Weekly Wisdom | DOING OUR PART
Two weeks ago, this blog presented strong evidence highlighting the sad state of society and the current social crisis many Americans are experiencing. The following week, recommendations were made to the Trump administration to implement good policies in infrastructure, healthcare, and the environment that benefit the broader population. This week, the focus is on us patriotic Americans working to better ourselves and our communities. Since a well-functioning society is a collection of many well-functioning individuals, it is important that we maximize our charitable giving, participate in our communities, and educate those who most need it.
How to be empowered and patriotic:
During the past 20 years, reading for pleasure has declined by 40% among Americans. Our Founding Fathers understood that our republic would endure if we were an educated and moral people. Books still remain the best way to learn about a topic, whether it is American history or battery technology. An empowered and knowledgeable citizenry is one that is hard to control. So read on!
There are many America250 events going on across the country as I write. This Sunday, Rededicate250 is taking place on the National Mall, where thousands of Christians will join political and religious leaders to rededicate the country to God. There are many state and local events taking place as well, whether they are being sponsored by your local library or college or a regional corporation. Rediscover your patriotism and learn more about what makes this country great by participating in some events!
Martin Luther King Jr. once said “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” With a struggling middle class and millions of lonely people in America, the need for both goods and services is only increasing. Service to others is among the greatest things any of us can do to establish trust and break down barriers in our communities.
Visiting, participating, and donating to our public institutions such as libraries, colleges, and museums strengthens these important organizations that uplift the communities in which they are located (and often beyond).
Consider social media “fasts” or breaks where you read or spend time with your family or friends. Study after study shows that people are happiest when they are present with their loved ones and friends. And considering America is facing a mental health crisis, we could all use a little more time spent with those who are important to us.
Although President Trump has done a great job in his second term, there are things he cannot change. The overall physical and mental health of a population is partially the result of millions of Americans deciding to do the right things like attending church or gaining skills in an industry. While we all strive for a greater America, we should always never forget to look inward first to see what areas we can improve so that we are better people and better neighbors to our fellow citizens.
