America’s “Jihad” is certainly a struggle not only of Americans, but of all Humanity across the globe. At its root, we are experiencing the ultimate dilemma of our species. Are we in control of our own destiny or at the mercy of others – even a “higher power” – be that a Diety, government or tribe?

Throughout human history, there have been those who defer to some form of “God’s Will,” whether expressions such as “Insha-Allah” or “God willing…” commonly expressed by those who forego personal responsibility for their own actions – instead leaving their own lot in life to the influence or control of others. While this can be an expression of “Faith,” in whatever religion you choose, it can also prevent or diminish one’s exercise of personal responsibility for his or her own actions – or lack thereof.

To the extent that you exercise at least some level of introspection (self-reflection, self-awareness), taking at least some level of responsibility for what you think, say or do, you are likely to be a part of the solution to turning the tide on the fear, distrust, hate, tribalism and unprecedented division in which we find ourselves today.

To the extent that you look outside of yourself, more inclined to take a fatalistic approach to what is going on around you, accepting of some role more akin to being a victim of circumstance or, worse yet, blaming others for your lot in life, then you are likely a significant part of the problem.

You might even be obsessing over the extent to which, or in how many ways, you might be leading in the race towards being the ultimate victim. That is not healthy – yet that seems to be exactly where many in our world, especially our younger generations, find themselves today – in the unenviable position of being easily manipulated by those who will exploit that lack of self-awareness. This is evident in places like Gaza and Lebanon – as well as on our many college campuses as both students and their professors not only express their “compassion” for Palestinians and others, but an outright blame and hate directed at all Jews – whether Israeli’s or right here at home among our fellow Americans.

A good friend was recently taken aback when I mentioned that many Americans were frustrated with the divisive “woke” culture. That friend responded with their knowledge that “woke” was a term that originated among black or minority communities who were teaching their children to be aware that there has been a history of exploitation directed at them by whites or those at some level of superiority – whether actual or perceived. I asked if teaching their children to be “woke” might actually be expressed as a form of “situational awareness,” to which they said, “Yes.” So – why not define it as such and open up the topic to likely more meaningful and substantive conversations – for the sake of more constructively preparing them for adulthood – which will include successes and failures from which there are important life lessons to be learned?

And then there is the recent election where assertions of “facts” and “truth” were so far over the top, often without any modicum of proof. We have come to expect this, at least at some level, from competing candidates or their political tribe. But, in 2024, as the current President’s cognitive decline became increasingly obvious, recently confirmed to have been evident as he assumed office in 2021, the level of media complicity was exposed to be as bad, if not worse, than the political operatives themselves.

“The end justifies the means” seems to have become foundational to our national and local politics. This philosophy, once disdained as dishonest, appears to have become common practice – likely attributable to the extent to which “Trump Derangement Syndrome” has come to dominate mostly the Left/Progressive side’s effort to manipulate voters to their side – not because their candidates’ positions are better, but because the evil Hitler acolyte will bring an end to our democracy as we know it…

So, where do we go from here? How could the United States of America have put forward two major candidates that evoke so many misgivings, distrust, fear and loathing by much of the Electorate? Through unchecked manipulation, otherwise known as misinformation, disinformation, malinformation and “Psychological Operations” (aka: PSYOPS), many ideologues and unelected bureaucrats, most with their own self-serving motives ranging from “job security” to more ulterior aspirations, have put their own power and greed above the better interests of America – and Americans.

Whether on the “Right” or Left,” Americans have long been frustrated by the absence of integrity, transparency and accountability in governance – at all levels and on both sides of the aisle. The lack of accountability and diminished enforcement of our admittedly imperfect “Rule of Law” has only heightened Americans’ distrust, and an increasing disregard for both our Criminal and Civil Justice systems. Whether taught by parents or teachers, the notion that “choices have consequences” appears to have lost its deterrent effect on our younger generations.

Our education system is clearly broken. A country that once thrived on open debate, believed in and practiced liberalism (i.e. open and honest discourse), has devolved into extremes who feel compelled to vilify others, focus on our differences, and to create or exacerbate division – leading to the distrust, fear and hate that has set back civil and human rights over at least the past decade. Whatever happened to one of our most revered quotes of Martin Luther King, Jr, who once had this dream:

          “… I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character…” (1963)

Yes, what our country and culture needs most today is a much elevated sense of humility and introspection. This should lead to higher levels of mutual respect, mutual understanding, and collaborative problem-solving – without letting a preoccupation or obsession with racial or gender differences get in the way.

NOTE: This holiday reflection was inspired by my listening to hours of “An American Christmas,” hosted by composer and founder of the “Mannheim Steamroller,” Chip Davis. This was an excellent and informative blend of both religious and secular history that has shaped our world.