UNITED: Our salvation

We must be the diversified forest or choke on the sands of an isolated desert. We must be the blended tapestry of fabric, so much more durable and fray resistant, or we’ll shred in the first big blow.

When I served my country I could see clearly the why of what we were doing. Every culture, every religion, every background, was represented. We were the “why.” My brothers and sisters had my back through thick and thin. I was defending the principles and beliefs of everyone around me. I was not there for myself, believe me, I would have much preferred to be surfing or hiking at home with my family and friends.

When we did come home, we could all look at our families and assure them we learned something valuable. We were the best because we all stood indivisible, with freedom and justice for all. Once home, we are neighbors and friends first, and as we learned, stronger as a nation united. Don’t fall for the divide and conquer ploys of a snollygoster or bear false witness.

People in other lands want to be like us in every way. As long as they continue to yearn to come here to escape their own repressive governments, and instead enjoy the civil liberties we must safeguard, we can look at our loved ones and say it’s OK, we’ve still got it right.

I’m your neighbor, I’m your friend, but we can respectfully disagree in the land of the free.

TOM KEENAN

Coeur d’Alene