The unending transformation of what “Americans” will become is a subtle dynamic. The heritage of an amalgam of our country as a historical underdog, and for the last 80 years, as a modern “big dog,” seriously challenges how we view the world and how it views us.

Our best tendencies promote “freedom and justice for all.” Our worst structurally marginalize and discriminate against far too many; especially as it relates to our original sins of slavery of Africans and the genocide of native peoples, as well as the bailiwick of associated issues.

But on a personal level, I have come to believe that the American people are reservedly kind, generous and caring. They will quietly help you in a time of need. Notwithstanding common beliefs, from fast-paced big city folks to the most remotely rural farmers, you will find much decency and concern for strangers in distress.

All of this gives me a powerful optimism that we Americans can continue to re-invent our country and ourselves in a more equitable manner. Inclusion is a key. If everyone has and feels a stake in society then Americans will exhibit a genuine concern for each other and clean up our mountainous historical issues. We must move that mountain, even one spoonful at a time. In that process, we will consciously remake what “American” comes to mean. Much of the world is rooting for us.