SHAME OF IT ALL |
In the recent past it is undeniable our country is changing. There would be divided opinions whether for good or bad. I take no side. I arrived in 1969 and to-date I have a good life. Looking back and in hindsight a few things I could have done better. But that is what it is.
So why post this? In past two years I am hearing conversations (not debate) about current state of affairs in this country. This is new and eye opening, provocative and forcing a pause. I would like to share the following.
I friend of mine, successful business entrepreneur from Europe and a US citizen for past 35 years. ‘What is happening to us? This is not the country I have been living in for decades accolading my choice of moving here. My destiny and progress have always been in my hands. It all seems to be taken away, I feel my freedom is slipping away. I do not know the reason. The assimilation has given away to confrontation. I almost feel sorry being here.’
Another friend of mine, a retired healthcare executive with upper class life style in Arizona. Contemplating and dissolving his assets and have applied for GOLD PASSPORT to Portugal. ‘I was never in Mr. Rogers Neighborhood but I enjoyed getting an ice cream cone at corner shop. I was able to say hello to strangers, attended events and the church. I supported social causes, donated services and funds. All of this is gone. I feel I am questioned as to who I am, what my politics are and who I should or should not affiliate with. This freedom and character is being lost. This who we should never be – shame.’
This sums up the narrative. We are losing the core principles and values while changing who we are. Yes we have issues – Immigration, Crime, Economy and we need to solve them but by not changing who we are. We are Americans.