As I watched the Fourth of July fireworks, I wondered where the United States is heading. Where will we be in 20 or 30 years? Recalling history, I think of the many countries and civilizations that have risen to greatness and later declined: Greece, Rome, the Incas and Spain, to name a few.

We seem to be on a precipice and can go either way. But there are things we can do to continue our ascent. Our form of government does not need to be abandoned but strengthened. To do this, we must educate each citizen in the elements of democracy and how to participate in government. We must think more of our country and its people and less of ourselves. We must select people to govern our towns, cities, states and nation who are intent on the greater good and not themselves. Term limits and encouraging young people to run for office would be a good start.

In international relations, we should support countries that share our principles. We should respect what people and countries do as long as it does not hurt the lives of others. We must recognize that we are not always correct in our own thoughts and actions, and we do make mistakes.

If we can consider what is good — not only for us but for all people — I believe our country will remain a leader in the world.

Francis Kleeman, MD
Kennebunk