Be Fearless in Your Citizenship

The promise of America has always been the possibility of a better future, where its citizens enjoy the freedom of following their own religious beliefs, the fairness of a representational government, and the opportunity to build a happy and prosperous life. Have you forgotten?

It’s hard to hold on to that promise when the events unfolding around us include a focus on the teachings of one specific religion as the country’s “one true religion”, the configuration of voting districts in multiple states that favor one political party over another, and the widening of economic disparity that makes it more difficult for those who don’t have wealth to acquire and retain it.

Many of us are under constant attack by those who want to make us very afraid. Afraid of our government. Afraid of our institutions. Afraid of immigrants. Afraid of our fellow citizens. And why do some say we should be afraid? Because those things are the reason our life has not met its full potential. Those things are the reason we are not happy. Those things are the reason our life has not turned out the way we thought it should. But is that correct?

Fear is a powerful motivating force. Most people want to treat others with dignity and respect, but are often convinced not to by fear. Those who seek to improve their own circumstances or bolster their own views will often use fear, uncertainty, and doubt against you. They strive to make you angry, fearful, and distrusting to distract you from what you really believe is best for you and those around you. Let’s look at an example.

In 2022, there was a well-publicized movement of thousands of people from Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela through Mexico toward the southern border of the United States. Often called "caravans", some in the United States said it was an "invasion" and used the influx of migrants to help justify a national emergency declaration. In fact, the government of Mexico broke up the caravan before it got to the United States border, and measures were taken by multiple countries to address the issue. The United States, Canada, and Mexico committed to taking more guest laborers and providing legal pathways for people to come for work, while other countries agreed to greater protections for migrants. In short, what was sold to us as an emergency was actually handled in stride by the institutions designed to address the issue.

Here's another example. Local news often reports on incidents involving police or fire responses, which are often tragedies such as personal attacks or destruction of property. While repeatedly hearing about these incidents may give some a thrill without being exposed to the actual risk, many others become convinced they live in a more dangerous world. In fact, these incidents are the most often reported because the information is easily attainable through the police and fire departments. While we may hear of attacks or destruction every day and some do live in areas where these things are more prevalent, the majority of American citizens doing their daily tasks will never experience these things.

Most of us want to live in a society that does not look like a military state, where we can realistically improve our situation by working toward our life goals. Having a positive attitude about life leads to positive outcomes. Do not be distracted by those who tell you our country is a terrible place. They are not looking out for your best interests. They are attempting to boost their own situation by making you angry, fearful, and distrusting. Approach such people with skepticism. Ask yourself what you will gain by listening to and accepting what you are being told.

Your time is the most valuable thing you own. You can spend your time being fearful of the world, or you can spend it improving your life and the lives of those around you.