Since the early days of the republic, Americans have recognized Thomas Jefferson’s distinctive role in helping to shape the American national character. As Founder and statesman, Jefferson thought broadly about the virtues Americans would need to cultivate in order to preserve and perfect their experiment in republican self-government.
He and the Founders of our country understood the importance of good citizenship, and they understood what made someone a good citizen. To be a good citizen is to embody certain virtues, such as self-reliance, responsibility, honesty, charity, loyalty, and respect for the law.
These virtues are the strength of our nation and are necessary for our experiment in self-government. As President Bush has said, “When this spirit of citizenship is missing, no government program can replace it. When this spirit is present, no wrong can stand against it.”
Modern times have tested these virtues — and the traditional notion of citizenship — but they are still there to be called upon every day. They enable us to meet tragic events in extraordinary times, and in ordinary times to take back responsibility for ourselves and for the problems in our communities: drugs, crime, a faltering education system, family breakdown, and a corrosive popular culture.
But tough circumstances provide opportunities to rise to the occasion. And that’s where I think we Americans shine. As John F. Kennedy said, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” And somehow, despite political differences and difficult times, we always do. Oh, we may stray outside the lines in the pursuit, but our inherent desire to do what’s right always manages to keep us on course and moving forward.
It’s another reason I’m proud of America and our system, flaws and all, and why I’m optimistic about the future we’re building for our children and grandchildren. There are tough decisions to be made but I think, in the end, we’ll again proudly meet the challenge.
Don’t forget to check out the other Patriotic Journeyers… JimK, Scott, Larry, Drumwaster, and Cosmicbabe.