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Posted on 12/21/2001 5:26:20 PM PST by Rightfield14

With the hanging of tinsel, it is often customary that we reflect on the passing year and the one to come. Despite the state of war that currently exists and the hardships faced by our country in the past year, I remain largely optimistic for the future of the United States of America.

The reasons for my optimism are as numerous as the opportunities that reside in this last, great beacon of liberty. I am confident because of the abiding greatness of the American spirit. We are a nation of survivors. Americans remain unyielding in the face of hardship, generous in the midst of adversity, and resilient in tragedy. In shops and factories, we work long hours of overtime to manufacture the products that will increase our leisure time. We drive fast and are often too quick to forgive.

Americans have not only learned to survive; they thrive in adversity. Nothing can shackle us but the bonds we willingly place on ourselves. We made our way through the dustbowl and the Great Depression. We are still standing after the shots rang out at Dallas. We emerged victorious from the smoke and ashes of Pearl Harbor and the Twin Towers. Deep down, Americans believe that life was meant to be a hard, difficult struggle that gives us worlds to conquer and challenges to overcome. We are at our best when things all around us are at their worst.

There is a special goodness inherent in our nature. It is America that comes to the aid of nations in trouble. Our planes drop food to innocents in Afghanistan while our bombs lay waste to roaming packs of greedy wolves. I am upbeat because of our nation’s rich heritage. Throughout our history, America has been the home of the rugged individualist. This land is the place of pioneers and explorers. It is a haven for dreamers. We are people who tame the frontiers and reach for the stars. We climb the mountains and search the murky depths of the sea.

Americans boldly venture into space and dare to cross the distant horizons. The impossible is merely the unattempted and the unknown is seldom beyond our reach. I am inspired because the quality of our leadership. President Bush (right) has shown us that in times of crisis, character is much more important than charisma. And we have learned that greatness is often shrouded behind a facade of simplicity. I am encouraged because of the competency of our Armed Forces. Our young Americans in uniform are the best trained and most adequately equipped warriors the world has ever known.

From Trenton to Tora Bora--the same love of liberty flows in the veins of those who enlist. The true heroes of this hour are these modern-day Minutemen. Summoned by their Commander-in-Chief, these brave men and women have once again selflessly answered their nation’s call. I remain hopeful because my faith is anchored in an almighty Creator who is never surprised by the actions of his creation. Our God is never out of touch. He is always in control. Moreover, it is He who we celebrate this time of year. He has blessed our country beyond measure and smiled upon each one of us who lives here and calls America home.

Lastly, I am optimistic because life is a precious gift. History teaches us that terror and evil are doomed to failure. Our country will emerge victorious from this battle as it has from those in the past. Our economy will rebound -- not through governmental legislation -- but on the strong backs of a dedicated American workforce. Peace and prosperity will be ours once again.

Sixty years after America was viciously attacked, our nation was tested again. On September 11th, Old Glory passed its latest exam with flying colors.

© 2001 Robert Yoho

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