Now let us look at one of hardest situations to perceive as being balanced: tragedy. Let's say someone you know and love dearly dies suddenly in a car accident. I am very sorry to imagine this scenario but we have to be aware that driving is one of most dangerous pastimes in contemporary society. First of all there is grief and suffering that comes with loss of this intimate connection in physical world. However, experience can also be looked at in a positive light for many reasons. We learn so much about life and ourselves from tragedy. We learn about how much we truly loved that person when we look back in retrospect at all good times you had together. We become stronger individuals after period of suffering passes so that if another crisis presents itself on our path we might just be only one who can act in that intense moment. We also learn one of most important rules in our reality here in Universe, that everything (including ourselves) is temporary.

The Universe will always exist, but all within it is in constant flux. This is another paradox of balance that rings true: temporary existence within permanent existence. If you look at anything long enough you will see that there are always multiple ways of perceiving it. However, once you've judged or assessed that item or concept, you will find that opposite belief or perspective can also be seen as true. Most probably someone will point it out to you whether you like it or not.

Let's take this article itself as example. I might see it as something very relevant and important. I might believe that it is a good representation of my views on reality and be happy that I have been given opportunity to share them with whichever of my fellow beings wishes to read my ideas. However, someone else may perceive this article as a total waist of time, a blast of hot air from some nobody who believes that they know something. The funny thing is that that person may also be voice of my own shadow-side that lives within. That is what I mean about balance: it is everywhere.

I ask you. Where are Pat Tillmans today? Many no longer exist, having laid down their lives for their fellowman. At a time when America could benefit greatly from stories of men like Tillman, America is having to endure force-fed-slop of journalists who are looking to make a name for themselves, even if it means trashing men like Tillman. Shame on them. They, by their self-promotion, are driving this nation to despair. Because of men like Tillman I feel good about America, my faith, and my service to this country. It is men like Tillman that make me want to reflect on goodness instead of evil, character instead of wrongdoing, blessings instead of denunciations. I pledge to honor Tillman’s sacrifice and thank God for his selfless devotion to my country on every occasion. So help me, God.

This is tale of only two lives. But I could have included yours. I'm sure you're probably not a world-class athlete or a war hero, but nonetheless, you are virtuous. Why do I say this?The fact that you support your community and trust God, while others harbor disdain and contempt about America, tells something about you. The fact that you can read a paper like this and be moved by it speaks volumes about your pride and character. You, everyday person that prays and works for good of others, you are one who carries this nation. If country were left to naysayers only, it would become yesterday’s news overnight.

In each of these stories, I named an individual who turned his back on good life to serve his fellowman and who ultimately gave supreme sacrifice---his life. Please be advised, virtue won't be found in every person because it’s a rare gem and costs more than some are willing to pay; however, for those who do possess it and share its value willingly, I think America would do well to learn from these beautify people and esteem their heroism above all else. What is needed in America, more than greater material possessions, more than “right” politicians, more than harangue of Hollywood’s elite, is more Adults modeling virtuous lives before little ones. If we lose this generation to self-interest, we will lose, period. I think America is at a crossroads in history. She can move forward and change world by current world events, or she can move into isolation and despair, hoping world goes away. The later choice is weak and unrealistic. The times are not going to get easier, according to Bible; therefore, we need to batten down hatches and sow seeds of true character and virtue, to harvest New World that’s soon coming. Remember, character still counts. I ask you, can America count on you?

Terry Dashner.

FFC…PO Box 1586 Broken Arrow, OK 74013…918-451-0270…Terry Dashner…