We have unintentionally fostered a generation that struggles to see the good in their own country. That was never the goal. We set out to reflect, to reckon with our past, to awaken to injustices that had long gone unaddressed. We wanted to educate, to acknowledge our nation's imperfections so that we could build something better. But somewhere in that process, we lost sight of the full story.
In our effort to illuminate our nation's failures, we forgot to celebrate its triumphs. In our urgency to expose wrongdoing, we neglected the extraordinary good. We became so focused on the moments where America fell short that we forgot about the times we rose above. We failed to remind ourselves that America is not a static idea, frozen in its worst moments. It is a nation constantly evolving, always striving—sometimes painfully, sometimes imperfectly—toward a more perfect union.
And in doing so, we forgot to teach one of the most important truths: that being born in America is like winning the lottery. Not because this country is flawless, but because it is free. Because it is built on the promise—not the guarantee, but the promise—that we, the people, have the power to shape it.
The Work of Love
Loving America doesn’t mean ignoring its flaws. It doesn’t mean blind patriotism or pretending that our history is spotless. True love is not passive; it is active. It is the work of caring enough to make something better, to contribute, to fight for progress while still taking pride in what is good.
And there is so much good.
It’s found in the courage of those who fought, bled, and died for the freedoms we enjoy. It’s found in the innovators, the dreamers, the everyday people who wake up and work hard to build something meaningful. It’s found in the small acts of kindness between neighbors, in the moments when Americans—despite our differences—come together in times of crisis to lift each other up.
This country has never been perfect, but no nation is. What sets America apart is its relentless pursuit of something better. We are a nation that corrects itself, that fights for justice, that gives people the freedom to speak, to create, to challenge, and to change.
Rebuilding Unity Through Purpose
Part of healing our divides is learning to love our country again—not by ignoring our problems, but by working together to fix them. That doesn’t mean we’ll agree on everything. But as I’ve learned, working side by side on something good has the power to create shared understanding, to bridge divides, and to heal old wounds.
We don’t have to see eye to eye on every issue to recognize that America is worth investing in. We don’t have to share the same politics to roll up our sleeves and contribute. But if we are to move forward—if we are to reclaim the spirit that has carried us through our darkest days—we must rediscover what binds us together.
America is not beyond saving. It never was. We just have to decide that it’s worth loving again.
And then, we have to do the work.
If this resonated with you, don’t let it stop here. Share this episode, start a conversation, and most importantly—find a way to contribute. This country isn’t fixed by talking about its problems. It’s changed by the people who step up and do the work.
Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the next episode. And if you have thoughts, I’d love to hear them. Reach out, join the conversation, and let’s be part of something bigger than ourselves.
Until next time—stay principled, stay engaged, and let’s put in the effort that America deserves.
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