In the quiet solitude of my family room, I find myself reflecting on the life of my beloved mother-in-law, Peggy, and the parallel journey of my nation, America. As Peggy's health deteriorates, I can't help but draw parallels to the state of our country, where the cancer of illiberalism has taken hold, threatening the very essence of our liberal democracy.
America, at 250 years old, has had its fair share of challenges. From its founding in genocide and the institutionalization of slavery to its brutal mercantilism and persistent authoritarianism, the nation has never been free of flaws. Yet, the American ideal of liberalism has been a beacon of hope, guiding the nation towards progress and justice. For 240 years, the arc of our political history has bent towards liberalism, offering a sense of optimism and possibility.
However, the current moment is different. America is not more unjust or illiberal today than it was in the past; in fact, we have regressed. The surge towards illiberalism is not born of hardship or privation but of tranquility and wealth. This is a unique and unsettling development, as it challenges the very foundations of our nation's identity and values.
One might argue that America is exceptional, possessing a secret sauce for liberalism. But the reality is that democratic backsliding is prevalent in the modern world. From Germany to Nicaragua, Czechoslovakia to the Philippines, and even in post-Soviet democracies like Russia and Belarus, the rise of authoritarian leadership has been a disturbing trend. This is not an isolated phenomenon, and it demands our attention and action.
As Peggy's vigil continues, I find myself questioning the very idea of American exceptionalism. Perhaps it is time to embrace a more realistic and humble perspective, recognizing that the triumph of liberalism is not inevitable. We must confront the possibility that the hour is late, and the America we knew and loved may be passing. But even in the face of this reality, we must live and struggle, for that is the essence of life itself.
In the end, the vigil for Peggy and the vigil for our liberal democracy are intertwined. As we navigate the challenges of the present, we must find the courage to fight for the values that define us. For in the struggle, we find purpose, meaning, and the possibility of a brighter future. And that, perhaps, is the ultimate tribute to the life of Peggy and the legacy of America.
