There is an epidemic in the United States, a plague that has driven our society into a stupor. Apathy has become the norm in a country based off the ideals of free thought, speech and self government. It is hopelessness that has driven our people into a state of slumber. This lack of hope has been slowly cultivated in a system that demoralizes and degrades the general population. The ever present stresses of debt and money force us into lives we would otherwise not choose. Through college education and health care we are burdened by mountains of debt, and so forced to enslave ourselves in order to be free of it. Our lives are consumed by work, bills and endless stress and worry - so much so that we feel ensnared by it, helpless and desperate.
Yet there is hope, there is always hope. One only need look at other first world countries to see it. These places provide health care and education to the populace, their people have longer life spans, longer vacations, and a higher level of happiness. They are active within their societies, empowered to take to the streets and demand their leaders hear them. These are places where governments fear their people.
The American people need only open their eyes and their hearts, cast away their fears, and stand once more for their beliefs. In the days following September 11th, the American people came together as never before. We have seen it is possible to unite and what can happen when we do. Together we are strong, and we can change.
