Hubris

Hubris is defined as exaggerated self pride or self-confidence. When I look around me today I can't help but think that it is the one word that most throughly describes us. We are a nation of hubris. Don't misunderstand me. I still love this country and would not consider living anywhere else. We, for the time being at least, still enjoy several of the original rights described in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. We still have plenty to eat. But, we are not the same great nation we once were.

My love for this country now is much like the love you would have for a wayward adult son or daughter. One who had become a drunkard or dope addict. One who worked, but spent much more than they earned and who was constantly bulling or threatening those around them. One who engaged in all sorts of questionable acts, but who went to church on Sunday and then pointed their finger at others as being "sinners." Yes, you would still love them, but definitely not their acts.

Of course the question comes to mind, if this is true, what can we do about it. As individuals, not much. Unfortunately, we still have too many folks running around thinking and saying "we're number one." At one time, John Dillinger was public enemy number one, so being number one is not necessarily a good thing. I suppose we can recognize our own short comings as individuals. We can try to make ourselves better and serve as an example to others. And most of all we can pray for a restoration of the humility and compassion that once made this such a great nation.