Hot Take

HOT TAKE

How would you describe your family? For most of us, that is a bit of a complicated question. Every single family has some good aspects, and most, if not all, have dysfunctional aspects as well. Maybe our parents are great role models, but we have issues with an aunt, uncle, or sibling. It could be our parents who cause many of the family issues, but we have solid grandparents or cousins. No matter our situation, there is something to be proud of when it comes to our family. We tend to focus on the good whenever possible instead of focusing on the struggles of family life. This weekend, we celebrate 250 years of American independence. 250 years of this nation we all call home. But this nation has had many issues, such as slavery, religious persecution, specifically against Catholics, and involvement in unnecessary wars, to name just a few. Is this country really worth celebrating? Yes! Why? Because there is much good that has happened and continues to happen in our country. Just like a family, we should not allow the bad aspects to define us. Keeping this in mind, that does not mean ignoring the flaws. We need to pursue the good every day and fight against the things that bring our country, family, and Church down. But just because we want to continue to improve does not mean that we should not be proud or recognize the gift of being an American. This is a place where anyone can be successful. We have freedom of religion, the ability to vote, and the ability to voice our displeasure with anything because of our freedom of speech. We often lead the world in business innovation, space exploration, and charitable organizations. This weekend is a good time to reflect on all the good and all the blessings we have. Once we do this, we can begin to look forward again. How can we make this country an even better and holier place? We still have lots of work to do. May God bless you, and God bless America! -David