Nothing at all, my friends!
In fact, it is that which has actually made us stronger, as a nation. The multifaceted gifts, interests, strengths, traditions and, yes, differences, have actually contributed in a very beneficial way to the fabric of who we are, and how we function — socially, culturally, educationally, economically, and even politically.
Since I seemed to have a little time on my hands — in between time-traveling, that is — I thought I'd seek out a few of the local festivals in the Boston area. Because of the delicious variety of food offerings, the wonderfully entertaining performances, and the fascinating conversation, I must confess that I only managed to make it to two this weekend.
One was the Dozynki Polish Harvest Festival on Dorchester Avenue in Boston, hosted by Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish. The other was the St. Sava Orthodox Church's Annual Serbian Festival in Cambridge. Both were excellent examples of ethnic traditions brought alive for all to see, taste, and experience. (And if you know Ben Franklin, you know I love to taste!)
If we all could simply learn to appreciate and respect each other's unique differences, instead of fearing them or using them as a reason to hate or discriminate against others, we would be much better off. And, incidentally, we would be a lot truer to our ideals as a country.
Just remember the inscription on the Statue of Liberty, my friends: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
Your humble servant,
B.Franklin