Rig, I stand corrected! Is it a "hasty" generalization Bill D? I was actually quoting Cecil B. de Mille ( I think??) "The Ten Commandments". The actual thrust of my argument was in the first part. The philosophy/philosophies that contributed to the making of this nation were important. The elements, whether they be found in Protestantism, Catholicism or some other -ism are what was important. The enterprise of America was based upon personal integrity, honesty and fair dealing. Ultimately it was this same credo that lead to the abolishment of slavery. It also lead, alas, to Prohibition. The point is men of good will, yes, women of good will, recognize the greater good, the high moral enterprise of this nation. And when we have gone amiss, we recognize it. We didn't wallow in shame or proudly hold to a steady course, going the wrong way. I would like to think that even today we are correcting our errors and seeking a just path into America's future. Only time will tell. It is the apparatus of our Constitution and the Declaration of Independence which so enable us to change with less threat of violence than many other nations. My appeal is to folks of good will everywhere to strive honestly and with respect for the dignity and freedom of their fellow citizen. You don't have to adhere to some religion to be a good American. You only have to recognize what a good thing we have going here and do your best to help keep it afloat and on a course that benefits as many as possible without compromising the framework of our original documents.
|