What Do You Believe In?

 

Someone asked me what I believe in,

and whether I’m “for” Republicans or Democrats.

So here's my answer, for better or worse,

This is the truth of it.

I don’t fit neatly into either box,

And I probably never have.

I grew up believing in the American Dream,

the kind you reach for with both hands...

and a little hope.

I’ve lived long enough to see wars

That didn’t feel right or just,

and watched this country argue with itself

more times than I can count.

But I’ve also seen the best of us.

America has always been a melting pot to me,

a place where the Statue of Liberty

still means something.

My own ancestors came here chasing a promise,

And I haven’t forgotten about that.

My loyalty isn’t to a party,

And it surely isn’t to a politician.

I'm loyal to ideals,

the kind you carry quietly,

the kind that shape how you treat people.

I believe immigration should be legal

and orderly.

I believe the law should treat us all the same,

I believe in education,

in honest work,

And in the strength of community.

And I believe in the Constitution

and I believe in our democracy;

I believe these hold us together

when the storms of war roll in.

So that’s my political reality,

As simply as I can say it.

It's what I've always believed in,

And that's the truth of it.