What Was Lost?

During our year here we've been knee deep in our nation's history. I had the opportunity today to visit the Capitol. I saw statuary hall, the rotunda, and the old Supreme Court room. I couldn't help but think about the heritage upon which this country was built. It was everywhere around me: faith in God, peaceful debate and transfers of power, representation in government, embracing diversity as a strength. Then I witnessed a House of Representatives debate between Rep. Eric Cantor (R. VA) and Rep. Steny Hoyer (D. MD) about the budget. It was a demonstration of constitutional principles to be sure, but its subject matter reflected the sad fact that much of our nation's heritage has been lost. Why are we in the situation we are in? This blog is not the place for the answer to that question. However, I couldn't help thinking about the world I'm growing up in and the world my children are growing up in. I wonder if I am teaching my children the kind of hard work, sacrifice, and integrity that my parents showed me and which has been my family's legacy. I also wonder if I am able to teach them to be patriotic and to understand the inspired legacy of this country. I think our year here has convinced me that regardless of what schools teach or fail to teach, I need to ensure that my children know that this country began and continues under the hand of God and to patriotically preserve this country's heritage.