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Happy 4th of July
The United States of America is looking good at 241 years of age.
Still youthful and vibrant, yet equally wise and challenged, the American experiment continues to work and thrive in a world of great uncertainty and overwhelming odds against it. There are moments of tremendous divisions that give the impression of weakness and disorder. Although, those that proclaim this notion are ignoring history and basic reality.
As the past 241 years have demonstrated, its the similarities and differences (small and large) between Americans have actually contributed to the strength and durability of the United States of America as the greatest country in the history of the world. We are free to debate, free to express our speech and free to change the course of an issue or, yes, even a nation or the world, through individual expression. Whether in the form of dissent or a rallying call, the opportunity for a better tomorrow is always present for the taking, if we so choose. Fierce debate and strong willed disagreements at the individual, local, state and national level don’t broadcast weakness or reason to sulk and panic, but instead presents the chance for someone (or a group) to see something differently and take action to bridge the seemingly unbridgable gap for a positive vision of unity.
The harder the task, the more impactful the reward.
On the 4th of July, we celebrate all the amazing characteristics that define the United States of America. These celebrations, universal and deeply personal, are special and warrant grand spectacles in the form of spectacular fireworks, wonderful parades, delicious bbq’s and entertaining movies with friends and family.
Above all, we remember that some of this nation’s most critically important historical moments have occurred in the face of intense adversity and daunting uncertainty that, once the smoke clears, continues to reveal a country that will sustain and thrive in ways we couldn’t have ever imagined.
This was one of those moments.
“…and the home of the brave?”
The concluding charge in “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key (there’s a family connection to Mr. Key) that, when answered, refreshes the promise of the American experiment for generations to come. And today is a perfect occasion for us to answer that call, in our own unique fashion, for the country we love.
Happy Independence Day.
Happy President’s Day
The precedent was set long ago to honor our nation’s presidents in February.
Imagining life back in the late 1700s when the country that became known as the United States of America was at its inception can be an overwhelming exercise. Overwhelming, yes, but even more so an amazing reflection to partake. The first president, George Washington, took office back in 1789. How far this nation has come is extraordinary. And throughout history, the American people have elected a few great presidents, many good presidents and some not-so-great presidents.
It’s the opinion of Jimmy’s Daily Planet that Americans experience one truly great president about once every one century. Thus far, this list (in chronological order) consists of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan. Remember, this list is for Americans presidents that were “next-level” leaders, gentlemen and visionaries.
Speaking of someone who is “next-level” smart when it comes to American presidents…
We should all have the enthusiasm for knowledge as the young Macey Hensley.
Have a Fantastic President’s Day.
Time for a Cookie
President Donald Trump.
That is a real sentence, ladies and gentlemen.
January 20, 2017 will go down in history as the day when Donald Trump (yes, that Donald Trump) was officially sworn in as the 45th President of the United States of America. This really happened. Major policy decisions at the federal level will be significantly influenced by President Trump, the businessman and reality TV populist who became the leader of the free world. What will the next four years look like?
Who knows?
Many Americans (and leaders abroad) are a bit nervous of how President Trump will act and make decisions on the world’s stage. Fair enough. Populism, thus far, has not earned the megaphone anywhere nearly as powerful and influential as the American presidency in its burgeoning movement around the world. So, this will be an interesting domestic and global experiment, to say the least.
Accordingly, people are slightly on edge about President Trump due to his controversial rhetoric on the campaign trail. Specifically, this concerns his comments that fall into the category of race relations. Rightly or wrongly, the following classic scene from a popular sitcom catapulted its way to the front of my mind today as the peaceful transition of power took place with protestors in the background.
Who should we turn to in this hour of anxious anticipation? Washington? Lincoln? Reagan?
Seinfeld?
Ladies and gentlemen, Donald Trump is officially the President of the United States of America. Bringing up a scene from Seinfeld during this admittedly bizarre moment in American history is absolutely fair game…and, quite frankly, appropriate.
The American people hired Mr. Trump to be the president. And in four years, President Trump will experience life on the other side of the boardroom table.
Until then, all I can say is find a bakery with Jerry’s favorite cookie.
Jimmy's Daily Planet 