Many of us consider the United States as a fairly advanced country with a stable legislative system. The truth however falls very far from that accepted belief. A legislature with a 244 year history is still very young in the grand scheme of things and still developing. The nation would thus benefit and increase in stability and strength with the recognition of this fact by our senators, congressmen and women. It is the duty of the legislative branch of government to use opportunities and events that are provided along the way to better chart and document a path to greater strength and stable growth. Our Constitution and systems of government would grow with us. In the midst of change we need to learn to enjoy the waves and ripples as our time as we develop and grow.
The passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg gave us an opportunity to make some gains in our national growth. Whilst such opportunities can be considered God sent and must overall be considered in a positive light, they are in many ways tests to determine how good the system that we have chosen for our country is. As a perpetual learner I have had my fair share of examinations and tests and must admit I will not complain if I am given the opportunity to live in a world without them.
Tests, unfortunately are always going to be with us. As a nation though the choices we make in such tests has long term impact. Efforts to push through a Supreme Court nomination without considering the overall national impact for narrow cultural war objectives only benefits a small minority.
In the past decade America has been waging a narrow culturally war over women’s reproductive rights and gay rights. As this war goes on many are losing jobs and homes, dying in pandemics, and are subjected to racial bias and killed by law enforcement on our streets. Unfortunately, for many that war is still the most important.
Trends in Support for LGBTQ Rights in the US
I must admit I am just as guilty as anyone in seeking to have my own way on issues. One very wise friend of mine told me that all my efforts is like “pissing into the ocean”. Unfortunately, after much thought and consideration I have seen what he sees. Standing in the way of a wave does not stop it. Nor can one by his or her efforts push it along.
Today after a debate that spoke volumes on the type of leadership that we chose for ourselves 4 years ago. I would like to leave some advice for all Americans.
Cultures would always evolve on their own; efforts to push or hold down cultural norms in any society only leads to chaos and anarchy.
Cultural shifts are like the waves that breaks onto the shore. One can only sit back and enjoy them. None of us can push or even attempt to block its progress. The only reward one receives in such an effort is a lot of turbulence and we lose the beauty of the moment. Let us all learn how to enjoy the waves and ripples of our time in a rapidly changing world.
A word to the wise is enough.
By Dr. Leonard Sowah an internal medicine physician in Baltimore, Maryland
