In a world of chaos and uncertainty, we often walk the streets of the world with a jaded point of view. There was a time that this was not so. Television did not have ten news channels spilling out “opinionated views” on the happenings of the day. People smiled at each other as they passed on the street and road rage was a rare occasion. Those of us who grew up in a simpler time, often shake our heads in disbelief, as another kind gesture is misconstrued as self-serving or intrusive. The younger generations are not to blame for this change. It’s a change that steadily crept up upon us and has lead us to a nation unfamiliar to those in the real America.
The “Real America,” the America that truly exists, might shock you. Take away the newscasters, the politicians, the money mongers of our nation and you have an America that looks vaguely familiar. It’s an America that bands together when times get tough for a military branch not being paid by the government. It’s people who stopped long enough to realize that in that moment they had it better than someone else, and needed to do something to help. The real America joins together businesses, churches, neighbors and organizations to come to the aide of  800,000 people suddenly out of work for no reason other than being a part of this great nation.
The “Real America” exists in small towns across our nation, where neighbors help neighbors. They help rake leaves or shovel snow, or check on each other when times are hard. There are neighbors who say hello before driving into their garage, and neighbors who, without being asked, take in garbage cans and loose newspapers.
The “Real America” lives in the hearts and minds of our first responders, who despite their own safety, rescue and comfort more people on a given day than an superhero ever could. They are the first to hold a hand, to give a kind word, to shelter others from harms way. They are found in every town and city in this great nation, looking out for those of us in need.
The  “Real America” blooms from the voices of teachers mentoring  our youth. Their smiles, gentle touch and nurturing ways instill strength in our children as they grow. They foster a sense of pride in our country through their teachings, and encourage hope through their guidance. They teach stewardship, volunteerism, friendship and most  importantly, generosity.
Every day in our world of chaos and uncertainty, acts of humanity and kindness exist for those wanting to witness the “Real America.” One must be openminded to see what is right before our eyes. Block out the negativity that surrounds you, reach out and be a part of something far greater than what is depicted on the news. There IS good in our world, good in our communities, and good in our lives; we must be willing to embrace it and nourish it. For, the “Real America” has not died, but anxiously awaits its rightful place on the news, in the government, and in the world. We are hopeful that day begins today.
