In Search of Unity

As our society becomes ever more polarized I find myself wondering what might unite us.

God, Country and Family were once revered in these United States. I’m unsure most of the younger generations are even aware of the saying. All three of these institutions have been reduced to mere shadows of their former hallowed selfs.

God has been removed from every facet of public life. Teaching of the Golden Rule, gone with God.

Colin Kapernick’s kneeling during the playing of the National Anthem has turned into a movement that attacks anyone respecting our flag as being a racist not in support of black Americans. Mr. Drew Brees statement that he “would never agree with anyone disrespecting the flag of the United States“ is being twisted to be interpreted as he would never agree with the cause Kapernick advocates for. A false narrative if ever there was one.  Why cannot one respect our flag and support the cause associated with Kapernick simultaneously? There is no reason whatsoever from what I can discern. But our flag, once a great unifying symbol for our country, has fallen victim to a cause and is being ridiculed and marginalized.

And family?  Well, today’s family structure is not the same as the one once looked upon as a source of stability and safety.

So, we are left with a moral void, a divided country and shattered families.

Where does unity come from?

I really do not know.  Within the teachings of any of the great religions can be found the principles of trust, respect and love.  These guidelines for living life are so pure we should be able to unite under them.

The flag has always been a symbol our country has rallied around. In a sense, the flag was revered as a statement to others that although we might bicker and fight among ourselves, if you mess with one of us you are messing with all of us.  Today, the Stars & Strips has been reduced to a status more appropriately reserved for the Stars and Bars.

My wife and I have been married for 35 years.  We are an exception in this day and age. As an educator and coach I sometimes need a spreadsheet to keep track which parent, grandparent, sibling aunt / uncle, cousin or guardian has custodial rights and which adults are allowed or not allowed to pick up the student / athlete from school, practice or games on any given day.

There is a very real growing void in our country. I  do not like what is filling said void. Neither should you.