The Good, The Bad And The Ugly

As Americans we have much for which we can be proud. The inate beauty of our Constitution, the enactment of the Marshall Act following World War II and the assorted freedoms we posess come to mind. In turn, there have been aspects for which we should be deeply ashamed. Our historical treatment of people of color, interring Japaneese Americans during World War II and the way we reacted to returning Viet Nam War Veterans are a few which I can think of. Once again I watched the movie "Philadelphia" today and was reminded of another time in which we showed our ignorance and prejudice. Fortunately, there were people who took the high road and showed a decency and compassion for which we are to be proud. They didn't buckle under the nation's bigotry and our Government's inaction, instead taking to arms and providing the care and understanding so desperately needed. These are the people who elevated us collectively. These are the people who should make us proud.