Growing up as a teenager in the 1960s presented numerous challenges. It was a time marked by significant social unrest, including encounters with hippies, the Vietnam War, war protesters, the emergence of free sex, drugs, and rock and roll culture. Despite these turbulent times, there was a prevailing sense of right and wrong, supported by Godly principles and values which were foundational to our nation. However, in our progressive society, we see an evolution of standards, leading to changes in the classification of good and evil, where previously accepted notions have been redefined.
I served in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years, two tours in the jungles of Vietnam (1967-69), with 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines. Things were much different then. Of course, life was hard when we came home to protest, we had no parade, being called baby killers and mama rapers, and even spat on at times. We were just looking for basic human support and help in our readjusting to civilian life after this really brutal war. This led many brave men to believe that what we came back to was worse than what we left. At least our enemy was defined.
I remember the Bible was regarded as the word of God, with its teachings and principles considered as divine revelation to humanity, addressing a broad range of questions and needs in life. If adhered to, it would bless your life and bless our nation. Today, the Bible is seen as obsolete and a hindrance to people reaching their full potential. Accepting, endorsing, legalizing and placing greater emphasis on individual choices and decision-making.
Everything in America was not hunky-dory, but for the most part, citizens experienced contentment, maintained productivity, and achieved a degree of prosperity. Of course, our two political parties had differences in ideology without the uncontrollable hatred that we see today. We were able to discuss politics and religion with our neighbors without fears it would come to blows.
It was a time in America when concepts such as political correctness, cancel culture and wokeness were not widely discussed or considered; instead, the primary focus was on treating others with respect and striving to do what was right.
Our flag was respected and patriotism were symbols we as Americans held in our hearts and minds representing the love of our country. Today we see the diminishing respect for our flag and our Judeo-Christians heritage passed down from one generation to another that define who we are as a nation.
In America, Marxism, Socialism and Communism have often been viewed critically resulting in Government control and the destruction of individual freedoms, while Capitalism has been regarded as a path to economic growth. Now, Capitalism is condemned and Marxism, Socialism and Communism are becoming the choice.
America’s Judeo-Christian principles and values are a guiding light in how we lived and shaped who we are. Today, each person is living by what seems right in their own eyes. We have replaced God’s truth with the pleasures of one’s mind as the commandments for our actions.
Sadly, the America I remember appears to be changing significantly, now resembling a distant memory. Considerable progress has been made and sacrifices endured. Moving forward, some believe restoring faith-based values could play a vital role in our nation’s future.
God reminds us in 2 Chronicles 7:14 that saving a nation from destruction is on our shoulders not His. “We the People” have to do something for God to heal our land. We need to make the one true God, the God of America, again. God Bless America!
Jim Coonrod is a Marine Corps veteran and an avid gardener. He lives in Collinsville.
Source: Freepik.com