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Divided we cannot stand

Jessica Sink

The United States of America was founded as a nation where all voices and beliefs could be heard. As a "melting pot" of cultures and ideas, America's purpose was to be a place of respect for all people, regardless of political or religious persuasion.

However, the great nation of America and its people have seemingly lost this quality of respect. While frustration with the federal government is nothing new, the discontent of the American people has reached an all-time high. According to a CNN poll in mid-February 2010, 62 percent of Americans feel that most members of Congress do not deserve re-election, showing a common feeling of dissatisfaction. This dissatisfaction has led to a great divide in America. We have become so extremely splintered that quality debates and conversations have been replaced with divisive attacks and the degradation of the beliefs of others. Everyone is in attack mode, seeking to destroy any argument that conflicts with their own. There once was a time when people could work together, despite opposing views, toward "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," as stated in the Declaration of Independence. Now, there is only venom and hatred toward anyone standing in the way of an individual or group agenda. The majority of the American people on all sides are critical, unhappy, bitter, partisan and angry about the current conditions of the country.

Bias and prejudice are now common themes in all areas of social, political and religious philosophy, with the media being no exception. The media indeed may be biased, but so is every thinking human being. We all bring differing viewpoints to an argument based on experiences and influences. It is illogical to think that any news organization can perfectly present facts void of falsehoods or partiality. Perhaps it is time for everyone to put aside his or her own biases. Liberals should watch Fox News and conservatives should watch CNN. One cannot expect to find the truth unless many different views from many different sides are explored.

Respect has also been abandoned in the area of religion. America is a place of freedom of religion and all beliefs should be shown consideration. What is it to an atheist if I believe in God? And what right do I have to judge an atheist? I respect someone's right to believe whatever they choose, but they should return that consideration and respect my right to believe whatever I want to believe. Whatever your opinion on religion, there must be understanding and kindness offered to all people. It is a fundamental aspect of the foundation of America. I don't pick on you for what you don't believe, don't pick on me for what I do.

There are certainly extremists of all kinds in our midst, but that does not give anyone the right to judge or demean someone of a different religion, race or political stance. With so much controversy and disruption surrounding the issues of today, it is more important than ever that we stop attacking and start being open minded once again. The great leaders of America envisioned a place of freedom and equality for all people and this ideal must continue to be carried through, transcending time and challenge. We must cease the attacking or else we will surely fall. As Abraham Lincoln declared in his famous speech to Congress in 1858, "A house divided against itself cannot stand." We need unity. Now more than ever.