America – a Golden Age for the Human Spirit
By Mairéid Sullivan
Irish born American/Australian singer and poet

The Golden Age of the American spirit began as a unique experiment for humanity: the first truly multi-cultural country, populated by people of every nation and tribe. America represents the first society in human history founded upon diverse cultures living together as one people -- Americans.

Americans share a tremendous pride in their ancestry, celebrating each side of the family tree equally, going back before their ancestors first settled this wide majestic land.

America’s achievement is founded on a cultural rejuvenation unprecedented in human history; a renaissance, facilitated by communication technology, inspired by the idea of unity in diversity -- the cross-pollination of diverse cultural heritage.

Thomas Jefferson, who was known as a "Man of the People," wrote in the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal." Jefferson also believed in a "wise and frugal Government, which shall restrain men from injuring one another," while encouraging it’s citizens to freely manage their own affairs.

The Bill of Rights is the legal foundation for our liberties, but the Declaration of Independence is, I think, more reflective of the philosophy of the founders of this country.

American multi-cultural society has not had an easy transition. Generations of Americans, indigenous and immigrant, continue to overcome profound tragedies while coming to terms with their differences.

The achievement of peaceful co-habitation within American society is based on the awareness that all people are kindred in spirit. For Americans of every faith, their experience of infinite divine life goes hand-in-hand with their sense of duty to nurture the freedom the human spirit requires to experience irrepressible love and joy. Americans are capable of helping to maintain the greatest Golden Age of peace the world has ever known, for themselves and for the whole world.

Benjamin Franklin said, "Man will ultimately be governed by God or tyrants." It takes great courage to embrace freedom, to make our own choices, to be leaders of our own lives rather than followers.

The time has come for us to renew our commitment to the spirit of freedom and joy, as we celebrate what has already been achieved for the good of all life, -- on earth, as it is in heaven.


First published in Hugh Downs' "My America" 2002
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