Be Thankful For Four Things Americans Agree On

In an era when the media paints America as a hopelessly divided nation, there are a number of social and cultural issues where there is near unanimous agreement.  As it turns out, these areas where Americans find consensus are the things that unite us as one nation.

Therefore, if you are searching for something to be grateful for this Thanksgiving, here are at least four reasons to feel better about these United States:

(Editor's Note:  All the statistics used in this column were gleaned from Pew Research polling reports from 2007 through 2014.)

America is a highly religious nation:  Ninety percent of the people profess they believe in God. Eight in ten claim they never doubt God's existence.  A surprising 76 percent say prayer is an important part of their daily life.  Large percentages of Americans agree about many religious beliefs and behaviors.  That is not to suggest that faith is not under attack in America.  Courts have forced crosses to be torn down in public places, mandated the removal of the Ten Commandments from buildings and banned the use of prayer in certain venues. Despite this legal aggression supported by a secular media, Americans have refused to give up their practice of religion or to reject God.  In times of crisis, such as when the country was ruthlessly attacked on September 11th, Americans found shelter in their churches with fellow worshipers.  They steadfastly cling to the old-fashioned notion that God watches over their country.  It is comforting to live in a country of believers, even if our religious practices may differ.  What is important is that God maintains a prominent place in American life.

Americans are proud of their military.  More than eight in 10 Americans have a favorable opinion of the armed forces.  In large numbers (78%), Americans believe that the members of the military contribute "a lot" to society's well being.  In fact, in a survey of 10 occupational groups, American service members come out on top, beating clergy, medical doctors, teachers and scientists, to name a few. Interestingly, the occupational group that has suffered the biggest decline in prestige since the surveys began in 2009 is journalists.  No surprise there.  By contrast, Americans of every political stripe have always held high opinions of the military.  That should not be taken for granted because in many countries the military are often viewed disparagingly.  Because Americans support their service men and women, the military has always been a force to unite the country.  There is nothing as stirring as watching average Americans applaud as service members board a plane, or stroll through an airport or pass in review.

Americans are patriotic.  Popular culture would suggest patriotism is a quaint idea that no longer matters.  However, for more than 20 years, surveys have found an overwhelming number of Americans consider themselves patriotic.  The figure has held steady at 90 percent since 1987.  Sixty-two percent of Americans display the flag at their homes, in their office or on their car.  This brand of American patriotism is not only responsible for the largest volunteer military in the country's history, but it motivates ordinary citizens in ways that are often overlooked.  Pride in country leads to extending a helping hand to neighbors, showing up at the polls, volunteering to clean up a river, standing up for good government and supporting the building of more schools.  In countries where patriotism lags, people tend to be more invested in their day-to-day survival with little time or incentive to do something for the good of others.  That's why patriotism matters.

Americans believe hard works pays off.   Among all nations, the United States stands out as the country where most people believe the key to getting ahead in life is hard work.  Almost eight in ten (73%) Americans, are convinced hard work leads to a better future. Perhaps, you think this is true of all people around the world.  Not so.  In Greece, only 21 per cent of the citizens think hard work benefits people.  No wonder Greece is bankrupt and unemployment stands in double-digits.  And other Europeans share the Greeks' sentiment. Italians and French also pooh-pooh the idea of hard work.  They believe that knowing the right people is crucial to getting ahead in life.  The work ethic of the American worker is legendary.  Coupled with American ingenuity, it is the reason Americans are more productive, more efficient and more motivated.  As a result, American workers enjoy a higher standard of living than their counterparts in other countries.

This Thanksgiving celebrate the things that make America unique. They are the glue that binds us together through good times and bad. May we always live in a nation that honors God, supports its military, takes pride in country and works hard to forge a better future.