Friday, November 14, 2008

Immigration: The Decisions of a Continent

There are two sides to every situation, and this one is no different. Millions of undocumented workers are living in America right now, and millions more will join them. For most, there are only two sides to choose. There are those who would oppose this type of immigration, and then those who see it as an enrichment of our country as it stands now.

I’m simply going to try to state the two main sides to this issue. To be honest, there seems to be more questions than answers, and to look at any political issue, including this one, and give it in instant opinion would be unwise. So here we go……

First there are those who would oppose this immigration on all fronts. And honestly, they have at least a few legitimate arguments for their case. One of the main reason’s American’s oppose undocumented workers entering their country is due to the terrorism factor that could result from a border that is unsecured and unstable. From the account of a lot of expert’s, the southern border of the US would be fairly easy to penetrate. Another reason among the many that are offered is the drain on America’s recourses by those who pay little taxes, if any at all. The education systems, healthcare systems, even government benefits are all used by those who contribute nothing to it, and pulled from people who work hard everyday.

Then there are those American’s who would say that the benefits brought to the United States by undocumented workers are invaluable are couldn’t be found by looking at themselves alone. One of largest arguments this group would bring to the table is the argument of what America stands for in the first place. Freedom, liberty, and the chance for a new beginning has been the inspiration of the United States for its entire existence. Unlike countries such and England, Russia, or China, the United States entire existence is owed to the formation of many cultures coming together to form a new land. Italians have been around since the beginning of history. But America has been here for a mere 232 years. Without the cultures and blood of many other countries, it wouldn’t even be on the map. So why now, with the debt of its entire existence owed to those of other nations in its history, would discrimination and exclusion be a part of its national fabric? For some, it doesn’t make sense. Undocumented workers from places like Mexico, Cuba, and Guatemala all bring a flavor and benefit that can’t be found by looking inward. It makes America more beautiful, and more wonderful, and more unified.

Like I said before, it’s hard to put a clear stamp of “this is right” on this issue. Maybe the answer is a blend. Maybe it is one or the other. What do you think?

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

The best place on earth

I have lived here in Cincinnati for two semesters now, and there is a notion I have noticed about most of the people who live here. Everyone around has a firm belief that the United States is the best place in the entire world to live, work, and play. It is a conviction that is readily accepted without argument. But if you think about, I believe truth would say differently. I think truth would show you that the best place for anyone......is another place entirely. Let me propose to you a land filled with warmth and sunshine, a place that has bright smiles and friendly faces, and a country with a deep culture of heritage and beauty. I'm talking about a place some might mistake for paradise.

Its name is Mexico.

If you’re moving your mouse toward the exit button now because you think I couldn't possibly be right, just hold on. Take a good look at Mexico's beauty. It won't be hard :). Most people look at the coastline, and rightfully so. Some of the world's most beautiful beaches are found there. I'll talk about that in a minute. But first, you should look at it's mountains. The Rocky Mountains don't stop at the border you know. The chain runs all the way through the country, and gives those who view it one of the most spectacular views in the world. Its magnitude and strength are formidable, and to live there is to a part of earth's greatest beauty. It will match anything United States has to offer in Mountain Living.

If we left it there, there would be no superiority for either nation in beauty. But to move just a little farther down will take a person to the paradise I mentioned earlier. The beaches of Mexico can simply not be argued with. American's spend millions of dollars every year to visit them; tens of millions of dollars more than they spend on their own beaches. Why? Because there is nothing like it anywhere. So is the mountains are equal to what Colorado has to offer, and cannot beaches cannot be rivaled, is the answer to which country is more beautiful not obvious?

While there are so many reasons I could offer you to show why Mexico might be better, I only have time for one more. And really, it is a pretty good one. The most wonderful, beautiful, and warm thing that could ever be a reflection of this country, is it's people. A love for family, a humble spirit, and an overall appreciation for the gift of life are values that have been stamped on the lives of the Mexican people for centuries. They are values that they hold dear, even in a ever-growing global culture of shifting principles and relative morals.

Many reading this might like to point out that they know many people who lead good, decent, and honorable lives. And these people live right here in America! But could it be that most of these same people are those who have accepted the tenets of the Christian life, and are trying to walk close to God? Because if that is true, then you would only be looking at a small segment of your country.

The values I spoke of in relation to my people are values that are held by the masses, not just a select group of Christian adherents. They are engrained into the fabric of out culture and lifestyle. There are exceptions. Sin prevails in several areas. But like I said, to taking a majority of the population would still give you strong representation for a lifestyle of beauty.

Many might look at this article as try to point out inconsistencies in Mexico's past, and a lot of people who harbor a bias will probably try. But if you really think about it, if you really have an open mind toward this, I think you will probably came to the same conclusion-that Mexico, is paradise.