Our Better Angels

Steward Beckham
2 min readApr 28, 2021
Patterson Park is a neighborhood in Baltimore and it borders the 137-acre park where this flag stands tall.

There have been so many emotions and opinions in the last few years and that’s always going to be the case. But America must heal. This nation is that city on a hill with a larger calling. We have to set a standard for the world.

Our multiculturalism is a sign of a dynamic history that brought populations together from around the world in search of larger humanistic freedoms at a time when industrial aristocracies gained power and influence all over the globe.

Our pretension for business and commerce is a sign of how we molded communities and traditions to build this nation while also facilitating people’s ability to gain from their hard work and dedication.

Our rich history starts with how we are descendants of the traditions and customs of the different Native American tribes who hold the longest and deepest connection to the land we all inhabit.

Over time we have all made this land our home. We continue to transcend traditional understandings and divisions to celebrate a diverse and modern society. We have ancestors who served and fought honorably abroad and at home to crystalize true freedom.

But most importantly, we have developed a love for people. Traveling across the country allows one to meet so many different people. Love is a powerful emotion, and America is at its best when we recognize our love for human nature’s dynamism and unique history.

These are our better angels.

My sister and I attended Maryland football games from the Baltimore Ravens to the Naval Academy. Despite being a brutal sport, the celebration of Maryland and America always left an indelible mark on me. The community came together.

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