In this time of divisive politics, where the "us vs. them" attitude of our politicians seems to get in the way of progress, where defeating "their" proposal and "winning" is more important than the issues themselves, and approaching the anniversary of 9/11 where we should be unified, it might do some good to revisit this old set of words.
The American's Creed was written by Tyler Page of Maryland during World War I as part of nationwide contest to best summarize basic American beliefs. Page won the prize, and used his $1,000 prize money to buy Liberty Bonds and give them to his church.
Surely this Creed is so basic, so true to American beliefs, that Americans on both sides of the aisle, both sides of the debate, can agree on this. I'd love to see Congress get together and recite it together on the steps of the capital.
Here it is:
I believe in the United States of America, as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.
I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies.
-Card-Carrying American
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