of racism in America. But the thing is, taking away the flag will not take away our problems. Taking that flag down is not going to block out the discrimination that is still present in our society. We need to start focusing more on people and less on material things.
The legalization of gay marriage is another example. You’re either for it or against it. And everyone’s opinion should be celebrated. That Supreme Court ruling was a big step for our country. It brought a lot of people together, but at the same time separated those who don’t agree with it. Christians are being looked down upon because of their beliefs and that’s not right. We need to start respecting people’s opinions. If you don’t, it’s just going to tear this country apart. We were all raised differently and with that comes different views. There’s nothing wrong with a little debate, but it becomes a problem when only one side is celebrated while the other is looked at as being wrong and judgmental.
And like I said, I love this country, but I don’t like the direction we’re headed. Opinions should be welcomed and, more importantly, they should be accepted and respected. If no one can speak their mind without worrying about the consequences -- is this even America?
