Hope for America

Today is Memorial Day, 2016.

A day to remember the soldiers who fought and died serving our nation. A day to honor soldiers who still fight and die for what they believe in.

In the world around us today, it can be hard to remember what those soldiers are even fighting for. America has fallen so far from what it was meant to be and people have lost faith in their nation.

People burn flags, raise their fists, and shout out against America while standing within its borders. I've heard people claiming they will move to another country if so and so is elected. At times it seems that Americans all hate their government and could care less about what happens to their nation.

So why do our soldiers fight? Is America still a nation worth dying for?

The soldiers fighting today seem to think so. What makes America worth the sacrifice then?

America is worth the fight because of what it is and what it has always been. I'm tempted to say that America is freedom. It is a country built of the rights of the people and the pursuit of a freedom like no other. Yet, with all the frustration and feelings of lost rights, I think I shall put the idea to the side and save that rant for another day.

Instead, I will say this: America is an opportunity. Throughout history one thing America has always remained is a place people run to for a new start. From the earliest settlers to those running from the oppression of the Nazis to refugees coming to America still today, people have always seen our nation as a place to go and make a life.

For those who have always lived here it is a place where they can become whatever they want to become if they push forward.

It's a nation that started as 13 colonies and became 50 states. It's a nation shaped and molded and grown by the ideas of the people. It's a nation of innovation that at one time helped lead the world in industry and science.

America is an opportunity, not only for individuals, but for a whole country of people. It is a nation that can become whatever it's people choose.

Our soldiers see this country as an opportunity worth dying for.

One way we can honor their sacrifice is by not giving up on what they fought for. America might seem to be spiraling into ruin, but it's not done yet. It can still come back. We can still rebuild it.

So take time today to remember our soldiers. Take time to say thank you for what they've done.

And most of all, don't give up hope for America.