American Values – This is Who We are

The elites on the left are quick to throw around the term “American Values” without ever saying what they mean. My several requests of my representatives who have used this term, have yielded a form letter telling me they get a lot of inquiries, but no answer to my question. I’m going to take another crack at this by outlining what I believe are our American Values and see if I can get them to respond. I welcome your take as well.

American Value 1 – God gives us our life and rights, not men. Our Founders knew this when they codified it in both the Declaration of Independence and our Constitution. We believe that God is the ultimate “president” and our allegiance is ultimately to him. It means we are to follow the commandments which in turn, makes us good human beings and citizens.

American Value 2 – Everyone has the right to think and say whatever they want. This includes yelling “Fire”, just not when it’s inappropriate. Sticks and stones may break bones, but words never hurt in our society. Those offended by words need to think about real hurt of the atrocities of war that assure this value remains.

American Value 3 – The individual is paramount. No group or body is more important than the individual and therefore, his freedom is the basis of all governance. Every government action must be put up against the impact on the individual. It is each of ours’ duty as individuals, that we take responsibility for our well-being and actions. You have the right to try, and succeed or fail without assistance or assured outcome.

American Value 4 – Every human being is equal and thus, every American has the same potential. How they use it goes to value #3. No individual is to be put ahead or behind another in terms of governance. Any actions, (and there have been many), that subvert this value, only serve to undermine the very tenets of our Constitution and country fabric.

American Value 3 – Representative democracy requires elected officials account for EVERYONE within their purview. Most often, this requires governance compromise as competing positions exist within most districts. Indeed, our system of checks and balances was designed to force compromise and thus, encourage EVERYONE to feel ownership and engagement. The minority must always be represented and acknowledged.

American Value 5 – We have compassion for those who cannot help themselves. We are the most charitable country in history and where a need is, we are there. That need must be predicated on a hand up and not a hand out, again, back to value 3.

American Value 6 – We believe in the use of written laws to govern. The adherence to law is fundamental to our safety and economic well-being. Laws must be clear, reasonable and only instituted with the consent of the people. They must then be uniformly and fairly applied in all cases. Laws that are found to not be in the best interest of the people must be amended or eliminated.