When did America become so hateful? When did we think it was okay to burn the American flag or assault people for their opinions? When did the country become so divided? None of this is because of recent events; we have been in this state for a long time now.

Life isn't perfect. We may disagree with each other over choices and opinions, but if we all had the same views, our lives would be boring. With this in mind, we shouldn't act irrationally and lash out over differing opinions. We are better than that. We do not need to “unfriend” people on Facebook or disassociate ourselves from them. I’m sorry, but we have stooped to an all-time low.

I’m not here to tell you that you’re a bad person or that expressing how you feel isn’t acceptable. Simply take a step back and look at yourself in the bigger picture. Consider how you act and ask yourself, “Will this change anything? Will my outrageous behavior really have an affect on anything other than the fact that I am making myself look foolish?”

America is not united right now. We are divided, angry and upset, and that is not what this country is about. We are supposed to act strong, stand tall and thank the men and women who gave us all of the opportunities that we have today.

We need to stop blaming others for our problems. We need to stop involving ourselves in the drama. We need to stop feeling entitled. If you want change, earn it. Educate your family and educate yourself. It all starts with you.

Stop spreading hate. Love conquers all. Love will be there when nothing else is.

Stop rioting. Stop protesting. Stop staging walkouts. Stop hating. Live your life. Go to work. Go to school. Learn. Make money. Provide for your family. Don’t waste your time doing things that will get you nowhere. Make yourself happy and be happy. Everyone struggles, you may not directly observe it, but many people are fighting a battle everyday. There are some things we can’t change, and instead of dwelling on it, make the most out of it. It is much better to lead a life of positivity than to live a life of negativity. You are in control of your own happiness, NOBODY else. It all begins with you.

“Just because I don’t fight back doesn’t mean I’m weak. It means I’m mature enough to know that anger won’t solve anything.” –Unknown

“One of the truest signs of maturity is the ability to disagree with someone while still remaining respectful.” -Unknown