Exceptional

Many, if not most Americans are willing to give much of our nation's sordid history a pass, at least every 4th of July.   Founded on the genocide of the native population, built on the backs of millions of slaves and finally as it became a world power, allowed a gilded age of robber barons and unspeakable poverty to exist side by side.  That's a lot to answer for, but as our history is sanitized and taught by our school system we are not encouraged to ask the questions that might tarnish our belief in American Exceptionalism.  To be sure, there is much to be proud of in our history, but the racism, nationalism, misogyny and various other isms which have plagued us get a rose colored eyewash amid the picnics, fireworks and other holiday activities.  My 9 year old granddaughter was moved to sing " America the Beautiful" at the sight of our country's flag hung on our back porch last evening.  It is good to celebrate the triumphs in our heritage, but also to note the stains on our honor.  To resolve to enact a more perfect union among our modern day melting pot of citizens is a worthy endeavor we can all get behind.  May the Flying Spaghetti Monster bless America.