As our election process draws to a close, I feel compelled to share some thoughts. The polarity and divide between the right and left have grown far too wide. As a country, we need to move forward, not backward. Like many of you, I’m a grandchild or great-grandchild of the Greatest Generation. Some of my relatives survived concentration camps, while others marched alongside General Patton’s 3rd Army. They helped create the greatest country and economy in history. Many of us are direct descendants of the Baby Boomers or Generation X, who led the way in transformative movements, especially the civil rights movement, teaching us that we all bleed the same and share the same ideals.
The question now is: where does that leave us? This is history still unwritten. On January 20th, 2025, a new leader will take office. Some may disagree with the outcome, but that’s beside the point. The bigger question is, what are we doing to lead our generation forward?
“Change” is a powerful word, one spoken by many who have aspired to the highest office. Change transcends party lines and happens every day, every second, as we circle the sun on this incredible planet. But we often expect change instantly, without investment or effort. We live in the “now” generation, with so much at our fingertips, an inspiring era but one that demands patience and perseverance.
Times will always change, and people will continue to evolve with the best intentions. Our goal should be progress, not regression. A leader once described a “shining city upon a hill”—a proud city built on solid foundations, blessed and windswept, a place where people of all kinds live in harmony and peace; a city with bustling free ports, commerce, and creativity. We need to polish this vision, remembering where we came from. Today, we face division, but it’s time to bring the city back to its glory.
We must ask ourselves: is this what our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, indigenous peoples, and founding fathers wanted for us and for future generations? If you’re unhappy with the current state, take action. Be the change you want to see. Change starts at our dinner tables, in conversations with our neighbors, and by respecting differing opinions. Now is the time for our generation to take the torch and lead the future toward the light for ourselves and, more importantly, for those who will follow.
At our darkest hours, we’ve stood strong under the stars and stripes. It’s more than a call to action; it’s a call to unite. Together, we can make this the bright, shining city upon the hill once more. Find that selfless “why” for those you love and the selfish “why” for yourself. We’re in this for the long run—united we stand, divided we fall.
Thank you, and God bless.