Levine: We must respect our historic heritage
This Independence Day, I'm reminded of having the honor to hear historian David McCullough speak with passion and persuasion.
The two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, who turns 84 on July 7, is the author of numerous books including "1776," "John Adams" and "Truman." He captivated his audience with keen insights and compelling messages about the vital link we all have to our individual and collective past.
Among McCullough’s key points were a “declaration of dependence” on the lessons we must learn from those who preceded us. “Everything we have in our culture, all cultures, is the result of someone leading the way for us, paving the path to an uncertain but inevitable future. By documenting the thoughts, deeds and determination of people who preceded us we learn how to become the people we need to be.”
McCullough spoke eloquently about the importance of writing as an exercise in higher thought.
He decried the retreat from the arts in our educational institutions and expressed his sincere concern that our cultural heritage cannot withstand a generation of neglect, for it may never be recaptured.
Please consider these suggestions, rooted in the messages I heard from David McCullough:
1. Keep a journal, writing perceptions, observations and creative thoughts, with entries at least a few times per week.
2. Share family history with loved ones by creating a remembrances album, highlighting the names and key reflections on those who preceded us. Sharing special stories will give the younger generation the gift of recollection and belonging.
3. Write letters and cards to family and friends whom we rarely see. While e-mail is convenient, an actual hand written letter is a rare and cherished gift of personal contact across the miles.
4. Schedule trips to historic sites and learn about the era, the events, and the significance of the place.
5. Visit museums and absorb the artistic and cultural offerings on display to nurture an appreciation for the diversity that is human creation.
6. Advocate for a cause by expressing your opinion to elected officials who represent us. This nation was founded on the promise of representative government, and each of us has the opportunity and obligation to exercise our right to free speech.
7. Thank teachers for their dedication and support quality education by advocating a diverse curriculum that spans all the arts, civic and cultural subjects our children need to be truly educated. The love of learning is truly one of humanity's essential attributes.
8. Read more literature, poetry and history, and give children the tools they need to better use their time in activities which stimulate their brains and build healthier bodies.
9. Visit with a neighbor, if just for a few minutes, to offer a friendly word and share a sense of connection and community.
10. Dedicate yourself to be a positive force for others — and the rewards will be bountiful.
By respecting our historic heritage we invest wisely in our civic future.