In the grand pursuit of safeguarding our families, communities, and nations, the time has come for a moment of introspection. A reckoning with our actions and a conversation with the universe – are we treating the global community the way we wish to be treated?

Life often propels us into fervent tirades, self-convincing that our actions are for the world’s greater good. But what the world truly craves is goodness – individuals striving for positive impact, driven by genuine motives. Our history is marred by a trail of chaos, with bodies, destruction, and countless enmities left in its wake.

The mantra “kill them before they kill you” echoes through our actions, leaving little room for our adversaries to seek redemption or transform into potential allies. Yet, the reality is, we can’t eliminate them all. Eventually, isolation looms, and the fingers of vengeance point back at us.

Reflecting on the Gulf War era, when France resisted aligning with us, we ridiculed them mercilessly. Perhaps, they were attempting to halt our headlong rush into a destructive conflict. The lesson: our actions can lead to the obliteration of nations, like Iraq and Afghanistan, not to mention the sacrifice of countless American lives.

Iraq, once a natural buffer against Iran, saw its peace agreement dismantled under Trump. Rather than fostering diplomacy, we seem fixated on provoking conflict. Is incessantly poking at a bear the wisest course? Loyalty, peace, and war – our nation grapples with these complex issues. The institutions we founded, NATO and the United Nations, aimed at the greater good. What if our adversaries collaborated for a cause they believed in? We might find ourselves with only a handful of allies if things go awry. Striking a diplomatic balance is imperative.

Trump’s presidency witnessed the State Department floundering, with diplomats resigning and positions left vacant. If we desire friends, we must act as steadfast allies, not flip-flopping or revealing another face. It’s time for the people to step up – ask questions, get involved in politics, and participate in governance. The path to a better world requires collective effort. Dismissing politics as immoral only leaves the field open to those lacking morality. Let’s foster better solutions, redefine our perspectives, or face the certainty that things can only deteriorate.