In the topsy-turvy world of political ideology, it sometimes seems we’re living in an era where drama queens reign supreme. There are some out there who never miss a chance to wallow in their theatrical expressiveness, complaining about the very land that grants them a stage upon which to perform. One might chuckle at the irony, if it weren’t so tragic. These characters manage to find time amidst their ‘struggles’ to hit the airwaves, lamenting their first-world predicaments with as much sincerity as a soap opera star.
It is curious how these perennial complainers manage to bemoan their lot in the lap of luxury. They disparage the country that has afforded them all the opportunities under the sun. The United States is a place where someone like Hong Cao, the son of Vietnamese refugees, can rise to be the Secretary of the Navy. It only makes one question how much of their so-called “issues” are rooted in reality. Is it really as bad as they claim, or are they merely afflicted by sour grapes, much like not being invited to the cool kids’ party?
There is a certain flavor of drama that seems to be the hallmark of these naysayers. When they’re not pretending to quake at tweets or bawling over historical sites, they’re wallowing in the self-pity of solitude. One can’t help but raise an eyebrow at the tearful tales that sound more like a melodramatic novel than the lived experiences of seasoned adults. If the exaggerated theater of emotions they display is any indication, it seems they’ve swapped patriotism for personal dramatics.
The crux of modern discontent appears to be a focus on self that overshadows any national pride. They’ve spent a decade being indulged in “me, me, me” narratives. It’s as if taking a moment to step outside their own identity boxes and appreciate a collective identity is as alien as a day without a selfie. These individuals would rather embrace their grievance culture than revel in the shared spirit of American greatness, especially when it gets too hot under the collar to sustain their combative posture.
In the end, one would think it’s not too much to ask for a bit of gratitude on a day meant for celebrating the good old US of A. Choosing to be happy for a single day shouldn’t be as hard as calculus. With summer temperatures turning up the heat, perhaps it’s time to let down their theatrical guard and join the rest of us in a moment of genuine cheer. After all, a grateful heart and a glass half-full outlook do make for a far more pleasant 4th of July celebration.
