America - always the apparent contradiction. The essence of America’s strength is the tension between the varieties of views of what America is. What some may perceive as weakness is actually an affront to conformism, which might otherwise make a society obedient to perceived prevailing powers and to the status quo. Innovation as well as debate is thus encouraged. Creativity as well as productivity powers the society. Most essentially, tolerance must evolve to embrace all of these varied visions of America, and openness and a free society are the most treasured assets.
America’s global leadership is important as ever. Its involvement in wars, peace initiatives, innovation and art weaves into societies and states around the globe. America now faces some seemingly significant economic, political and internal challenges as well as criticisms. Some may see the country at unprecedented risk. America may do best though when on the edge, for itself and the globe.