Our society is a family so let’s work to fix it

In an article distributed by the Associated Press and published by the Marin IJ (“Independence Day in a land of confusion,” July 5), reporter Ted Anthony’s suggestion that “being an American citizen is like having a relationship” is particularly apt.

By thinking of our great society as a family, somewhat but not irretrievably dysfunctional, we might all be able to see each other as more alike than perhaps we’re comfortable admitting. This family is bound to each other with ties that are not easily severed.

So since we’re all in this together, why not think in terms of fixing what’s wrong with the relationship and having a real try at making it work? It won’t be easy, but it never is. Think of the Declaration of Independence as our wedding vow, made to and with each other in the bright optimism of the moment, that must be renewed from time to time, as the harsh realities of conflicting self-interest arise. The older generations must learn to adapt to the choices their offspring make. Think of this family as a living, growing and evolving concern.

Monuments to the mistaken heroes of a bygone era no longer merit our respect. The old ways of policing must change. The inequities of social justice and income equality must be erased. It will take genuine leadership and dedicated effort on the part of all of us to heal this family, if we can just learn to see ourselves as one.

“E Pluribus Unum” is engraved on our currency. It means, “Out of many, one.”

That was and can remain the vision, if we do not make ourselves blind to it.

— David Hirzel, San Rafael