Several weeks ago, America came together to honor our fallen military heroes on Memorial Day — a time to remember those who gave their lives in defense of our freedoms. Before that, on May 1, some reflected on what was once known as Decoration Day, a tradition dating back as early as 1865. On that day, Americans would gather to place flowers, share stories and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It was, and still is, a heartfelt expression of national gratitude.
Shortly after Memorial Day, we also commemorate the valor shown on the shores of France during D-Day — June 6, 1944. That historic day marked a united stand by Allied nations against the tyranny and hatred that once threatened the world. The enemy was defeated, but the shadow of hatred still lingers in many corners of society.
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As we look ahead to the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, let us embrace this milestone not with division, but rather with determination to come together as one people. Our differences — our cultures, beliefs and backgrounds — are not weaknesses; they are the foundation of our strength as a nation.
We must remember that the United States is a constitutional republic that believes in and upholds the ideals of democracy. There is a distinction: While democracy allows for the voice of the people, it is our republic — anchored in law and the balance of powers — that ensures liberty, justice and equal rights for all. This structure was carefully chosen by our founders to protect freedom not just from tyranny, but from the fleeting passions of the moment.
The balance of our constitutional government must exist in a way that respects the Constitution and the rights of all United States citizens, whether born on American soil or having earned their citizenship through lawful means. The world has changed since our founding. Tyranny in other countries has distorted and perverted the rights of their citizens. Today, there exists both a written and unwritten manifesto aimed at harming the stability of the United States. The effort to dismantle our norms and destabilize the status quo is expansive and relentless.
We must remain clear-eyed about who we are and protective of the institutions that preserve our freedom. It is our diversity, bound by shared values of freedom, democratic ideals, and the right to speak and live freely that makes this country extraordinary.
There is no room for hatred in a nation built on liberty and sacrifice. Though the word “hatred” has existed for over a thousand years, we must believe in our power to reduce its use, diminish its influence and reject the forces that try to divide us.
Let’s commit today — and every day — to both deliberate and random acts of kindness. Let’s lead with compassion, service and respect. That mindset, that simple shift in how we treat one another, has the power to change our communities — and our world.
If we remain idle, we risk losing the legacy built by generations before us. The lives our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents lived and fought for must not be forgotten. Their courage deserves to be honored not just in memory but in action.
Let us be the generation that rises to the challenge, that chooses unity over division, and kindness over hate. Our future — and the future of our children and grandchildren — depends on it.
