Civic Duty In American Politics

Many countries in the world have a political system in which officials are elected, and for most of these countries’ citizens, their civic duty stops at voting. Yet, many Americans go above and beyond for a cause that is important to them, setting us apart from other nations. Millions of Americans express their concern and passion by actions as small as writing a letter to their Congressman or as big as running for office themselves. This continuing determination, this idea that we can always improve upon yesterday’s shortcomings, is a key aspect of progression. This country is also full of citizens who see a need a fill it, no matter what it requires of them. Volunteerism can be seen in Sunday school teachers, Little League coaches, firemen,
and even American servicemen and servicewomen. We have a “next man up” mentality in America, and we have no shortage of people willing to sacrifice for the good of others without hesitation. This in turn ensures that every citizen has the opportunity to be impacted by another, which creates bonds among us, a common ground from which to grow lifetimes of respect and understanding. This is the case for communities across the country, and those communities seem to always find a way to prosper, no matter the circumstance. The millions of Americans who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to volunteerism also usually express the quality of sharing their values, values that build this country. This can be seen in the coach who will settle for nothing less than his players’ best, the teacher who sacrifices her own time to tutor students before or after school hours, and the pastor who teaches his congregation to respect all people, regardless of where they live or worship. When these values are emphasized to our children, they grow up to do the same with theirs, impacting future generations of Americans who will also express these values in everything they do for as long as they live.