A supreme display of courage and American spirit in the last few weeks has taken the edge off the constant bombardment of negativity in the media. American greatness is a citizenship issue. Let’s discuss it.
Artemis II Re-entry: A Nation Inspired
The Artemis II crew and their high-stakes re-entry captivated Americans, especially those new to following space flight. As the crew emerged from their Integrity spacecraft, there was a sense of American greatness in the air among the thousand people who “did their job” to make this happen. (1)
Risk-Takers by Choice: American Innovation
For a fleeting moment, one remembers that while all the negativity about America drones on, we are an innovative, creative, courageous people. We have among us some of the greatest risk-takers in the world. They are that way by choice, not government force.
The F-15 Rescue: Courage Under Pressure
The dramatic hostage rescue of an F-15 weapons systems officer from the mountains of Iran and bringing him to safety (2) showed the kind of American resolve that we display in a mission that involves life and high risk. Hundreds of people lent their expertise to make this operation a success as far as they were able. They and the two officers involved employed the creative solution needed to save their lives.
That’s what makes America great – not whining and wishing but believing and receiving reward by taking the long view and doing what needs to be done.
How Long-Term Thinking Wins
If our heroes did not focus on the long view and do what needs to be done, their chances of success would be greatly diminished. Be assured, there is a bigger picture. Countries and heroes alike always have one. Do you look for it?
True greatness isn’t applause-driven; it’s the quiet, sustained commitment to doing what must be done—by individuals and teams who choose risk, plan for the long view, and deliver results for the many rather than the few.
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship.🇺🇸
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