Whenever I hear someone talk or pray about the need for America to "get back to her roots," or "return to how it used to be," or "return to the spirit of our Founding Fathers," I notice it's not usually an African American speaking. Not a Native American. Think about it.

What, exactly, do we want to return to? The America that that was built up on the backs and blood of slave labor? The America that just plain took away land and killed many who stood in the way of "Manifest Destiny?"

Or how about the America of the early 1800's where there are estimates of up to 50% of the population who would be classified as alcoholics? Or even more recent, the America of forcing 10 year olds to work in mines and textile mills?

Now, I get the sentiment of longing for more civility, courtesy, modesty, respect for your elders, and such, in our society today. But, that is far different than longing for something that was absolutely a disaster for certain people groups.

I do not want America to return to any era of our history. Why not pray for a better future? Why not long for our best days to be ahead of us as a nation?

Every generation-

whether nation, local community, or family-

has the opportunity to carry on what is most helpful in blessing people's lives, refusing to carry on what is harmful-

always looking forward to better days ahead.