It's been 247 years since Jefferson launched his big democratic experiment. The experiment continues, and it's being tested unlike at any other point in my lifetime. Who knows how much longer American democracy will endure.
What I do know is that, except for those Americans who have been radicalized and/or prefer strongman leadership to a representative democracy, we have much more in common with each other than differences. Most of us want the same things for ourselves and our families.
While not appearing in the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson once offered this insightful commentary: "The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as they are injurious to others. But it does me no injury for my neighbor to say that there are twenty gods or no god. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg.”
Jefferson also once noted: "I believe that every human mind feels pleasure in doing good to another."
A healthy democracy isn't all about "me" and my rights. It benefits from tolerance, kindness and respect for others and their rights.
Happy 4th.
What I do know is that, except for those Americans who have been radicalized and/or prefer strongman leadership to a representative democracy, we have much more in common with each other than differences. Most of us want the same things for ourselves and our families.
While not appearing in the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson once offered this insightful commentary: "The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as they are injurious to others. But it does me no injury for my neighbor to say that there are twenty gods or no god. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg.”
Jefferson also once noted: "I believe that every human mind feels pleasure in doing good to another."
A healthy democracy isn't all about "me" and my rights. It benefits from tolerance, kindness and respect for others and their rights.
Happy 4th.