Isn’t it interesting that the United States has been involved in every major conflict?
From the Revolutionary War, when we threw the tea into the harbor, to every war and battle since, the United States has consistently been on the right side of history.
We have fought to defend freedom, justice, and liberty. However, there is one battle we seem to have lost, even after winning countless wars. I’m talking about the war against racism.
Let’s take a moment to reflect.
While we fought and won on the field during the Civil War and freed hundreds of thousands of slaves, we also lost something significant – the war against the word “racism” itself, which has only increased division.
Despite the freedom won through the abolition of slavery, deep-rooted prejudice and discrimination continue to plague our nation.
It’s a hard truth to swallow: we won the battle, but we lost the war.
It just so happened that three meaningful events all fell on the same day – June 14: President Trump’s birthday, Flag Day, and the 250th anniversary of our U.S. Army.
I am reminded of both our nation’s accomplishments and its disappointments. This reflection comes on the heels of the 250th anniversary of our U.S. Army.
On this special day, a parade filled with young men proudly marching in their military uniforms reminded us of the discipline and strength that define our armed forces.
The uniforms they wore were not just fabric – they were symbols of service, sacrifice, and a proud history that has spanned generations.
As the parade moved down the street in D.C., our nation’s capital, the elegant emcee provided rich descriptions of each uniform, tying them back to the historical moments they represented.
From the early days of our military to modern times, the emcee spoke about the importance of these uniforms and the brave men and women who wore them – each piece of clothing telling a story of courage and dedication.
Their faces, full of youth and promise, bore the weight of responsibility and the pride of serving a nation that stands for freedom. It was a powerful moment – a true celebration of the strength and unity of our nation.
Yet, despite this celebration of courage and sacrifice, in other parts of the country – cities like Los Angeles and Chicago – there’s a level of disrespect that cannot be ignored.
On a day meant to honor our country and its history, I couldn’t help but feel disappointed. Why? Because in the midst of these celebrations, some people continue to spew hate and division.
During the parade, President Trump’s leadership sought to halt the divisions within our nation, hoping for unity.
He stood alongside Melania, showing the world that hope and strength still live in this country. Yet even in moments like these, we continue to see individuals using their freedom of speech to spread hate.
Freedom of speech is a powerful right, but it comes with responsibility.
We live in the greatest nation on earth – a place that provides its citizens with everything: opportunity, resources, and freedom.
Yet there are those who, rather than honoring the land that feeds and nurtures them, choose to sow discord. They disregard the very foundation of this country.
What has become of the respect for the land of opportunity?
Some people’s words and actions display a lack of gratitude for the richness this nation offers – its land, its people, and its endless possibilities. We are blessed to live in a nation of abundance, yet some seem intent on dividing us by race, gender, and ideology.
It’s as though a snake has slithered its way into the hearts of some, feeding on the venom of division.
The narrative that frames America as “the bad white man” sees race as power – power that is then twisted into racism and used as a weapon to seize control. While these individuals speak of race as a tool of power, they forget the true meaning of freedom.
They advocate for fluidity in gender identity, believing that gender can be defined by emotion rather than biology. While people are born male or female, they argue that gender is something that can change based on personal feelings.
The irony is undeniable.
In the land of the free – where ideas and innovation are meant to thrive – we’ve allowed hate and confusion to take root. It is our responsibility to rise above, to honor those who have served, and to protect the values that truly make America great.
In the midst of challenges and divisions, there is always hope. As Howell Shaw wisely said, “With God, there are no coincidences.”
This reminds us that everything happens for a reason, and that faith, unity, and perseverance will guide us through. Let us hold onto these truths as we continue to strive for a better, more united nation.
