Americans are the most divided we've ever been in my lifetime. After the upcoming presidential election, half the country will be pissed off to the point where violence seems inevitable. Neither side will see the winner as legitimate. They'll likely claim the election is rigged, threaten to leave the country, etc.
While it may be entertaining when we get to witness crazy people like this lady, I feel like the response will be worse than the Jan 6th "insurrection". (they might actually bring weapons this time or terrorize cities)
Naturally, there is a part of me that would love to see another video compilation of voters and TV pundits absolutely losing it on live TV as they slowly come to the realization that Trump will win, but their response this time will be unpredictable. A LOT of people have increasingly worse symptoms of TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome) and who knows what these benzo-popping lunatics will do if Trump wins.
With such a divided nation, what does it mean to be an American?
I asked ChatGPT this exact question and here is the response I got:
The concept of what it means to be an American is complex and has evolved over time, shaped by history, culture, values, and the diverse backgrounds of the people who make up the United States. Here are some key aspects often associated with being American:
Citizenship:Â Being an American typically starts with legal citizenship, which involves rights and responsibilities such as voting, paying taxes, and abiding by the laws of the land.
Diversity:Â America is often called a melting pot because of its rich diversity. Being American can mean embracing and celebrating this diversity of cultures, languages, religions, and traditions.
Freedom:Â Americans highly value individual freedoms and rights, such as freedom of speech, religion, press, and assembly. These freedoms are enshrined in the Constitution and are integral to the American identity.
Opportunity:Â The American Dream embodies the belief that anyone, regardless of background or circumstances, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and opportunity.
Shared Values:Â While Americans come from various backgrounds and hold diverse beliefs, there are common values that many associate with being American, including democracy, equality, justice, and the pursuit of happiness.
Patriotism:Â Many Americans feel a strong sense of pride and loyalty to their country, its history, symbols (like the flag and national anthem), and ideals.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship:Â Americans often value innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, leading to a culture that encourages risk-taking, problem-solving, and the pursuit of new ideas.
Community and Solidarity:Â Despite individualism, Americans also value community and solidarity, coming together in times of need and working towards common goals for the greater good.
Responsibility:Â Being American can also mean taking responsibility for one's actions, contributing positively to society, and working towards a better future for oneself and future generations.
It's important to note that these aspects are not universal for all Americans, as individuals may interpret and prioritize these values differently based on their backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences.
While this response sounds good on paper, how many of these bullet points do people actually agree with? Let's go through them:
Citizenship - This is the most basic answer to my question, but EVEN THIS is under attack! The country is being flooded by illegal immigrants with virtually no restrictions. In fact, some localities are providing free housing, food and healthcare to them! It's really unbelievable. Apparently, illegal immigrants are legally allowed to carry guns too!
Diversity - This is perhaps one trait or value that most Americans do agree with. However, this is another aspect that gets forced on people. "You better have X% of your company be women or people of color." " If there are any disparities vs the general population then that's proof of discrimination" The far left have taken a unique feature of America and managed to weaponize it to punish enemies.
Freedom - It's true, America still has a large degree of freedom vs other countries. But Americans don't want freedom. At least not the individual freedom libertarians envision. Most people want to impose their world view on every one else. They want censorship. They want you unarmed and unable to protect yourself and your family. They want to force you to bake a cake against your will. They want to penalize success with higher taxes. They want to ban homeschooling and indoctrinate your children with a Godless world view. They say they want freedom, but in reality they don't.
Opportunity - Many people don't believe this one. They are taught that the deck is stacked against them due to their skin color, gender etc. They'll say we're living through the residual effects of slavery, or that we're living in a patriarchal society. "Marginalized groups" don't have the same opportunities as a "straight white male". You've heard it all a millions times.
Shared Values - ChatGPT lists: "democracy, equality, justice, and the pursuit of happiness" as potential shared values. What's missing from this list? Religion! We used to have a common belief in God. Nothing was ever perfect, but it's no coincidence that our country is divided while rejecting God at the same time.
But that issue aside, most Americans will say that they have these shared values. The problem lies with the definitions of these terms. These terms have been co-opted and redefined. "Equality" is "equity". Even our own vice president claims that equal outcomes should be the result of public policy! Absolutely insane.
6. Patriotism - Not only are far fewer people patriotic, but it's seen as threatening if you are! Even simply displaying an American flag is threatening to some people!
7. Innovation and Entrepreneurship - This is still somewhat true, but of course federal and state governments certainly put up road blocks to innovation.
8. Community and Solidarity - Whatever resemblance of "community" America once had seems irreparably damaged. However, the smaller the community the more likely there can be a shared sense of belonging. But once someone sees a Biden or Trump sign on their lawn, 50% of their neighbors will hate them.
9. Responsibility - ChatGPT saved the best for last. This one is so far removed from reality, it's not even funny. Do I even need to say it? Everything is someone else's fault. Bad grades in school? Systemic racism. Didn't get hired? They hate women. Nobody seems to take personal responsibility anymore.
Let me recap my position. I still think America is preferable to reside in vs many other countries. But it can be so much better if we had actual freedom. Once you understand economics and realize the damage our federal government has caused, it's easy to envision what could be. It's worth trying to salvage or repair the division in our country if for nothing else than for our children. We should work towards, and pray for, peace.
However, we must also keep in mind that Jesus said, "My Kingdom is not of this world." Being an "American" (however you would define that) is nothing compared to being a Christian.
I'll be honest with you - back in the day, I would occasionally get teary-eyed listening to Lee Greenwood's "Proud to be an American", or maybe one of those Toby Keith songs after 9/11. 😂 (Don't come at me, lol)
But now I get teary-eyed thinking about singing and praising our Lord along side billions of other people and angels. Can you imagine that?! It will be glorious. So let's not lose sight of the real prize. But in the meantime, perhaps we can find common ground with our neighbors and redefine what America is supposed to be about.