O Beautiful

America…

Founded by 18 century English colonial aristocrats who used 17 century British philosophers and classical figures and forms of government as their guide.

Whose signature foods (frankfurters and hamburgers) are named after German cities, even if they didn’t necessarily originate with German immigrants.

Whose educators educate (or attempt to educate) every child, regardless of position, ability or income.

Whose national anthem originated as a poem written under fire by a detainee during the War of 1812 and then set to the tune of a British drinking song.

Where most people welcome diversity of race, culture and religion.

One of whose most beautiful patriotic songs was written by a poet after seeing the vista from atop Pike’s Peak. She rode up on a mule.

Whose citizens sacrifice their sons’ and daughters’ blood and lives for the cause of freedom and justice around the world.

Whose troops, once the war is over, do not permanently occupy a land but return home to resume their lives

Whose people reach out and help rebuild countries they have defeated in war.

Whose political process most closely resembles a free-for-all but which results in progress for the common good

Whose society has social, cultural and political problems but works to solve them.

Whose people give generously to those in need, no matter who or where they are.

Whose citizens do not live in a utopia, an eden or even a city on a hill, but who are making progress toward that ideal

Whose national music was created by those brought to these shores out of their suffering, pain and hope.

Whose music is diverse, energetic and ever fresh

Whose music was taken in by a bunch of young British kids in the ‘60’s and brought back to these shores in the British Invasion, changing the face of popular music forever.

Whose military serves the people and the president and not the other way around.

Whose system of justice works to guarantee rights even to the dispossessed, the powerless and the unpopular.

Whose people enjoy unparalleled freedom of expression, association and mobility simply by virtue of living here.

Where people come from all over the world for opportunities that do not exist in other places.

Where the airplane, the light bulb, Velcro and Post-It notes were all invented.

Whose scientists and engineers sent men to the moon, not to claim it as territory, but in peace for all humankind.

A place where rags to riches stories do come true.

Whose writers have produced a literature that is profound and authentic, drawing on unique American experiences.

A place of deep faith, hard workers, incredible resources, incomparable natural beauty, and immeasurable blessings.

What a country!

Dan Verner is a Manassas resident.