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Finding Hope in the Heart of America
I’ve been lucky to spend most of my adult life traveling and just watching people. I’ve always been fascinated by how we see ourselves and the way we connect to the places we call home. I love everything about culture — the music, the food, the stories. There’s so much to celebrate in the human experience, both here and all over the world.
In my travels, I’ve come across all kinds of perspectives about different countries — their traditions, their strengths, and yes, their flaws. But there’s something about America that gets such a strong reaction from people. Sometimes it’s pride, sometimes criticism, but more and more, it feels like outright disdain. What’s happened?
It honestly surprises me how many Americans seem to have such a deep frustration — almost hatred — for their own country. And I’m not talking about the kind of criticism that comes from love and wanting to make things better. That kind of critique is so important for any society to grow. What I mean is this deep cynicism that feels like it’s left no room for hope or gratitude.
This isn’t about ignoring America’s flaws — they’re real, and they’re serious. Systemic racism, economic inequality, political polarization, environmental neglect… the list is long, and we have to face it. Being honest about those issues is part of growing up as a nation. But at what point…
