In God we trust – an important motto for America today
Thanksgiving Day is one of my favorite holidays — a time when the nation comes together as one big family to thank God for the many blessings he has bestowed on us, individually and as a nation. Despite everything we have seen and experienced this year, we have a lot to be thankful for as Americans.
I believe that we are on the Mayflower and not the Titanic.
As one of those proud American believers in the Bible and gun ownership, and a “recovering” politician, I believe and pray that continued blessings will shine on our country even if we do not deserve it, as we are the best hope for mankind.
The problem lies in whom to trust. “So help me God” and “In God We Trust” had meaning when I was in Congress. However, for a while Democrats removed “So help me God” from the oath in our swearing-in proceedings. At times I believe that if some of today’s politicians were around during the time of Noah’s ark, they would probably blame climate change for the flood.
We need good leaders, as they are charged with making the key decisions that could determine our success or failure. It does not take a right or left turn to hurt the passengers on a ship, a vessel adrift can be equally damning especially if there is an iceberg in your path.
Leaders need advisers. But, advisers told President George W. Bush that there were weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Their error resulted in a 19-year war and enough money spent to cover nearly all America’s major infrastructure repairs and have money left over to lower the national debt.
Scientists are great — but they are not perfect. They have switched their position on wearing masks, months after the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Now, according to experts, wearing a mask not only helps you from spreading the virus, it will help you from getting the virus. A little late?
Remember, the experts said the Titanic was unsinkable.
I have always believed that following God is the best course. Following scientists or advisers, as important as they may be, does not match turning to the Almighty for guidance.
We should try our best to follow the Golden Rule and let love not hate dominate you, choose peace not anger. Be givers not just takers. Let telling the truth — not lies or half-truths — be your doctrine regardless of how painful or embarrassing and eliminate being disingenuous.
God can not lead the USA unless the USA is willing to follow.
Good people must help good people regardless of what “team” they are on.
We will all know whether America is on the Mayflower going toward the ‘New World’ or if America is on the Titanic heading toward an iceberg.
For those, like me, who feel America is on the Mayflower, you know that it is time to celebrate Thanksgiving Day 2020 with joy. If you feel America is on the Titanic, embrace Thanksgiving Day as well, it can make a difference.
Gary A. Franks served as the U.S. representative for Connecticut’s 5th District from 1991 to 1997. He was the first Black Republican elected to the House in nearly 60 years and is New England’s first Black member of the House. He is host of the podcast “We Speak Frankly.” Follow him @GaryFranks.