What Makes A Nation Great ?

Are There Any Today?

It seems so often in the United States people disagree on issues because our assumptions are different, and even the language we employ in our arguments has no commonly accepted meaning. Debating whether or not this country or any other was ever great, is great now, or is on the right path to greatness depends on how one perceives wherein greatness lies. Here is one person’s criteria of measurement:

Every child from birth has an equal chance at success regardless of its family’s net worth, race, religious affiliation, or ethnicity.

Protecting the environment for the benefit of future generation is a priority.

It only uses its fair share of the world’s natural resources.

The government serves and protects its poor, elders, and those with mental, emotional, and physical disabilities equally as well as it does the rich and powerful.

There is no systemic racism, sexism, agism, or homophobia.

Might makes right is not a foreign policy guideline.

Economic sanctions are not imposed on countries whose ill effects including inadequate medical care and food supplies are born primarily by civilians, especially children.

Affordable health care is an entitlement for all, and not something many go without because of its cost.

Each individual’s sexual preference is respected.

Success in the legal system is determined by the merits of the case, and not dependent on having the financial resources to hire the best legal representation.

Corporate and special interest donations are not main reasons behind legislative and executive decisions.

Endangered animal species are valued and protected.

Child day care is readily available, of high quality, and affordable.

Care workers who serve elders and people with disabilities in their homes and in nursing facilities are paid commensurate with the valuable service they provide.

Home ownership is a realistic goal no matter where you choose to live in the nation.

Refugees from war torn countries are welcomed, and immigration is seen as necessary and positive.

People are concerned for the well being of all their neighbors.

This is a very high bar for a nation to live up to, but we are talking about greatness after all. So rather than be defensive or accusatory about what the problems are, it is important to view it as a continuous work in progress. Greatness is not like a mountain once climbed, you can then rest and be content. No, it is a goal worthy of striving for, and the effort alone carries the seeds of greatness within it.