E pluribus unum
was the unofficial motto of the United States of America since its founding,
and even before its founding. It was approved to be included on the Great Seal
of the United States by Congress in 1782. Ever since it has appeared on many US
coins. The Latin phrase e pluribus unum translates to: “out of many, one.” It
is intended to put forth the ideal that even though we are many different kinds
of people, we are one people. We are Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians, and independents,
but we are one people: e pluribus unum. We are White, Black, Native American,
Asian, Hispanic, and many more, but we are one: e pluribus unum. We are
Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, agnostic, and all the
rest. But we are one: e pluribus unum.
This is of
course the ideal. In the modern world we are factioned and fractured. Sometimes
it is hard to imagine that we could ever come together and agree on anything. Sadly,
my country is not alone in this. Many countries are experiencing similar fracturing,
similar chaos. I have to believe it is mostly fueled by social media where one
can espouse any view one wants and find evidence or make up evidence to support
his view. Thus, Qanon, flat-earthers, holocaust deniers, and other cults can
manufacture enough propaganda and distribute it well enough to build an
audience and it is not easily counteracted. There have always been those who
want to drive wedges between people, who want to keep us divided; in the age of
social media, they have an easier time of it.
But the
founding fathers were onto something. E pluribus unum. Out of many, one. They
knew we were stronger, smarter, and more indefatigable when we are together. Accept
our differences, but come together anyway. Recognize the forces of division for
what they are: agents of chaos. It is much easier to tear down than it is to
build up. Stand up for the common good. We are one people. E pluribus unum.
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