For many of us who
remember the 1950s and ‘60s, our memories of those times are reflected in and
rekindled by the music of that period.
Much of that music had a common theme.
People sang of a new day coming.
Lyrics told of a future in which all people would be united in a
peaceful recognition and acceptance of the fact that we are each different and
unique. Popular songs encouraged love and tolerance and conjured up pictures of
a time when peaceful coexistence would be the order of the day and all mankind
would join in the common cause of freedom and justice for all; a time when
mankind could be relied upon to assist those who needed assistance and value
the best efforts of each and every individual who did their best, even when
their very best fell short. Over the decades since the ‘50s and ‘60s, many have
dedicated themselves to achieving the romanticized goals of our youth, the
goals of liberty and justice, as contained in America’s historical documents,
and the pursuit of goodness, grace and mercy in the eyes of God. Despite the
polarization which plagues our nation today, much has been achieved. We stand
today at a crossroads, on the firm foundation those dedicated efforts produced.
We live now in that new day foretold in our youth by dreamers, songwriters and
poets. Some would take us back to a dark, divided past, where ignorance and
mistrust were the order of the day, and intolerance and bigotry were
celebrated. For the rest of us, we see about us the realization of the dreams
and ideals of our youth, the remarkable advances made by a nation inspired by dreamers,
united by song, and faithfully dedicated to liberty and justice for all. For
us, despite the many challenges we face, we celebrate achievements and boldly
strive ahead. SC
