Good citizenship is vital for our nation in order for her to thrive and survive. Why? Because this nation is made up of a free people and we’re responsible for our republic, “if we can keep it”, as Ben Franklin warned.
Here are seven ways the average American can exercise the privilege and responsibility for his or her citizenship.
- Encourage your leaders. Has your governor recently signed a commendable bill into law? Has your senator taken an unpopular stand defending what’s right? Most people have a negative view of Congress, and pour their energies into berating their lawmakers for their mistakes. But an e-mail or quick phone call encouraging them when they do right is refreshing. It will build both their morale and their respect for the people they represent.
- Vote. This one is a given, but it’s tempting to ditch the responsibility we have at the ballot box and forget to vote, and forget to encourage others to vote.
- Read the news. Be at least aware of what’s happening in the nation and the world. If you aren’t aware, you won’t be able to properly and informatively vote or discuss the issues. Be sure to choose a good news platform, such as The Epoch Times, The Federalist, or WORLD. (Related: See my article on How to Read the News.)
- Pray for your leaders. Scripture instructs Christians that “prayers and intercessions . . . [should] be made for all men . . . and all who are in authority”. Let us pray that our leaders will have perseverance, execute justice swiftly, and be able to carry out the laws without fear of losing the confidence of the people. And we can pray for our leaders as they go about their daily decision-making.
- Teach your kids US history. It’s important to teach our children quality history (and learn it as well). We won’t know who we are as a people and as a nation if we don’t discover the history of the United States for ourselves.
- Know your rights. Quick question: Can you name the first amendment? According to one study, a good percentage of Americans can’t. It’s a good idea to refresh our memories from time to time by re-reading the Bill of Rights. If we expect to remain a free people, it’s imperative to know and recognize our freedoms.
- Be respectful. American have the tendency to habitually gripe about those in leadership positions. Yet we take for granted that we have the privilege of electing those same leaders—and if we choose, we ourselves can run for office. Yes, we might often disagree with those in authority. But we should always strive to remain respectful toward them, as well as speak of them with respect.
