Looking for America

If our Looking for America  trip were only about sightseeing, this section would more accurately be described as "Looking at America" and these blogs would just be inventories of site seeing activities we completed.  But this trip was about more than that.  

Every generation of Americans must make their way in the America of their time. This was true for the Americans who lived during the Great Depression and World Wars I and II.  It was also true for those who lived in the boom times of the 1920's and 1950's.  

The  America of our time, America 2021, is a deeply ideologically divided place. The ruling elite of our society, our top political leaders, top educators, top media figures, top entertainers, even many of our largest corporations, have decided that America's past sins are it's defining characteristic.  They sit in the seats of power and have the biggest megaphone.  Theirs' is the storyline that dominates our culture in our time. But is it the only story?

Diane and I grew up small town, blue collar, middle class.  We think that in the truck stops, campgrounds, National Parks, and highways of America are the same "fly over" people of modest station in life that our elites make fun of but are the true heart of our country.  They acknowledge America's past sins. However, they feel strongly that our country's many redemptive, unselfish, and noble actions in support of its own citizens and the people of other countries represent its true character.  They, like Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, believe America's willingness to judge people "by the content of their character not the color of their skin" is the soul of its greatness.  They are joined in that sentiment by the masses of immigrants who come here annually not because they think America is flawed, but because they think America is great.  We think America is great too.  That's the story we want to tell. 

Visit this blog often if you want to see examples of what makes America wonderful - the greatest country on earth in which to live.   We've shared with you the people, sights, tastes, and grandeur of what we experience.  Three months, 10,000 miles is an epic journey.  Join us on this adventure!