It’s A Different America Today

Rick Hamada
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Wednesday - April 15, 2009
President Obama greets Saudi King Abdullah at the G-20

I grew up reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in school and saying, proudly, “... under God ...” Not anymore. The mere mention of God in our public schools can result in disciplinary action or even expulsion.

I grew up respecting men and women in uniform who serve our country. I would eagerly stand in line at parades to see our military march in unison amid unanimous cheers of appreciation and support. Not so much today. Outside of military-specific events, when was the last time our nation truly provided an unbridled celebration of our Armed Forces?

I grew up listening to the radio when music with a racy lyric was bleeped. Today, I am embarrassed for the performers of the profane, misogynist and hyper-violent “music” that is part of the everyday play list while grade-school kids sing along.


I grew up in a home where children did not talk back to their parents. I see children today who disrespect their parents and elders with an attitude that is so filled with disdain. There are children who swindle, sue and forcibly take from their mothers and fathers, treating them like disposable marks. In extreme cases, there are some youngsters who will mentally or physically abuse or, heaven forbid, take the lives of their own parents.

I grew up in a time when teenage pregnancy was prevented at all costs. If a teenage girl did become pregnant, families would unite and make their decisions behind closed doors. Today, we have day-care centers in high schools.

I grew up in a time when hot dogs, hamburgers and apple pie with ice cream were traditional menu items enjoyed by millions of Americans. Today, the consumption of these staples constitute catcalls for extra taxes and predictions that you will die if you dare have an Extra Value Meal.


And I grew up in a time when we looked to the president of the United States to advocate the citizens of this nation. I never thought I would see the day our president would bow before a Saudi king, describe Americans as “arrogant” while apologizing to Europe and taking trillions of dollars from future generations to fund a socialistic agenda. My, how times have changed.

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